how long, and how can I become a cna.

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Jan 17, 2014

thread moved for best reponse

righteousjenn · Jan 17, 2014

I actually applied to nursing school for Fall 2014, but the other day I decided to apply to a CNA program to pass the time. In CA, the program that I'm enrolled in, is only 9 weeks. I've watched some videos on youtube where they took a one week or even a one day class. you should look around your local community colleges and see if they have a program... I would seek one out that is a few weeks and offers a clinical portion because you will be tested on your skill to get a certificate.

skzfoz · Jan 20, 2014

It seems as though most programs through schools are 1 semester long and the age requirement probably depends on location but I've seen 16 listed as minimum.

mvm2 · Jan 21, 2014

Look around in your area for those that carry CNA courses. Many schools, but some LTC and Home Care agencies may offer these classes as well. I took mine with a Home Health Agency that I work at. It was a 6 week course. Check with your state to see what age you need to be each states has their own rules on this.

Tinkk · Jan 21, 2014

Community colleges usually offer classes, so does the American Red Cross, but some LTC facilities have courses you can take as well. I've heard some nursing homes/assisted livings have hired people and then trained them on the job, and then they would have to get certified within a certain amount of time. I'm personally going to take a CNA class in community ed at some public high school I live close to. How long it takes depends on the program, but it lasts on average about a month. I've heard it can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks though. I would look into that and see if a 17 year old can get classes - there may be a minimum age requirement. Some nursing homes will hire employees under 18, but a lot of them require you to be at least that. If you do get hired at 17, there will probably be some restrictions...a nursing home that I live by hires 17 year olds, but they are not allowed to operate mechanical lifts (that's about it though). The other nursing home that I work at now (I'm in the kitchen) requires you to be at least 18 to work as a CNA no matter what. You will need to check different nursing home policies and state regulations.