subject: Embarking on a CNA Program for Rewarding Career [print this page] Embarking on a CNA Program for Rewarding Career
There are various ways in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant or CNA. In a CNA program, there are many varied courses to complete before sitting for the CNA examinations.
Different routes
One easy path to a CNA program would be the local Community college. Besides that, a vocational college may offer your desired CNA program. If these are not available in your home town or close to your vicinity, consider the professional health care providers such as hospitals or training clinics. Some Red Cross societies also offer their venues for some CNA programs and training as these are short courses.
Alternatively, there are online CNA programs which you can consider but do check out if these online or correspondences courses are recognized by the state or relevant health care authorities.
Recognition by Authorities
There are many CNA programs offered in the nation itself but different states have different requirements, although most CNA programs have certain core or main features which must be successfully completed before sitting for the state-specific CNA exams. These CNA programs are nationally formulated as well as regulated with input from different states' nursing regulation committees or boards.
Hence, besides the core features, different state-offered CNA programs will vary even from institution to institution. Other factors of the CNA program like cost, duration, contents and materials may also differ.
CNA Training
In a CNA program, there will be theory as well as practical training. Hence, it is essential to attend the relevant classes for a good understanding of the theory before implementing it in your practical. Many programs make it a requirement to supplement your classroom learning with on-the-job training where you get to apply what you have learned in the classroom in the actual job environment. Hence, there will be some part-time postings at health care providers' facilities such as the Red Cross.
For the practical work, there will be frequent occasions where the trainee CNA would need to work with a partner or in a group. Thus, working well with others will enhance your skills as a nursing assistant. Learning can also come in instructional videos to better understand what the real life demands are to prepare yourself for such incidences when you are in the field.
CNA Program Costs
A typical CNA program may cost you up to $1500 in terms of tuition fees; there may be some financial assistance or scholarships from the state or health care organizations which you can apply for. Some practical may require you to incur extra costs for the equipment and usage of facility. Hence, you should check out all hidden or extra cost that may be imposed on your chosen CNA program that will fit your budget and requirements.
CNA Program test
Prepare well for the exams to get the certification that you have worked so hard for. There is the theory section where you are tested on procedure knowledge and the practical section for evaluation on handling real life situations.
