subject: How To Become A Cna [print this page] Being a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) is a career that many individuals choose due to its track record for requiring a reasonably shorter certification period. Don't believe us? Take a look at CNA programs in your area. You will be shocked at how fast and easy it can be to lock in a great career in such little time. On the flip side, when you pass the CNA certification exam, this does not always guarantee a job right out of school. Most of the time, hospitals will not hire a person just because they hold a certification. Quite often, hospitals require on-the-job training to be completed prior to allowing a CNA to perform duties without being supervised. In some cases, the hospital training period is accompanied with training pay which may be less than the standard salary for a certified nursing assistant. Don't let the training period dissuade you. Use your training to acquire on the job skills allowing you come out hitting the ground running and requiring minimal supervision.
Related Coursework
In order to pass the class-based program, it's essential to complete ALL of the required coursework. This type of classroom training isusually divided into two (or sometimes three) coursework-related sections. Generally, a student is required to complete 40 hours of non-technical coursework, which includes basic training in science.
Length of Courses
A course duration varies based in length. This is dependent on the frequency and time-schedule of the classes. Most training courses aredesigned to be either a six-week program or a full semester. The length of the training course depends almost entirely on the student. Full-time courses are ideal for students that wish to complete their training in a short period of time. Part-time courses are more convenient for students and individuals with obligations such as children or working part-time.
Obtaining CNA Certification
After the class based course is complete, the student is strongly suggested to take the CNA certification exam. This exam is traditionally given by an association that has a national recognition in the medical field and is accredited. There is currently just one organization that can issue CNA Certification. In order to obtain CNA Certification you must pass the National Nurse Aid Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
I passed and I'm holding my certificate in my hand. Now what?
Google is your friend! Search for jobs on google in your area. Call hospitals. Be persistent! You will find a job sooner than you think.
On-the-Job Training
Many hospitals require you to complete several hours of on-the-job training before you are able to work at their hospital. This is also training that may be proposed to current employees of the hospital, in order to give them the opportunity to increase their knowledge about being a Certified Nursing Assistant. Many hospitals do this in order to maximise theusefulness of their current staff. CNA Certification is essential if you want to get your foot in the door!
