How to Become a CNA

How to Apply for CNA Programs, What to Expect, and Why It’s a Great Career Choice

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are crucial healthcare workers who provide direct care to patients in a variety of settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health care. CNAs work under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to support the medical team and ensure that patients receive proper care. If you’re considering a career in healthcare, but want to get started with a relatively short and accessible training program, becoming a CNA may be the ideal choice for you. This guide will walk you through the steps to apply for CNA programs, what to expect during the training, how to pay for it, and why becoming a CNA is a rewarding and impactful career choice.

What Does a CNA Do?

A CNA performs essential duties that directly contribute to the well-being of patients. While the responsibilities may vary depending on the work environment, CNAs generally carry out the following tasks:

• Personal Care: CNAs assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and toileting.
• Monitoring Vital Signs: CNAs regularly check and record patients’ vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rate.
• Assisting with Mobility: CNAs help patients move from beds to chairs, assist with walking, and help patients with exercises to maintain their mobility and physical health.
• Providing Comfort and Emotional Support: CNAs offer emotional support, ensuring that patients are comfortable and providing companionship, especially for those in long-term care settings.
• Assisting with Medical Procedures: While CNAs do not administer medications, they may assist nurses with basic medical procedures such as taking blood samples, changing bandages, or helping with physical therapy routines.
• Maintaining Patient Records: CNAs document patient information such as vital signs, changes in condition, and details of daily care. They relay important updates to the rest of the healthcare team.
• Ensuring Patient Safety: CNAs follow safety protocols, including proper infection control measures and safe patient-handling techniques to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment for patients and staff.

Step 1: Research CNA Training Programs

Before applying to CNA programs, it’s important to do thorough research to find a program that best fits your needs. Here are key factors to consider when evaluating CNA programs:

• Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or other recognized accrediting organizations. Accreditation ensures the program meets national standards for nursing education, and that you will be prepared for the certification exam.
• Program Length: CNA programs typically take between 4 to 12 weeks to complete. Programs that include part-time or evening classes may take longer but offer greater flexibility for students who need to balance work or family obligations.
• Content of the Program: CNA programs offer both classroom-based learning and clinical training. Key topics covered include basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, infection control, patient care, and medical ethics. Clinical training is typically conducted in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare settings, where students gain hands-on experience with real patients.
• State Requirements: CNA training programs must meet the specific requirements set by the state in which you plan to work. These requirements may vary, so check with your state’s Board of Nursing for details on what you need to complete in order to be eligible for certification.
• Location: Consider whether you want to attend a program locally or if you are willing to relocate for a school. Some schools may offer online or hybrid programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical hours.

Step 2: Meet Basic Requirements

To apply for a CNA program, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Although these requirements can vary between schools, the following are common prerequisites:

• Age: Most CNA programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old, though some programs may accept 16- or 17-year-olds with parental consent.
• Education: You need a high school diploma or GED to apply for most programs. Some programs may require additional coursework, such as basic math, science, or health-related classes.
• Physical Health: CNAs must be able to lift, move, and assist patients, which requires physical stamina. Some programs may ask for a physical exam to confirm that you are physically capable of performing the essential tasks of the role.
• Criminal Background Check: Most programs require a criminal background check. Some felonies or criminal convictions may disqualify you from entering a CNA program, depending on your state’s regulations.
• Immunization and Health Screening: Many programs require proof of immunizations (such as TB tests, flu shots, or MMR vaccinations) before you start clinical training. This ensures that both you and your patients are protected from infections.

Step 3: Apply to CNA Programs

Once you’ve identified a CNA program that meets your needs and that you’re eligible for, you can start the application process. Here are the typical steps involved in applying for CNA training:

• Complete the Application: You will need to fill out an application form, which is usually available online or at the school’s admissions office. The application may ask for your personal details, educational background, and reasons for wanting to become a CNA.
• Submit Transcripts: Most programs require you to submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED transcript. If you’ve completed any college or other vocational courses, those transcripts may also be required.
• Provide References: Some CNA programs ask for letters of recommendation. These may come from teachers, employers, or healthcare professionals who can speak to your character and qualifications.
• Take an Entrance Exam: Some schools may require an entrance exam that tests basic skills in reading, math, and science. Be sure to review the program’s requirements for exams before applying.
• Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the application process. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the field and your commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare.

Step 4: Complete Your CNA Training

After you’re accepted into a CNA program, you will begin both classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s what you can expect:

Classroom Learning

The classroom portion of your CNA training will include theoretical lessons on topics such as:

• Basic Nursing Skills: Learn the foundational nursing skills needed for patient care, including how to take vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse), assist with mobility, and perform daily activities such as feeding and dressing.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Gain a basic understanding of the human body and its systems. This knowledge is essential for understanding patient care and communicating with the healthcare team.
• Infection Control: Learn how to prevent and control the spread of infections through proper hygiene, sterilization practices, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Medical Terminology: Study the medical terms and abbreviations used in healthcare settings so you can effectively communicate with other healthcare professionals.
• Patient Safety: Understand the safety procedures for both patients and caregivers, including safe patient handling and preventing falls or other injuries.
• Communication Skills: Learn how to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members, ensuring patients’ needs are met in a compassionate and respectful manner.

Clinical Training

The clinical portion of your CNA training is hands-on and takes place in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, nursing home, or clinic. During clinical training, you will apply the skills you’ve learned in the classroom under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals. Here’s what to expect during clinical hours:

• Assisting with Patient Care: Work directly with patients, assisting them with activities such as bathing, eating, dressing, and moving.
• Monitoring Vital Signs: Take and record patient vital signs, including blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration rate.
• Documenting Care: Practice documenting patient information accurately in medical records and communicating changes in patient condition to the healthcare team.
• Assisting with Nursing Procedures: You may help nurses with basic procedures such as changing dressings or assisting with physical therapy.

Step 5: Obtain Certification

After completing your CNA training, you must pass a certification exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. The certification process generally includes the following steps:

• Pass the Competency Exam: The CNA certification exam typically consists of two parts: a written test covering theoretical knowledge and a practical skills test where you demonstrate your ability to perform specific nursing tasks.
• Apply for State Certification: After passing the exam, you will need to apply for certification with your state’s regulatory board, which may involve submitting proof of your completed training and passing the exam.
• Maintain Certification: Many states require CNAs to complete continuing education and renew their certification every two years. Requirements for renewal may include taking additional courses or passing a competency test.

How to Pay for CNA Programs

The cost of CNA training can vary significantly depending on the school, location, and length of the program. Here are some ways to pay for your CNA education:

• Financial Aid: Many schools offer financial aid options, including federal loans, grants, and scholarships. Be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine if you qualify for financial assistance.
• Employer Assistance: Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to employees who want to become CNAs. If you’re already working in a healthcare facility, ask your employer about available programs.
• Scholarships: Look for scholarships specifically for CNA students. Local organizations, healthcare providers, and community groups may offer funding opportunities to help cover tuition costs.
• Veterans Benefits: If you are a military veteran, you may be eligible for education benefits through the GI Bill to help pay for CNA training.

Why Becoming a CNA Is a Great Career Choice

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive career path for many people:

• High Demand for CNAs: The healthcare industry is growing rapidly, and the demand for CNAs continues to rise. As the population ages and more people require long-term care, the need for CNAs in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care will only increase.
• Job Stability: Healthcare is one of the most stable industries, providing job security for CNAs. Many healthcare employers are seeking qualified CNAs, and job opportunities are expected to grow in the coming years.
• Competitive Salary: While CNAs earn less than Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), the median salary for CNAs is still competitive. The median annual wage for CNAs in the U.S. is around $30,000, with potential for higher earnings based on experience, location, and additional certifications.
• Opportunity for Career Growth: Many CNAs go on to further their education and become LPNs or RNs, opening up additional opportunities for career advancement, increased responsibility, and higher pay.
• Job Satisfaction: Working as a CNA can be incredibly rewarding, as you directly impact patients’ lives by providing comfort and care. CNAs form strong relationships with patients and their families, making this a fulfilling and compassionate profession.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant is an excellent choice for those who want to enter the healthcare field quickly and begin making a positive impact on patients’ lives. With a relatively short training period and numerous job opportunities in various healthcare settings, a CNA career offers both stability and personal fulfillment. By carefully choosing the right CNA program, completing your training, and passing your certification exam, you can launch a rewarding career in the healthcare industry and contribute to the well-being of others.