Requirements for Earning a CNA Certificate

CNAs (certified nursing assistants) are also referred to as nursing assistants or nurses aides. Most training programs last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months and merge classroom work with hands-on training, but definite training requirements vary from one state to another. The demand for CNAs is likely to grow because of the rising numbers of elderly persons in society. There are a lot of openings for work in various health-care environments.
 
I Have a CNA Certificate, Now What?
Whether you end up working in a rest home, retirement village, home health agency or other healthcare facility, as a CNA you will work under the supervision of nurses and doctors. Everyday jobs such as bathing patients, combing their hair and helping them eat are done by the CNA, who also tests patients’ vital signs. CNAs handle the setting up and moving of medical equipment and supplies and are also needed to convey patients from their beds to a wheelchair or gurney. Clearing bedpans and making beds might also be part of the job. In some cases CNAs must observe the patient's psychological well being and communicate their conclusions to a registered nurse or a doctor.

Requirements to Attain a CNA Certificate
Besides a high school diploma or GED, would-be CNAs most undertake a short course made up of class work and practical instruction known as "clinicals." The majority of programs are accessible through community colleges; nursing homes and other long term care facilities, although the exact requirements differ from state to state. Students must sit an examination to become qualified at the conclusion of the course. Most training courses call for no less than seventy-five hours of classroom instruction and sixteen hours of clinicals.
 
Specific Courses for CNA Certification
Most training programs comprise four to five modules, though the classes taken may differ to some extent between the various schools. For instance, the CNA course at Alamance Community College in Graham, N.C., teaches subjects such as essential nursing skills, home safety and diet, in addition to physical, psychological and emotional changes in senior citizens. Other courses may teach subjects such as medical jargon, anatomy and complementary medicine.

Personal Qualities Needed
A CNA must have some unique traits, both interpersonal and physical. CNAs must be physically able to lift patients and be on the go for long periods of time. They also need to show empathy and a real yearning to assist the people in their care. Understanding, tolerance and wit are also essential in order to do well on the job. CNAs must also know how to keep superior personal relationships, since they have a large amount of patient contact.

The Future of CNA Nursing
The demand for CNAs may outdo that for other careers because of an aging population. CNA experience is a superb springboard for additional training as a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.