A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become certified nursing assistants. CNAs play a vital role in patient care, working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The training includes both classroom education and practical clinical experience.
Classroom Education
In the classroom, students learn about various essential topics, such as:
- Basic nursing skills
- Anatomy and physiology
- Nutrition
- Infection control
- Medical terminology
- Patient rights and ethics
- Communication skills
Clinical Experience
Hands-on clinical training takes place in healthcare settings like hospitals, nursing homes, or long-term care facilities. During this phase, students practice under the guidance of licensed nurses, performing tasks such as:
- Taking vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration)
- Assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and feeding
- Transferring and positioning patients
- Observing and reporting changes in patient conditions
- Practicing infection control measures
Certification Exam
After completing the training program, aspiring CNAs must pass a state-specific certification exam. This exam typically has two parts:
- A written or oral test that assesses knowledge of CNA duties and healthcare concepts.
- A practical skills test where candidates demonstrate their ability to perform certain nursing tasks in front of an evaluator.
Continuing Education
To maintain certification, CNAs might need to complete continuing education courses. These courses help CNAs stay current with the latest practices and developments in healthcare.
CNA training programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, healthcare facilities, and sometimes high schools. The length of these programs varies but generally ranges from 4 to 12 weeks. Successfully completing a CNA training program and earning certification opens doors to employment in various healthcare settings, where CNAs provide essential support to patients and healthcare teams.