Step-By-Step Guide to CNA Certification

If you've decided to become a Certified Nurse's Assistant, it's time to take the appropriate steps towards achieving your desire. Here is a step-by-step guide of how to make sure you cover all your bases and achieve your CNA certification.
Choosing a Program Because there are so many options for training programs, it may be a daunting task choosing one.

Doing some research on your state's certification requirements will help you narrow your list.

Also consider your personal preferences.
There are many variables to consider: cost, education level, learning environment.

Decide what you want and what you need because you will most likely have to compromise on some level.

This is not always the case, as there are many different options, so you may luck out and get to be picky with your choice.
Enrolling After you've found the best program, it's time to sign up. For online courses, this usually requires very little besides some contact information and access to the internet.

For other courses, there can be more requirements. For example, if you choose to take classes through the American Red Cross, there will be options for the type of class you take.
Determine your schedule in advance to find which program best suits your needs.
Allow time for travel and some extra money in case there are additional class materials.
If enrolling is the step you are struggling with most, there are services that will help you plan and achieve your goals.

For positions working with the state, call the County Jobs and Family Services office for your county or get in touch with your state's Nurse's Aide Registry.

Even the American Red Cross provides a toll free number to offer guidance.

Studying This is the part of the process that will require the most work.
Studying for the certification test can be stressful, but it is the most important aspect of receiving your CNA, as you must earn the right to help people.
Without the proper comfort-level with the knowledge base that is expected of you, you cannot perform your duties.

Take more time than you need on this portion of the process.

You cannot study too much.
Taking the Test There are regularly scheduled certification tests in countless locations. There are community colleges, hospitals, community centers, and health-care facilities that provide the certification test.
You should complete your CNA training before you attempt to take one of them, as this type of attempt to save time will actually be a waste of time.

To maximize efficiency, treat the first test as your last.
Prepare for it as if failure were not an option. Choose a location that is convenient, but verify that they are a credible institution capable of providing certification.

After you pass your test, you will become a state certified CNA.