If you wish to perform as an entry-level nursing aide in a long-term care facility, you should get certified because Certification proves that you have understood and acquired necessary nursing knowledge and skills for safe and competent care. The primary steps that could lead to Certification include successful completion of the state-approved CNA Classes, and competency evaluation examination. These conditions are also the Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA-87) mandated standards for evaluating nursing care competencies of nursing assistants. The completion of these requirements also ensures that nurse aides have met Federal nursing care standards for safeguarding public health and welfare.
CNA Classes
Nurse Aide classes are state-approved training programs. The training curriculum is designed for training individuals in nursing knowledge, abilities, and skills. The course curriculum is prepared as per the OBRA and national standards. The training program features supervised classroom theoretical instructions, lab training, and clinical hands-on experience. The faculty of training must be a registered nurse who has minimum two years nursing and nursing care experiences in long-term care units and other health care facilities. The length of the program should be minimum 75-hour, divided between classroom instructions and physical training. However, the length of the program in many states exceed OBRA requirements and individuals must complete 100-150 hours nurse aide training in these states. The trainings are offered in schools and colleges, technical institutes, adult education centers, online classes, American Red Cross classes, and long-term care facilities. The deserving students can also apply for State and Federal Scholarships, Grants, and private party loans for their tuition and examination fees.
CNA Exam
Nursing Assistant Exam evaluates competencies of prospective nurse aides who aim to perform in the healthcare facilities. The exam includes two separate and independent sections: Oral or Knowledge Test, and Skills Test. The exam questions should meet the national knowledge and skills standards and guidance as defined in OBRA-87. Few States develop and administer their own nursing assistant exams, but many states have contracted national testing agencies like Pearson VUE, Prometric, and D & S Headmasters for developing, administering, and scoring CNA exams. The state of Indiana has authorized Ivy Tech Community College to administer competency evaluation exams. The candidates need to pass both Knowledge and Skills tests to get eligible for a Certification.
However, there are also few additional requirements that must be completed by the applicants for Certification eligibility. The applicants should be at least 16 to 18 years of age, possess a High School Diploma or GED, free from criminal convictions, and pass the screening test for communicable diseases, drug abuse, and chemical dependencies.
The completion of these prerequisites make them eligible for CNA certification and they are also permitted to perform legally in varied health care settings.
You can also visit Certification page for additional information on certification renewal, transfer, benefits, verification, re-certification and other details.
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