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CNA Programs

CNA Programs

There are a lot of CNA programs because they are not heavily regulated. In fact, future students are often surprised to learn that there is no federal regulation which means that you just have to comply with your state guidelines. CNA Programs can take several months to complete but there are fast track programs available that allow the work to be done in as few as four weeks. This will give you a great start to passing your state certification requirements.


CNA Classes

What are General Requirements for CNA Programs

There are no nationwide standards. However, many states have similar guidelines. Here are five questions to ask about your state.

  • Age
    • With almost no exceptions, states tend to fall into three categories with respect to age
      • 16 and over
      • 18 and over
      • No stated age requirement
  • Education
    • While an RN will usually require at least an associates degree, CNA programs have fewer requirements.
      • Some states require a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
      • Other states have no educational requirements at all.
  • Program
    • Every state requires some sort of test for certification
    • However, there are a few states that do not require a program beforehand, although it is generally still a good idea.
    • You will be required to pass a knowledge and skills portion, so make sure to select a program that covers both
  • Criminal Background
    • A mistake in your past might not prohibit you from becoming a CNA but most states have some restrictions on at least some crimes. If this applies to you, be sure to check with your state before attempting to embark on a new career.
  • Fingerprint
    • Some states require you complete a livescan of your fingerprints
  • Immunization

 

What CNA Classes You Will Take

While CNA Programs can vary by state, there are some similarities that you find in most places. This article will look at the common curriculum for CNA programs. Use this as a rough guide before you start your journey and then when you find a program you are considering, request information from them about the classes you will take. The tool below allows you to search for a CNA Program in your area.

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Common subjects in your CNA Programs

LINCS, which is connected with several government educational organizations has put out the following 11 topics that should be covered:

(1) Introduction

(2) Safe and Clean

(3) Communication

(4) Basic Needs

(5) Personal Care

(6) Activity and Exercise

(7) Foods and Fluids

(8) Elimination

(9) Vital Signs

(10) Special Procedure

(11) Mental Health.

Sample CNA Program Courses

To provide you with a more realistic picture, we have included sample classes from three of the most popular states. Again, you will find variations from state to state and even program to program, but the same core subjects will be covered by anyone as they are crucial to complete the job.

CNA Classes in California

Module 1: Introduction to Nurse Assistant
Module 2: Patient/Resident Rights
Module 3: Communication/Interpersonal Skills
Module 4: Prevention and Management of Catastrophe and Unusual Occurrences
Module 5: Body Mechanics
Module 6: Medical and Surgical Asepsis
Module 7: Weights and Measures
Module 8: Patient Care Skills
Module 9: Patient Care Procedures
Module 10: Vital Signs
Module 11: Nutrition
Module 12: Emergency Procedures
Module 13: Long Term Care Patient/Resident 
Module 14: Rehabilitative Nursing
Module 15: Observation and Charting
Module 16: Death and Dying
Module 17: Patient/Resident Abuse

CNA Classes in Texas

CNA Classes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CNA Classes in Illinois

  1. Patient/Resident Rights
  2. The Role & Responsibilities of the Health Care Team
  3. Legal Issues for Nursing Staff pertaining to the CNA
  4. Medical Terminology
  5. Infection Control
  6. Medical Unit Environment -Safety & Proper Body Mechanics
  7. Emergencies: CPR Certification
  8. Communication Skills
  9. Documentation Skills
  10. Patient Care: Vital Signs, bathing, dressing, moving patients, feeding, oral care, grooming skills, patient room upkeep

 

Conclusion

Remember: CNA Programs vary by state and by program. Only use this information as a starting point. When looking at a program, always ask for their curriculum. If you’d like more information on becoming a CNA, then consider the following resources:

Background Information on CNA Programs

Understanding the CNA Job

Understanding CNA Salary

Or, start your search for a program that works best for you:

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