CNA training is necessary and growing for certified nursing assistants. These jobs are projected to grow by 19 percent between 2008 and 2018 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As CNAs are hired in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, mental health centers, and assisted living facilities to assist patients with daily living tasks, they will most be in demand at residential (home health) and assisted living facilities due to the rise in elderly patients needing long-term care. In order for CNAs to work under the supervision of licensed practical nurses or registered nurses, they must meet certain federal and state requirements as reviewed.
Requirements, Length, Location, and Cost of Training
A high school diploma is the minimum requirement to become a CNA. While federal law requires that a CNA training program include at least 75 classroom/laboratory and clinical hours at a state-approved school, individual states often require a higher number of hours. A nurse aide competency test is required after training to become certified and to be included in one's "State Registry of Nurse Aides". Varying among states, formal training lasts between three weeks to four months. It is offered by high schools, community colleges, and vocational schools as well as rehabilitation facilities and nursing care facilities who often offer free training in exchange for working at the company immediately afterward for a contractual period of time. Training at a community college costs around $600 for a three-week CNA program. In addition, a more flexible formal education alternative is online training. The best online CNA programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) that requires clinical training at a local healthcare facility and allows students to transfer their credits. Further, newly-hired CNAs frequently receive on-the-job training that is either one-on-one training with a nurse or classroom training.
Training Curriculum
The curriculum of formal CNA training includes the subjects of anatomy and physiology, nutrition, personal hygiene/grooming, infection control, communication skills, and patient rights. CNAs are also trained in observing and recording emotional, mental, and physical conduct of patients; safely transporting patients by foot or in vehicles; monitoring vital signs and blood glucose; assisting patients in daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and exercising; serving meals to patients; and cleaning patients' rooms. In addition, CNAs who receive training in specialties such as mental health learn to lead patients in educational and recreational activities. They are referred to as Psychiatric Aides, Psychiatric Nursing Assistants, or Mental Health Assistants. Other CNA specialties include Operating Room and Hospice.
On final note, in order to succeed in the profession of a CNA, one must have strengths of emotional stability, responsibility, effective communication skills, problem-solving skills, and patience. Also, one must meet the physical requirements of having the ability to lift heavy weight and passing a TB skin test. Having a combination of the skills, strengths, and physical abilities that have been reviewed are necessary for CNAs to fulfill the critical role of working in close contact with patients. It is also important for students to research state and employer CNA requirements as they vary nationwide. After training for and working in entry-level jobs, CNAs have the options of furthering their education to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs).
Source
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook. (2009, Dec). Nursing and Psychiatric Aides.