A CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) is a primary care giver in nursing homes and hospitals. The also may have the option of working independently, for example as a home health aide. CNAs work under the supervision of nurses, assisting patients with daily living activities and collecting basic vital measurements, for example body weight and blood pressure.
Becoming a certified nursing assistant has many benefits, foremost is that you can obtain your credentials quickly and inexpensively. While many schools offer fairly expensive courses from six months to a year, it may be possible for you to become a CNA in as little as six weeks if you have the aptitude and motivation. Some states, e.g. Florida, allow you to "challenge" the state's CNA certification exam, given certain conditions, without attending any formal state-approved training class. Of course, this is recommended for those who can learn quickly, or have some previous knowledge. Call your state board of health (or CNA agency), or visit their website to find out the rules in your state. They usually have a brochure for this.
CNA
Another great benefit of becoming a CNA is the opportunity to learn the healthcare system and use your new knowledge to tackle more advanced training as a LPN or RN. Many nurses started as CNAs. To prepare you for the state exam, each state has established a state-approved training class curriculum and approve specific facilities to conduct this training. Fees range from 0 to 00 for state-approved CNA courses.
Regardless of the state, you will be required to pass two separate CNA exams. One written exam will test your knowledge of medical procedures and knowledge you can only gain from a current textbook, and taking lots of practice tests. The other is a hands-on demonstration before a nurse. This is the most critical exam. You must be completely knowledgeable on how to perform all 22 clinical skills in the state-approved CNA training. These are available as videos on DVD (try eBay) and may exist on the web. The best clinical skill training is practice, especially in a nursing home or hospital.
Here is what you need to get started.
Locate website or tel. for your state board of nursing, board of health, or CNA registry From the board, obtain their CNA brochure Study the brouchre and decide if you qualify and what path you'll take Decide if you are allowed to and want to "challenge" the exam Get a CNA career book at your local library Find a list of CNA training schools in your area if you will take this course Find current textbooks on CNA exam prep, try Amazon.com Consider investing in a good medical dictionary (cost approx ) Visit local nursing homes; ask about a free training program for CNA candidates Find practice tests and "clinical skills" videos to prepare for your training
To learn more, go to ebook-browser.com for articles and practice tests. Also, ask questions and learn what opportunities exist. There are many books, schools, and facilities that await you. Good luck!
CNA - How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant
A best-selling inexpensive ebook on getting started as a CNA is "CNA: How to Become a Certified Nurse Assistant" and well worth the reading. Find it at http://www.ebook-browser.com/cna-sales.htm
CNA
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