how long does it take to do a cna course

by Lottie Reichert DVM 4 min read

between four and 12 weeks

How long will it take to complete a CNA course?

While the answer isn’t exactly cut and dry, most CNA certification programs take between four and 12 weeks to complete. Some might take longer, though, even up to six months or more. It all depends on the course you choose.

What are the requirements to become a CNA?

There is a basic three step process to meet the CNA requirements:

  • Complete an accredited CNA training program.
  • Earn a state certification by passing a nationally recognsied exam.
  • Get a listing in your state’s nurse aid registry.

How much does it cost to take CNA classes?

There are a lot of variables involved, as we mentioned previously, but on average, the cost of CNA classes is around $1,500. However you are able to pay for your classes, it’s important to know that the outlook for finding work as a CNA is incredibly strong. The employment outlook for this profession is very bright.

Can I take the CNA test without taking the course?

Many states will allow those with nursing education and background to sit for the examination without taking an official CNA course. Check with your local state certifying board for details. Enrollment in an accredited BSN program and completion of foundational nursing skills coursework may qualify the student for certification as a CNA.

How many months does it take to become a CNA?

It can take between four to sixteen weeks to become a CNA, depending on the certification program you choose and your state's criteria. Some certif...

What is the fastest way to become a CNA?

Enrolling in a fast-track CNA training program is the quickest method to become a CNA. Fast track CNA training courses allow students to study cour...

How long does CNA last?

The average CNA certification lasts two years. A licensed nursing assistant can renew the certification by submitting a renewal form and cost as lo...

How much time do I need to get a CNA certificate in New York?

The program takes 6-15 weeks to complete and includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of clinical training under the supervision of...

How long does it take to get a CNA certificate in Miami?

The program takes roughly 120 hours or 4 weeks on a full-time basis. In addition, candidates must attend a Nursing Assistant Orientation, pass a ph...

What does certified CNA mean?

CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant.

What does a nursing assistant do?

A CNA assists with nursing duties in patient care–this can include everything from help with grooming, bathing, feeding, and activities of daily life.

How much do CNAs make an hour?

CNAs make an average of $14.56 per hour.

How long is CNA training?

You can become a CNA in as little as 4-12 weeks.

What state pays CNA the most?

Alaska, New York, California, D.C. and Oregon are the top 5 paying states in the U.S.

What is the difference between a CNA and an LPN?

A CNA is a nursing assistant while an LPN is a Licensed Practical Nurse. An LPN has more responsibilities than a CNA and will earn more as well.

How much does it cost to become a CNA?

You can take a CNA training program for under $1000.

How can I get my CNA faster?

Most CNA programs can be completed in a matter of weeks.

What type of CNA gets paid the most?

CNAs in psychiatry earn the highest wages.

How long does a CNA class last?

Any regular CNA classes will last for three weeks minimum and the breakdown is 8 hours a day, 4 days a week; this means the obligatory 75 hours can be completed in 10 days.

How long does it take to become a certified nurse practitioner?

All you have to do is enroll in a short training program which may be of a duration of six to twelve weeks which involves both classroom and clinical training and on completion of the training you have to seek certification by passing the exam held by the state health department.

What is required to become a nursing assistant?

These are healthcare duties that do not require in-depth knowledge of the medical sciences; basic knowledge, clinical skills, and passing a certification exam is what is required to become a nursing assistant.

Why do students enroll for longer training hours?

Some students enroll for longer training hours, especially for the clinical training to fine-tune their skills and this increases the length of the classes.

What are the duties of a nurse aide?

The responsibilities of nurse aides are assisting patients in everyday activities like: 1 Bathing 2 Changing clothes 3 Grooming, feeding 4 Providing bedpan 5 Taking and recording the patient’s vital signs 6 Reporting any health changes to the RN and following directions given by the nurse

How many hours of training is required for a lab technician?

The United States government has passed a federal law according to which the obligatory training hours stand at a minimum of 75 hours; 51 hours of classroom and 24 hours of clinical skills training in a laboratory. Depending on the number of hours you enroll for, the length of the programs will differ; more the hours more the duration.

How long are scuba diving classes?

Usually, the classes are of six to twelve weeks and it may differ on the number of hours the classes are held on a daily basis.

How long does it take to get a CNA certification?

To get to the stage where you are ready in 4-6 weeks, you do need to apply yourself fully and be prepared to absorb all the information given to you. While you may feel the need to rush to obtain your goals, ...

How long does it take to become a CNA?

The shortest form of the answer is, you can become a CNA anywhere from 6 weeks up to 6 months and beyond.

How much does a CNA make an hour?

As a national average, a CNA will earn around $12.22 per hour, but this can rise to approximately $19 per hour, depending on the industry. The highest paying sector for CNAs is generally in the science and research service. The other industries you can find higher rates of pay are for state government services, the federal executive branch, ...

What are the duties of a CNA?

The duties of CNAs can vary from role to role, but most include tasks like bathing, grooming, feeding, monitoring vitals, also lifting and moving patients too. The hourly rate for a CNA will generally vary dependant on the location of work and also the industry where the CNA is employed.

Why is being a CNA important?

Being a CNA appeals to so many people because of the difference they can make to people’s lives. Whether a CNA works in science and research or with the elderly, as a CNA, you are essentially one of the most influential people in your patient’s life. For most people, becoming a CNA is just the start of something, and after some time, ...

How long does a college course last?

You can, of course, take a more in-depth course which lasts up to 6 months and provides you with a more comprehensive education. It is important to remember that whether you take a four-week program or a six month one, you will only receive the same amount of credits. It is also essential that you use a state-accredited exam center ...

Is CNA class an exception?

As with the cost of everything, there are always considerations that need to be made, CNA classes are not an exception to this rule.

What is a CNA?

A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, helps patients with activities of daily living and other healthcare needs under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). CNA’s are also commonly referred to as a Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Assistant (PCA), or a Nurse’s Aid.

What are the responsibilities of a CNA?

Responsibilities of a CNA include, but are not limited to: Turning or repositioning patients. Gathering supplies for the RN or MD. Obtaining vital signs per protocol. Answer ing patient calls/bells .

What is the difference between a medical assistant and a nursing assistant?

Medical assistants focus primarily on patient assessment, evaluation, and assisting doctors with patient care and treatment, whereas nursing assistants are generally more involved in direct patient care.

What is the growth rate of nursing assistants in 2029?

Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in from 2019 to 2029 this occupation is expected to grow at a rate of 8% , which is much faster than than the average growth rate for all jobs.

Why do LPNs take classes?

LPNs often take classes similar to RNs in order to obtain additional information about health care and the human body. Additionally, there are certain tasks and procedures that LPNs are able to perform that CNAs can not, such as inserting a peripheral intravenous catheter.

How does a nursing assistant work?

Nursing assistants can work on a variety of schedules which vary greatly based on the needs of the employer. Some work a variety of shifts throughout the course of the week while others have a set schedule and earn an annual salary. Those paid on an hourly scale are able to earn overtime pay whereas salary employees would need to discuss that with the hiring committee. An individual’s earning potential is determined by the needs of the hospital and the offer contract.

How much does a nurse assistant make in 2020?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median average annual salary for certified nursing assistants in 2020 was $30,830 per year, or $14.82 per hour. It is important to note that this does vary depending on the setting and area.

How many hours does a CNA take?

Another portion of the CNA classes covers health laws and medical ethics of patient care. Typically this portion of the CNA program is 75-hours in the classroom. The next part of the program is your clinical experience.

What do you learn in CNA classes?

During this portion of your CNA training you will learn the basic patient care duties. You will learn how to take patients vital signs (temperature, blood pressure etc.), how to assist patients with care such as eating and bathing, how to transfer patients such as from a bed to a wheel-chair, the proper procedures of dispense medication, bandage application, communication with supervising nurses in regards to patient care, and documentation of all events related to patient care. These skills are the primary job responsibilities of a CNA. Another portion of the CNA classes covers health laws and medical ethics of patient care. Typically this portion of the CNA program is 75-hours in the classroom.

What is the final part of a CNA certification?

The final part of the certification program is a CNA exam . The exam covers the material that you learned in your CNA training program. It covers the material from the text-books in your course work, as well as the hands-on skills you need to be able to perform, such as taking someone’s blood pressure.

What happens after a CNA class?

After CNA Classes – License Certification Progress. During your CNA classes, your program advisor will walk you through some of the steps in the CNA license process. In short, there is a CNA licensing application that needs to be sent in to the state.

What is the clinical exam for CNA?

The exam is done in two parts; the clinical exam shows what you have learned in the hands-on CNA training by you demonstrating your skills. The theoretical exam is the written portion of the exam, which demonstrates your head-knowledge from attending CNA classes in your area.

What is the job of a CNA?

A career as a CNA requires someone who has a good work ethic, who has the desire to help people and is very compassionate and patient. Empathy and patience are two highly valued attributes to medical professionals when looking to hire CNA’s.

How many hours of in-class time for nursing assistance?

Enroll in Certificate Program in Nursing Assistance. Complete course work in program (typically 75 hours of in-class time).

What is the CNA exam?

After you complete the CNA program, you will be eligible to take a state-administered competency exam that consists of both a multiple-choice written exam and a practical skills exam. Once you have passed this exam you will be certified and eligible to apply for a CNA job and to begin working.

How long does it take to get a nursing exam?

First-time test takers can schedule themselves to take the test within thirty days of eligibility, and the test itself takes just four hours to complete. Some states allow test takers to get their test results within 48 hours after taking the exam, though official results are mailed from the state board of nursing within two months of taking it.

How Long Does it Take to Become an APRN?

Beyond becoming a registered nurse or other entry-level nurse, you also need to think about how long it will take to advance your education and become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

What is a nurse practitioner?

A Nurse Practitioner is one type of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse that is available as a career to those who complete either an MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) program or a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program.

What does a masters in nursing mean?

Rather than indicating that you work in a specific position, earning your MSN means that you have pursued an advanced level of nursing education that encompasses training in leadership, in community and public health, in research and in ethics.

How long does it take to become a registered nurse?

Earning an Associate’s Degree in Nursing is the shortest path to becoming a Registered Nurse. Completing an ADN program generally takes two to three years. Though ADNs do not have the same training in leadership and research that Registered Nurses who have earned BSNs do, those who choose the ADN path learn the same nursing procedures ...

How long does it take to get a BSN?

Completing a BSN program generally takes four years. The most common and direct way of earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing is to attend a full-time baccalaureate program.

How many hours of CNA training?

Complete 180 hours of training from a state-approved CNA program

How long does a CNA license last?

CNA certification typically lasts for 2 years. The certification is renewable upon submission of a renewal form and fee as long as the CNA has maintained employment during this time (exact number of employment hours to be eligible will differ by state). If the CNA does not meet the renewal criteria, and their certification has not been expired for longer than 2 years, some states will allow a renewal via a competency exam. If the CNA's certification has been expired for many years, or they are otherwise ineligible for renewal, they will need to enroll in a CNA program and apply for a new license.

How many hours of CNA training is required in Alabama?

Alabama CNA Certification Requirements. Completion of at least 75 clock hours of training, including 16 hours of clinical training and 16 hours of labs. Take and pass the Nurse Aide Competency Exam, administered by Pearson VUE or Prometric.

What is the CNA certification exam?

The exam consists of two parts: the written or oral portion (delivered in a group format) and the clinical skills portion (delivered one-on-one).

What to do if your CNA is expired?

If the CNA's certification has been expired for many years, or they are otherwise ineligible for renewal, they will need to enroll in a CNA program and apply for a new license.

How many times can you take the nursing competency assessment?

Pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (knowledge portion can be taken up to 4 times; clinical portion can be taken up to 3 times)

How long does it take to pass the credentia exam?

Pass the competency evaluation exam administered by Credentia within 24 months of program completion

How long does it take to become a CNA?

To become a registered CNA, you must graduate from an accredited course, some as short as 4 weeks, and pass the state exam.

How many hours of CNA training is required in Texas?

A typical CNA program in Texas will include 16 hours of introductory training before administering direct care for patients. Introductory hours consist of communication, infection control, patients’ rights, and safety procedures such as the Heimlich maneuver.

What is a Certified Nurse Aide?

The role of Certified Nurse Aides is one of the most important on the healthcare team because they are the principal caregivers. They help patients complete everyday tasks such as to dress, bathe, and take medication. Certified Nurse Aides are also referred to as Certified Nursing Assistants, or CNAs. They work in hospitals and assisted living facilities alongside doctors and registered nurses.

How many questions are asked in the CNA exam in Texas?

The CNA test in Texas is comprised of 2 portions: a written (or oral) exam, and a clinical skills evaluation. Both are administered on the same day. The written exam has 70 multiple choice questions in English and you will have 2 hours to complete it.

How old do you have to be to become a CNA in Texas?

How to Become a CNA in Texas. To start a CNA training program, you need to be at least 18 years old. There is no minimum education requirement for nurse aides such as a high school diploma or a GED. Trainees with specific criminal convictions will not be allowed to practice as a CNA.

What is the growth rate of CNAs in 2026?

CNAs play a such vital role in patient care, that the growth of CNA jobs is projected to grow 11% by 2026.

How much does a CNA cost?

The CNA Training Program can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on the program. For example, the American Red Cross program costs $1,300. However, these fees do not include classroom materials, uniforms, or textbooks.

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