Understanding How CNA Certification Online Works
Many individuals considering becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) are exploring all of their options. While there are various programs available through vocational schools, on-the-job training and other short-term training programs, several are interested in obtaining CNA certification online. This is due to several reasons. First, fewer employers are offering on-the-job training, preferring applicants who are already certified and state trained. Another issue is flexibility. Although nursing assistant training is generally short in nature, some simply cannot meet the scheduling demands. However, there are a few things anyone should know before deciding to pursue such a program.
Can You Really Get CNA Certification Online?

Despite popular belief, you do not actually become certified online. The exam is given in person, usually in two portions. The first portion generally consists of various questions pertaining to what the student should have learned from the classroom. This may consist of case scenarios or direct questions. The second part of the test directly tests skills. The person is asked to perform three to five skills learned from practice labs or the clinical setting. The graduate is not informed of which tasks must be performed prior to testing, as it could be any of the hands-on components the state nursing board feels an appropriately trained aide should be able to perform satisfactorily. The number of questions or skills portion may vary by the individual state.
What Is The Purpose of CNA Training Online Then?
Traditional methods of learning require the individual attend classes on a regular basis. This may last from anywhere from four to six weeks. Either way, one hundred twenty hours of classroom instruction is necessary to be eligible to take the state exam and earn certification. In addition to this, the person is also required to have so much hands-on experience as determined by the state of residence or practice. Coursework on the web can be used in place of the mandatory one hundred twenty hours. This enables the working adult or other person with obligations to meet state guidelines. However, the hands-on component will still be necessary. You will need to learn how to handle patient care, preferably under the observation of registered nurses.
Satisfying Clinical and Lab Components
When taking CNA classes online, the lab or clinical component is separate. Most states call for a minimum of sixteen hours providing care in an actual facility with a certified aide or under the instruction of a nurse educator. In most cases, the student can fulfill this obligation right in their own community. Schools offering nursing aide classes online often work with various institutions that will allow participants the opportunity to complete the clinical experience. After appropriate documentation is provided, this component has been successfully completed; the graduate may sit for the exam.
Important Considerations When Taking Online Nursing Assistant Classes
There are varieties of different learning institutions that offer these particular programs. However, the main consideration is ensuring that the school is accredited to do so. If for some reason the program is not recognized in the person’s state of practice or residence, this can forfeit the ability to obtain certification. Learning about nursing assistant training and the requirements necessary to become licensed are very important.
Related articles
- Is there any way i could take CNA classes online, and get my certification? (certified-nursingassistant.net)