Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Nursing home CNAs have fulfilling careers with opportunities for growth and skill development. Their relationships with patients help provide care, comfort, and improved quality of life to one of our most vulnerable populations.
CNAs help patients with daily activities, monitor vital signs, and help with patient comfort and hygiene.
Become a CNA for free
Nursing homes cover the cost of your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification training while you're working for them. You may also get reimbursed for your training costs if you get trained somewhere else, but are hired within 12 months after your certification. Find resources for your state below or contact a local nursing home for their training and reimbursement requirements.
Becoming a CNA in a nursing home
CNAs complete a state-approved training program lasting 4-12 weeks, and pass a state certification exam.
You can also take more trainings and gain experience to grow your career.
How can I advance my career as a CNA in a nursing home?
These are some, but not all of the positions you could advance to if you work as an CNA in a nursing home. Training, certification, costs, and duties vary by state.
Restorative Aide or Medication Aide
Training: Requires specialized certification and an exam which takes a few months.
Training/Education Cost: $300 - $1,500
Duties: Restorative aides work with physical therapists to help patients regain mobility. Medication aides assist in administering medications.
Lead Certified Nursing Assistant
Training: Requires prior experience, or leadership training.
Training/Education Cost: $500 - $2,000
Duties: Oversee other CNAs to ensure care standards are met, managing workflow, and some care-related administrative duties.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
Education: Completion of an accredited 1 year LPN or LVN program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
Training/Education Cost: $5,000 - $15,000
Duties: Provide patient care, administer medications, monitor patient health, develop care plans, and supervise CNAs.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Education: Associates Degree in Nursing (2 years) or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (4 years) and passing NCLEX-RN exam.
Training/Education Cost: $10,000 - $40,000 for ADN; $40,000 - $100,000 for BSN.
Duties: Develop care plans, administer treatments and medications, perform diagnostics, and supervise LPNs/LVNs and CNAs.
Page Last Modified:
12/16/2024 10:50 AM