Top 10 Certified Nurse Assistant Certifications

Certifications for Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) are important in the job market as they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge that employers seek. A CNA certification shows employers that an individual has passed a rigorous training program and is qualified to perform the duties of a certified nurse assistant. It also indicates that the individual has met all state requirements, such as completing continuing education courses and passing an exam. In addition, certifications can be used to advance career opportunities by demonstrating mastery of certain skills or knowledge areas. Having a certification can make an applicant more attractive to employers and open up new possibilities for advancement in the field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Certified Nurse Assistants and explain how they can help advance a CNA's career.

What are Certified Nurse Assistant Certifications?

Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification is a credential that demonstrates a nurse assistant's proficiency in providing basic patient care. It is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed an approved CNA program and passed the state-mandated exam.

The primary benefit of obtaining CNA certification is that it allows individuals to work as a nurse assistant in any healthcare setting, including hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, and private residences. This opens up many more job opportunities for individuals with this certification than those without it. Additionally, having a CNA certification may also lead to higher wages and better working conditions than those without it.

In addition to providing more job opportunities and potentially higher pay, a CNA certification also provides nurses with more responsibility in the workplace. CNAs are responsible for providing basic care such as bathing, dressing, feeding and helping patients move around safely. They are also responsible for monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure and temperature, and observing patients' progress. As such, having CNA certification can help nurses better understand the needs of their patients and provide them with quality care.

Finally, CNA certification can be beneficial for nurses who wish to further their education or pursue advanced certifications in the future. Many nursing programs require applicants to have some type of formal training before they can apply for admission or take certain classes or exams. Having a CNA certification can help demonstrate knowledge of fundamental patient care skills and provide evidence that an individual has the necessary qualifications for pursuing further education or certifications in other areas of nursing practice.

Pro Tip: When considering a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification, be sure to research the requirements in your state. Each state has its own requirements for CNA certification, and they may include additional training or testing beyond the standard national curriculum.

Related: What does a Certified Nurse Assistant do?

Top 10 Certified Nurse Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Certified Nurse Assistants today.

1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides basic care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. CNAs are responsible for helping patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and transferring from bed to chair or wheelchair. They also take vital signs such as temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate.

It typically takes about 6-12 weeks of training to become a CNA. The amount of time it takes to complete the program will depend on the state you live in and the type of program you choose. Most states require that CNAs complete an approved training program before they can become certified. The cost of CNA training varies depending on the school or organization providing it. It can range from $400-$2,000 or more depending on the length of the program and any additional fees associated with it.

In order to become a CNA, you must first pass an approved certification exam. This exam is usually administered by a state board or agency and tests your knowledge and skills related to patient care. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification as a CNA which allows you to work in most healthcare settings across the country.

2. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a professional who provides patient care services in a healthcare setting. CMAs typically work in doctor’s offices, hospitals, and other medical facilities. They are responsible for performing administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, filing paperwork, and managing patient records. They may also provide direct patient care by taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with minor procedures.

It typically takes between six months to two years to become certified as a CMA depending on the program you choose. To become certified, you must complete an accredited medical assistant training program and pass the certification exam administered by either the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the program you choose but can range from around $500 to over $2,000. This cost includes tuition fees, textbooks, and exam fees.

In addition to completing a training program and passing the certification exam, some states may require additional certifications or licensing before you can practice as a CMA. It is important to research your state’s requirements prior to enrolling in any program or taking the certification exam.

3. Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)

Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) is a certification program that provides training and education for individuals who are interested in providing home health care services to elderly, disabled, or ill patients. The CHHA program is designed to prepare individuals to provide basic nursing and personal care services in the home setting.

The CHHA program typically takes about 8-12 weeks to complete, depending on the individual's prior experience and the specific requirements of their state. To become a Certified Home Health Aide, individuals must complete a training program approved by their state's Board of Nursing or Department of Health. This includes completing at least 75 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. Upon completion of the training program, individuals must pass an exam administered by their state board or department to earn their certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Home Health Aide varies depending on the individual's state and the specific requirements set forth by their board or department. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $400-$1,000 for the entire program. Additional costs may include books and materials, background checks, drug tests, CPR/First Aid certifications, and other fees associated with obtaining certification.

4. Certified Nursing Aide (CNA)

Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) is a health care professional who provides basic care for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities. CNAs are responsible for providing basic medical care such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and monitoring vital signs. They also help with activities of daily living such as toileting and transferring patients from bed to wheelchair.

It typically takes about 6-12 weeks to complete the CNA program and become certified. The program consists of classroom instruction and clinical practice in a health care setting. During the classroom portion, students learn about patient safety, infection control, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, communication skills, and other topics related to providing quality patient care. The clinical portion allows students to gain hands-on experience by working directly with patients under the supervision of a nurse or instructor.

In order to become certified as a CNA, individuals must pass both a written exam and a skills test that evaluates their ability to perform basic nursing tasks. Once they have passed these exams they will receive their certification from their state’s board of nursing.

The cost of becoming certified as a CNA varies depending on the state you live in and the type of program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1500 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include books, uniforms, background checks, drug screenings, licensing fees etc.

5. Certified Geriatric Nursing Assistant (CGNA)

A Certified Geriatric Nursing Assistant (CGNA) is a specialized nursing assistant who has completed additional training and certification to provide care for elderly patients. CGNA certification is offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). This certification requires applicants to have at least one year of experience as a nursing assistant, completion of an approved geriatric nursing assistant program, and passing the NCSBN’s Gerontological Nursing Exam.

The CGNA program typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The program includes classroom instruction, clinical experience, and supervised practice in geriatric care settings. Upon successful completion of the program and passing the exam, individuals are awarded their CGNA certification.

The cost of obtaining a CGNA certification varies depending on the institution offering the course. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000 to $3,000 for the entire program. In addition to tuition fees, you may also need to pay for textbooks or other materials associated with the coursework.

6. Certified Medication Aide (CMA)

A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is an individual who has successfully completed a state-approved training program and passed the certification exam to become qualified to administer medications in long-term care facilities. CMAs are responsible for providing safe, accurate, and timely medication administration to residents in accordance with their physician’s orders. CMAs also provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.

The length of time it takes to become a CMA varies by state but typically requires completion of a state-approved training program that lasts anywhere from 8-12 weeks. Training programs include classroom instruction as well as hands-on clinical experience in a long-term care facility. Upon successful completion of the training program and passing the certification exam, individuals may apply for CMA certification in their state.

The cost of becoming a CMA varies by state but typically includes tuition for the training course, textbooks or other materials needed for the course, and the cost of taking the certification exam. The cost can range from $500-$1500 depending on the specific requirements of each state.

7. Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT)

A Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care services under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN). CPCTs are typically employed in hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities. They perform basic patient care tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with bathing and dressing, providing bedside care, and helping patients move.

To become a Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT), you must complete an approved training program. Training programs vary in length but typically take between 6 months to 1 year to complete. Programs include courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, nutrition, infection control, patient safety and more. After completing the program, students must pass an exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) to become certified.

The cost of becoming a Certified Patient Care Technician varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally speaking, tuition for CPCT programs range from $2,000 to $5,000 USD depending on the institution and length of program. In addition to tuition costs there may be additional fees associated with textbooks or certification exams.

8. Certified Restorative Nursing Assistant (CRNA)

A Certified Restorative Nursing Assistant (CRNA) is a specialized nursing assistant who has been trained to provide restorative care to patients. This type of care focuses on helping patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life. CRNAs are responsible for helping patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They also help with therapeutic exercises and other interventions that can help improve mobility and strength.

To become a CRNA, you must complete an accredited restorative nursing assistant program. The length of the program varies depending on the school, but typically takes between six months to one year to complete. During the program, students will learn about anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, nutrition, infection control, patient assessment and care planning, restorative nursing techniques, communication skills, documentation practices and more.

The cost of becoming a CRNA varies depending on the school you choose and whether or not you receive financial aid or scholarships. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000-$5,000 for the entire program. In addition to tuition fees there may be additional costs associated with books and supplies.

Once you have completed your training program you must pass a certification exam in order to become certified as a CRNA. The exam is administered by the National Board for Certification in Restorative Nursing (NBCRN). The cost of taking the exam is $295 USD plus an additional $50 fee if you need to retake it.

9. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is a professional who has been certified by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) to provide patient care in a clinical setting. CCMAs are responsible for performing administrative, clinical, and laboratory duties in a healthcare setting under the supervision of a physician or other healthcare professional.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the training and certification process to become a CCMA. The first step is to obtain an accredited medical assistant program from an accredited institution. After completing the program, students must pass the NHA’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of becoming a CCMA varies depending on where you take your course and which certifying body you choose. Generally, it costs around $400-$500 for the exam fee, study materials, and any additional fees associated with taking the test.

Once you have passed the exam and completed all necessary requirements, you will be officially certified as a CCMA. This certification will allow you to work as a medical assistant in many different settings including hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, and more.

10. Advanced Certified Nurse Aide (ACNA)

Advanced Certified Nurse Aide (ACNA) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Health Care Assistants (NAHCA). It is an advanced level of training and education for certified nurse aides. The ACNA program focuses on providing higher-level skills, knowledge, and competencies to enhance the quality of care provided to patients.

The ACNA program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires completion of a specific number of hours in classroom instruction as well as hands-on clinical experience. The Basic level requires 40 hours; the Intermediate level requires 80 hours; and the Advanced level requires 120 hours. Upon successful completion of all three levels, participants receive their ACNA certification.

To get certified as an Advanced Certified Nurse Aide (ACNA), you must first complete the NAHCA’s CNA Program or have passed a state-approved CNA program within two years prior to applying for this certification. You will then need to complete the required coursework and clinical experience for each level. Once you have completed all three levels, you will be eligible to take the ACNA exam administered by NAHCA. Upon passing this exam, you will receive your ACNA certification.

The cost of becoming an Advanced Certified Nurse Aide (ACNA) varies depending on where you are taking your courses and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on your individual situation.

Do You Really Need a Certified Nurse Assistant Certificate?

Yes, you do need a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certificate in order to become a certified nursing assistant. A CNA is an important member of the healthcare team who provides direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse. The CNA assists with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, helps patients move from bed to chair or wheelchair, and takes vital signs. CNAs also provide emotional support for patients and their families.

The certification process involves completing a state approved training program and passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. The training program covers topics such as infection control, communication skills, safety measures, basic nursing skills, and personal care. After successfully completing the training program, individuals must pass the NNAAP exam in order to receive their CNA certificate.

Having a CNA certificate is essential for individuals seeking employment in this field. Employers value CNAs who have earned their certification because it demonstrates that they have been properly trained and are knowledgeable about providing quality patient care. Moreover, having your CNA certification can open up more job opportunities in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and other medical settings.

In conclusion, having a Certified Nurse Assistant Certificate is essential for anyone wanting to pursue a career as a nursing assistant. It demonstrates that you have met all of the necessary requirements to be successful in this field and can provide quality patient care when needed.

Related: Certified Nurse Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Certified Nurse Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Certification?

Answer: A Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification is a professional credential that demonstrates competency in providing basic patient care and safety measures in health care settings. It involves passing an exam and meeting certain educational, clinical, and/or work experience requirements as determined by the state in which the individual seeks certification.

2. How long does it take to become a CNA?

Answer: The amount of time required to become a CNA varies depending on the individual and their state’s requirements. Generally speaking, it may take anywhere from six weeks to several months to complete all of the necessary training and testing for certification.

3. What kind of job opportunities are available with a CNA certification?

Answer: With a CNA certification, individuals can find employment in various healthcare environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, physician offices, etc. CNAs typically provide basic patient care such as taking vital signs, assisting with daily activities like bathing and dressing, helping patients with mobility issues or transferring them from bed to wheelchair, providing emotional support to patients and families, etc.

4. How much does a CNA certification cost?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a CNA certification varies depending on the program you choose and your location. Generally speaking though, tuition can range anywhere from $500-$3,000 or more depending on factors such as additional fees for textbooks or supplies or whether you're attending school online or in-person.

5. Is there continuing education required after receiving my CNA certification?

Answer: Yes! Depending on your state’s requirements for renewing your CNA license, you may need to complete continuing education courses every year or two in order to maintain your active status as a certified nurse assistant.