Top 10 CNA Certifications

Certifications are important for a CNA in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that a candidate has the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform a nursing assistant’s duties. Certification also shows employers that an individual is committed to their profession and willing to go the extra mile to ensure they are providing quality care. Employers may also view certification as evidence of a candidate’s dedication and dependability, which can be beneficial when it comes time for hiring decisions. Finally, certifications can often lead to higher wages and better job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for CNAs, and how they can help advance a CNA's career.

What are CNA Certifications?

CNAs, or Certified Nursing Assistants, are healthcare professionals who provide basic care to patients in a variety of settings. This includes hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and private homes. They may also work in clinics or doctors’ offices.

CNA certification is a process that involves both classroom and clinical training. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam and meet the requirements set forth by their state’s board of nursing. Once certified, CNAs can work in various medical settings and demonstrate their knowledge and skills as it relates to patient care.

Having CNA certification can open up many opportunities for employment within the health care field. Employers often prefer to hire individuals with a CNA certification because they have proven that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality patient care. Additionally, some employers may offer higher wages to those with CNA certification than those without it.

Additionally, having CNA certification can help CNAs advance their careers by giving them access to more specialized roles such as being a charge nurse or supervisor in a healthcare facility. It can also allow them to explore different areas of nursing such as geriatrics or pediatrics. Finally, having CNA certification provides individuals with the opportunity for professional development through continuing education courses that can help them stay up-to-date on the latest trends in healthcare.

Pro tip: Make sure you have all the necessary documents and materials ready before signing up for a CNA certification. This will help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible, and that you don't run into any unexpected delays or problems along the way.

Related: What does a CNA do?

Top 10 CNA Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to CNAs today.

1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides basic care to patients in nursing homes, hospitals, and other health care facilities. CNAs are responsible for providing basic patient care such as bathing, dressing, feeding, taking vital signs, and assisting with mobility. They also help with daily activities such as housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation.

It typically takes about 6-12 weeks to become a CNA. This includes completing an approved CNA training program that consists of classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing the program and passing the certification exam, you will be awarded your CNA certificate.

The cost of becoming a CNA varies depending on where you live and the type of program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs range from $800-$2000 for tuition and fees. Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms, background checks, drug tests, immunizations, state exam fees and licensing fees.

Once you have completed your training program and passed the certification exam you can apply for jobs as a CNA in hospitals or nursing homes or other healthcare facilities.

2. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a professional designation given to individuals who have completed an accredited medical assisting program and passed the Certified Medical Assistant Exam. The CMA designation indicates that the individual has met specific standards of knowledge, skill, and experience in performing medical assistant duties.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete a medical assistant program and become eligible to take the CMA exam. To get certified, individuals must first complete an accredited medical assistant program from a college or university. After completing the program, they must pass the CMA exam administered by either the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

The cost of becoming a CMA varies depending on where you take your courses and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, tuition for a full-time medical assistant program can range from $3,000-$6,000. Additionally, there is also a fee for taking the CMA exam which is currently $125 for AAMA members and $150 for non-members.

3. Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)

Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) is a professional who provides assistance to elderly, disabled, and/or chronically ill individuals in their own homes. CHHAs are responsible for providing personal care such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. They also provide companionship and support to their clients by helping with activities of daily living (ADLs). CHHAs may also assist with light housekeeping duties and meal preparation.

In order to become a Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA), one must complete an approved training program that meets the requirements of the state in which they reside. Training programs typically consist of both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The length of time it takes to complete the program varies depending on the state but usually ranges from 75-120 hours.

The cost of becoming a Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) will depend on the training program chosen and can range from $500-$1000 or more.

Once an individual has completed their training program, they must pass a certification exam in order to become certified. After passing the exam, they will receive their certification card which is valid for two years. To maintain certification, CHHAs must complete continuing education courses every two years in order to renew their certification card.

4. Certified Nursing Aide (CNA-A)

Certified Nursing Aide (CNA-A) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. CNAs are typically supervised by registered nurses or licensed practical nurses and are responsible for providing direct patient care under the direction of a nurse.

The process of becoming a CNA-A can vary from state to state but generally includes completing an approved training program and passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. The length of training programs can range from four weeks up to several months depending on the school or facility offering the program.

In order to become a CNA-A, you must complete an approved training program that meets your state’s requirements. These courses usually include classroom instruction as well as hands-on clinical experience in which students learn how to provide basic nursing care such as bathing, dressing, feeding, taking vital signs, and assisting with mobility. After completing the coursework and clinical hours required by your state’s board of nursing, you must pass the NNAAP exam in order to become certified.

The cost of becoming a CNA-A varies depending on where you take your training program and whether or not you need to purchase any additional materials for the course. Generally speaking, most states will require that you pay for both tuition and any necessary textbooks or supplies associated with the program. Tuition costs can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on where you take your classes. In addition to tuition costs, there may also be fees associated with taking the NNAAP exam which can range from $40-$90 depending on your state’s testing center policies.

5. Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT)

Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of patient care. The CPCT certification is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and it demonstrates that an individual has met or exceeded the standards for patient care technicians.

The CPCT certification requires applicants to pass an exam, which covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, infection control, pharmacology, nutrition, and patient assessment. The exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CPCT exam, applicants must have completed at least one year of full-time patient care experience in an accredited health care setting within the past three years. Applicants must also submit proof of completion of an approved training program or equivalent education credits.

The cost for taking the CPCT exam is $140 USD plus applicable taxes. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CPCT certificate from NHA. The certification is valid for two years from the date you passed the exam. After two years, you will need to renew your certification by submitting proof of continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

6. Certified Geriatric Nursing Assistant (CGNA)

Certified Geriatric Nursing Assistants (CGNA) are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing care to elderly patients. They assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. CGNAs also provide emotional support and companionship to their patients.

The CGNA certification is offered by the National Association of Geriatric Nursing Assistants (NAGNA). To become certified, an individual must first complete a training program that is approved by NAGNA. These programs usually take between four and six months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing the training program, individuals can then take the NAGNA certification exam.

The cost of the CGNA certification varies depending on the program chosen; however, it typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,000. This cost includes tuition fees for the training program as well as the cost of taking the certification exam. Additionally, some employers may offer tuition reimbursement or other financial assistance for those seeking certification in geriatric nursing assistant roles.

7. Certified Nurse Aide (CNA-I)

Certified Nurse Aide (CNA-I) is a certification for individuals who provide basic nursing care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities. The CNA-I certification is issued by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

To become a Certified Nurse Aide, an individual must complete a state-approved training program and pass the competency evaluation exam. The training programs vary in length but typically take between 4 to 12 weeks to complete. Most programs include classroom instruction, clinical experience, and practice exams. Once the training program is completed, the student must pass the competency evaluation exam to become certified.

The cost of becoming a Certified Nurse Aide varies depending on the state and type of program chosen. Generally speaking, tuition for CNA-I programs range from $500 - $2,000. Additional costs may include books and supplies, background checks, physicals, immunizations, and other fees associated with the program.

Once certified as a CNA-I, individuals must renew their certification every two years by completing continuing education courses or retaking the competency exam.

8. Advanced Certified Nursing Assistant (ACNA)

Advanced Certified Nursing Assistant (ACNA) is a certification program designed to recognize the advanced skills and knowledge of experienced nursing assistants. It is an optional program that requires additional education and training beyond the basic requirements for becoming a certified nursing assistant.

The ACNA program typically takes six months to complete, depending on the individual's pace of learning. To become an ACNA, one must first complete a state-approved CNA training course and pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. Once this is done, applicants can then enroll in an ACNA program which includes additional classroom instruction and clinical experience. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive their ACNA certification from their state’s Board of Nursing.

The cost of obtaining an ACNA certification varies by state but generally ranges from $500-$1,000. This cost covers tuition fees for the training course, textbooks and materials, as well as any applicable registration or examination fees.

In addition to completing the ACNA program and passing the NNAAP exam, individuals must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of experience working as a CNA in a healthcare setting and passing a criminal background check.

9. National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards Certified Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide (NALTCAB CNA/NA)

The National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards Certified Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide (NALTCAB CNA/NA) is a professional certification program for individuals who are working in the long-term care industry. The NALTCAB CNA/NA certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of long-term care.

The NALTCAB CNA/NA certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as infection control, safety and emergency procedures, nutrition, communication, and other skills related to providing quality care for residents in long-term care settings. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to provide direct patient care through an approved clinical practice experience.

In order to qualify for the NALTCAB CNA/NA certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements and have at least one year of full-time work experience in a long-term care setting. Additionally, applicants must complete an approved training program or attend an accredited nursing program.

The exam typically takes two hours and consists of multiple choice questions covering all aspects of long-term care administration. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

Once certified, individuals will be eligible for higher pay rates and job opportunities in the long-term care industry. They will also gain access to various resources such as continuing education programs and networking opportunities with other professionals in the field.

10. American Red Cross Nurse Assistant Training Program (ARCNATP).

The American Red Cross Nurse Assistant Training Program (ARCNATP) is a program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a certified nursing assistant. The program consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

The program typically takes about three weeks to complete, depending on the specific requirements of the state in which it is being offered. The curriculum includes topics such as infection control, vital signs, medical terminology, nutrition, patient care techniques, communication skills, and safety procedures.

To get started in the ARCNATP program, you must first meet certain requirements set by your state's board of nursing. These may include having a high school diploma or GED equivalent, passing a criminal background check, and completing an approved nurse assistant training program. Once these requirements are met, you can then apply for admission into the ARCNATP program at an accredited institution.

The cost of the ARCNATP program varies depending on where it is offered and what type of institution is providing it. Generally speaking, however, most programs range from $500-$1,000 dollars for tuition and fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with books and other materials needed for completion of the coursework.

Do You Really Need a CNA Certificate?

Yes, a CNA certificate is essential for anyone wishing to pursue a career as a certified nursing assistant. A CNA certificate is the first step in becoming a qualified and certified nursing assistant, and it provides the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties of a nursing assistant. The certificate is awarded after completion of an accredited program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

The training provided by these programs covers topics such as basic patient care, medical terminology, infection control, anatomy and physiology, nutrition and dietetics, legal issues related to nursing practice, communication skills, and much more. In addition to providing foundational knowledge about the profession of nursing assistance, the certificate also serves as proof of competency in this field. It demonstrates that you have been properly trained and are capable of providing quality care to patients.

Furthermore, having a CNA certificate can give you an edge when applying for jobs or promotions in the healthcare industry. Employers will know that you have been properly trained for the position and can be trusted with taking care of their patients. This certification also indicates that you are committed to your professional development by seeking out additional education or training to stay current with changes in healthcare technology or regulations.

In conclusion, obtaining a CNA certificate is essential if you want to pursue a career in nursing assistance. It shows employers that you are dedicated to your profession and are capable of performing at a high level of competence. Additionally, having this certification can help open up job opportunities or promotions within the healthcare industry.

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FAQs About CNA Certifications

1. What is a CNA Certification?

Answer: A CNA certification is a credential that proves an individual has successfully completed a state-approved nursing assistant program and passed the required competency exam. It enables the holder to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the healthcare industry.

2. How do I become certified as a CNA?

Answer: To become certified as a CNA, you must complete a state-approved nursing assistant program and pass the required competency exam. The programs typically include classroom instruction and clinical experience in providing basic care to patients.

3. How long does it take to get my CNA certification?

Answer: The length of time required to get your CNA certification depends on the type of program you choose, as well as your study habits and dedication to completing the coursework. Most programs can be completed in less than six months, while others may take up to one year or longer.

4. What are the requirements for maintaining my CNA certification?

Answer: In order to maintain your CNA certification, you must renew it every two years by completing continuing education courses and passing an updated version of the competency exam. Additionally, some states require CNAs to submit proof of employment for review during the renewal process.

5. Is there financial aid available for CNA training programs?

Answer: Yes, there are several sources of financial aid available for those looking to pursue their CNA training program such as scholarships, grants, loans and other forms of assistance from local organizations or government agencies like vocational rehabilitation centers.