Top 11 Nursing Attendant Certifications

Certifications are important for nursing attendants in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers look for when hiring. Certified nursing attendants have the necessary training and experience to provide high quality care to their patients and ensure safety in medical settings. Certification also provides assurance to employers that the candidate is up-to-date on relevant healthcare regulations, policies, and procedures. Certifications give employers confidence that the nursing attendant is qualified and knowledgeable enough to perform all of their duties competently. In addition, certifications often lead to better pay and more career opportunities, making them an invaluable asset for nursing attendants looking to advance in their field.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Nursing Attendants and explain how they can help to advance a nursing attendant's career.

What are Nursing Attendant Certifications?

Nursing attendant certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual's expertise in providing quality nursing care. It demonstrates the holder’s knowledge and skills in the field of nursing and allows them to provide services to those who need it most. This certification can help individuals seeking employment in the healthcare field, as well as current nursing attendants looking to advance their careers.

The certification shows employers that the individual has received specialized training and that they are capable of providing quality care. Employers will also be aware of the individual’s commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date on best practices.

Having a nursing attendant certification can also give individuals more confidence when working with patients, since they know they have the skills necessary for providing quality care. Additionally, having this certification may open up more job opportunities in the healthcare field, as many employers prefer certified professionals over non-certified ones.

In short, nursing attendant certification is a valuable asset for anyone looking to work in the healthcare industry or advance their career within it. It provides recognition of one’s expertise and dedication to providing quality care, while also giving them access to more job opportunities.

Pro Tip: Before enrolling in a nursing attendant certification program, make sure to research the program thoroughly to ensure that it meets the requirements for your state's nursing assistant certification board. Additionally, be sure to check with your state board to see what continuing education requirements are necessary for maintaining your certification.

Related: What does a Nursing Attendant do?

Top 11 Nursing Attendant Certifications

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

1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides basic care to patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other medical settings. CNAs are responsible for providing basic patient care such as bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, and taking vital signs. They also help with activities of daily living such as transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs and assisting them with walking.

It typically takes 8-12 weeks to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). The process involves completing an approved CNA training program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After the training program is completed, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam in order to become certified.

The cost of becoming a CNA varies depending on the state you live in and the type of program you choose. Many states offer free or low-cost training programs through community colleges or vocational schools. Additionally, some employers will cover the cost of tuition if you agree to work for them after completing your certification.

2. Certified Medication Aide (CMA)

A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is a healthcare professional who has been certified to administer medications in long-term care facilities. They are responsible for safely and accurately administering medications to patients, monitoring their responses, and reporting any changes in the patient’s condition to the appropriate healthcare provider. CMAs must have knowledge of medication administration regulations, pharmacology, and medical terminology.

In order to become a CMA, individuals must complete an approved training program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. The length of the program varies by state but typically takes between six weeks and three months to complete. After completing the program, individuals must pass a competency exam administered by the state in which they are seeking certification.

The cost of becoming a CMA varies depending on the state in which you are located. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000-$2,000 for tuition and fees associated with the training program as well as additional costs for textbooks and supplies. Additionally, there may be a fee associated with taking the competency exam.

3. Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)

Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have completed a home health aide training program and passed the required competency exam. The CHHA certification is designed to ensure that home health aides are knowledgeable and competent in providing quality care to their clients.

To become certified, an individual must complete a state-approved home health aide training program. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice. The length of the program varies by state, but most programs take between 75 and 120 hours to complete.

Once the training has been completed, the individual must then pass a competency exam administered by either their state or a nationally recognized organization such as the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC). The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken, but generally ranges from $50-$100.

The cost of the home health aide training program also varies depending on where it is taken, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000. In addition to this cost, there may be additional fees for books or other materials used during the course.

4. Certified Nursing Assistant in Long-Term Care (CNALTC)

Certified Nursing Assistant in Long-Term Care (CNALTC) is a certification program designed to prepare individuals to provide basic nursing care and services to residents in long-term care settings. The program is offered through the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB).

The CNALTC program consists of three parts: an online course, a hands-on skills assessment, and a written exam. The online course covers topics such as infection control, nutrition, communication, and resident rights. The hands-on skills assessment is conducted by an approved instructor and tests the student’s ability to perform common nursing tasks such as bathing, feeding, and taking vital signs. The written exam tests the student’s knowledge of the material covered in the online course.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the CNALTC program depending on how quickly you are able to complete the coursework and pass the exams. The cost of the program varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $300-$500. To get certified you must successfully complete all three parts of the program and submit your application for certification with NAB.

5. Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT)

Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) is a certification program designed to certify individuals in the knowledge and skills required to provide basic patient care. The CPCT certification is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

The CPCT certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, infection control, patient safety, vital signs, medication administration, and general patient care. The exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

To qualify for the CPCT certification exam, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least one year of experience in providing direct patient care in a clinical setting.

The cost of the CPCT certification exam is $115 for NHA members and $135 for non-members. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CPCT certificate from NHA.

6. Advanced Certified Nursing Assistant (ACNA)

Advanced Certified Nursing Assistant (ACNA) is a specialized certification for nursing assistants who have completed additional training and education. ACNAs are certified to provide higher levels of patient care than standard certified nursing assistants.

In order to become an ACNA, one must first complete the necessary training and educational requirements as outlined by their state's Board of Nursing. This typically includes completing a CNA program, passing the CNA exam, and having at least two years of experience working as a CNA. Additional requirements may include completing additional courses in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and medical terminology.

The amount of time it takes to become an ACNA depends on the individual's prior experience and education level. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all the necessary requirements for certification.

To obtain ACNA certification, individuals must apply with their state's Board of Nursing and submit proof of their educational background and work experience. They must also pass a written examination that tests their knowledge in areas such as patient safety, infection control procedures, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and communication skills.

The cost of obtaining ACNA certification varies depending on the individual's state board of nursing fees as well as any other fees associated with taking the examination or completing additional courses or training programs.

7. Geriatric Nursing Assistant Certification (GNAC)

Geriatric Nursing Assistant Certification (GNAC) is a certification program offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). The GNAC is designed to provide nursing assistants with specialized knowledge and skills to care for elderly patients.

The GNAC program consists of two parts: an online course and a clinical component. The online course provides an introduction to geriatric nursing, including topics such as dementia, nutrition, communication techniques, and end-of-life care. The clinical component requires hands-on training in a long-term care facility. During this portion of the program, students learn how to provide direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse or other qualified healthcare professional.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the GNAC program depending on the student’s availability and commitment level. To get started, prospective students should contact their local NCSBN chapter or visit their website for more information about the program requirements and costs.

The cost of the GNAC program varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD. This cost includes both the online course fee and any applicable clinical fees.

8. Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B)

Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) is a certification given to individuals who have completed a course of study and passed the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam. An EMT-B is trained to assess and manage medical emergencies, provide basic life support, and transport patients to the hospital.

The amount of time it takes to become an EMT-B varies depending on the program you choose. Most programs take between 6 months and 1 year to complete. You will need to complete both classroom instruction and clinical experience in order to be eligible for certification.

To become an EMT-B, you must first enroll in an approved EMT-B program at a local college or technical school. Once you have completed the program, you can apply for certification by taking the NREMT exam. The cost of the exam varies by state but typically ranges from $70-$100.

The cost of becoming an EMT-B also varies depending on the program you choose. Most programs charge tuition fees as well as additional fees for books, supplies, and other materials. The total cost can range from $1,000-$3,000 depending on your location and program choice.

9. Certified Restorative Nurse Aide (CRNA)

Certified Restorative Nurse Aide (CRNA) is a certification program designed to provide nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist patients in achieving and maintaining optimal levels of functioning. This certification is intended for nurses who have experience providing direct patient care in long-term care or rehabilitation settings. The CRNA program focuses on helping patients achieve their highest level of physical, mental, and social functioning through the use of restorative nursing techniques.

The CRNA certification requires completion of an approved educational course that includes classroom instruction and clinical practice. The course typically takes between six months to one year to complete, depending on the individual’s prior experience and education. Upon successful completion of the course, individuals must pass a written examination administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

To become certified as a CRNA, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having an active license as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Additionally, applicants must have at least one year of full-time experience in direct patient care in a long-term care or rehabilitation setting within the last three years prior to applying for certification.

The cost for the CRNA certification varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 - $2,000 USD including tuition fees and exam fees.

10. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. They are responsible for providing direct patient care, such as taking vital signs, administering medications and treatments, and assisting with daily living activities.

It typically takes about one year to complete the educational requirements to become an LPN. This includes completing courses in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, medical terminology, and other topics related to nursing. After completing the educational requirements, students must take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).

To become an LPN in most states, individuals must first complete an approved practical nursing program from an accredited school. These programs can be found at community colleges or technical schools and may include classroom instruction as well as clinical experience. The cost of these programs varies depending on the school and state but can range from $2,000-$20,000.

Once all of the educational requirements have been met, individuals must then apply for licensure through their state’s board of nursing. The cost of this application fee varies by state but typically ranges from $50-$200. After submitting the application fee and passing the NCLEX-PN exam, individuals will be eligible to practice as an LPN in their state.

11. Registered Nurse (RN).

A Registered Nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who has completed a nursing program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This examination is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. (NCSBN). RNs are responsible for providing direct patient care, performing diagnostic tests, administering medications and treatments, educating patients and families about health conditions, and providing emotional support.

It typically takes two to four years to become an RN. The amount of time it takes to complete the program depends on the type of program you choose. For example, if you choose an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), it will take two years; if you choose a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN), it will take four years.

To become an RN, you must first complete an approved nursing program at a college or university. You must also pass the NCLEX-RN exam in order to be licensed as an RN. After completing your education and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, you can apply for licensure with your state board of nursing.

The cost of becoming an RN varies depending on where you live and what type of program you choose. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $5,000-$20,000 per year depending on the school and degree program chosen. Additional costs may include books, supplies, fees, and other expenses associated with attending school such as housing or transportation costs.

Do You Really Need a Nursing Attendant Certificate?

When considering whether to pursue a nursing attendant certificate, it is important to consider the benefits of doing so. A nursing attendant certificate can open up opportunities for employment in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Those with a nursing attendant certificate are often able to command higher wages than those without a certificate, as they possess specialized skills and knowledge related to patient care. Additionally, having a certificate may give individuals the edge when applying for jobs in the healthcare field.

In addition to providing financial benefits, earning a nursing attendant certificate can also provide personal satisfaction and fulfillment. With this certification, individuals gain valuable skills that will help them provide compassionate care for patients in need. This type of work is incredibly rewarding and can be an incredibly fulfilling career path.

Furthermore, by completing this coursework, individuals can expand their network of peers and colleagues within the healthcare industry. This type of networking can open up additional job opportunities or introduce students to new trends in patient care or medical technology they may not have been aware of before.

Overall, earning a nursing attendant certificate can be beneficial both financially and personally by opening up job opportunities, providing personal satisfaction from providing quality care for patients, and expanding one’s network within the healthcare industry. For those considering this type of certification, it is definitely worth pursuing!

Related: Nursing Attendant Resume Examples

FAQs About Nursing Attendant Certifications

1. What is a Nursing Attendant Certification?

Answer: A Nursing Attendant Certification is a credential that verifies that an individual has completed the necessary training and requirements to become a nursing attendant. It is typically obtained through an accredited nursing program or recognized certification program.

2. How do I obtain a Nursing Attendant Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Nursing Attendant Certification, you must complete an accredited nursing program or recognized certification program. Additionally, some states may require additional certifications or tests in order to become certified as a nursing attendant.

3. What types of jobs can I get with a Nursing Attendant Certification?

Answer: With a Nursing Attendant Certification, you can pursue various roles within the healthcare industry such as patient care technician, nursing assistant, home health aide, medical assistant, and more.

4. How long does it take to get a Nursing Attendant Certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get your Nursing Attendant Certification depends on the type of program you choose and the state requirements for certification. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed in 1-2 years or less depending on your level of commitment and dedication.

5. Are there continuing education requirements for maintaining my Nursing Attendant Certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require continuing education units (CEUs) in order to maintain your certification status as a nursing attendant. CEUs are typically acquired through attending workshops or conferences related to the field of healthcare or taking approved online courses related to nursing attendantship.