Top 10 Patient Sitter Certifications

Certifications are important for patient sitters in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to the field. They show that the individual is dedicated to their profession and committed to providing quality care. Certifications also lend credibility and help set a patient sitter apart from other applicants. In some cases, certifications may be required by employers in order for an individual to be considered for a position. Additionally, certifications can open up more opportunities for advancement within a company or organization.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Patient Sitters and explain how they can help advance a patient sitter's career.

What are Patient Sitter Certifications?

Patient sitter certification is an educational program that provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide safe and effective care for patients. This certification is typically offered through nursing schools, hospitals, or other healthcare organizations. It provides individuals with the training they need to provide attentive and compassionate care to those in need of assistance. The goal of patient sitter certification is to ensure that those who provide this type of care are properly trained in the necessary techniques and protocols for providing quality patient care.

This certification can be invaluable for those who want to pursue a career as a patient sitter, as it serves as proof that they have received adequate training in the field. It also helps employers verify that their staff members are qualified to provide safe and effective patient care services. Additionally, having this certification can open up more job opportunities for individuals seeking employment in the healthcare industry. With this certification, potential employers can rest assured that their staff members have been properly trained in the necessary areas of patient care. Ultimately, gaining this certification can help individuals gain a competitive edge when it comes to finding employment in the healthcare field.

Pro Tip: Before enrolling in a patient sitter certification program, make sure to research the course content and accreditation of the program to ensure that you are receiving quality and comprehensive training.

Related: What does a Patient Sitter do?

Top 10 Patient Sitter Certifications

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

1. Certified Patient Sitter (CPS)

Certified Patient Sitter (CPS) is a certification program designed to help healthcare professionals provide safe, effective, and compassionate care for patients. The program focuses on the development of patient-sitting skills, including communication techniques, observation skills, and safety protocols. It also covers topics such as infection control, risk management, and legal considerations.

The CPS certification program takes approximately 8 hours to complete. It consists of a combination of online coursework and hands-on instruction with an instructor. The cost for the program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

In order to become certified in patient sitting, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having a high school diploma or equivalent; being at least 18 years old; having current CPR certification; and passing a criminal background check. After meeting these requirements, individuals can register for the CPS certification program through an approved provider such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive their Certified Patient Sitter credential which is valid for two years from the date of issuance.

2. 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. They help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting. CNAs often monitor vital signs such as temperature, pulse rate, and blood pressure. They also provide emotional support to patients and their families.

It typically takes 6-12 weeks to become a CNA. To get certified, you must complete an accredited program which includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing the program, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam to become certified in your state.

The cost of becoming a CNA varies depending on the school or program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $400-$2,000 for tuition and fees. Additional costs may include books and supplies, background checks, physical exams, CPR certification courses, etc.

3. Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)

A Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) is a professional who provides personal care and assistance to individuals in their homes. CHHAs provide services such as bathing, dressing, grooming, light housekeeping, meal preparation and feeding, laundry, errands, and companionship. They may also provide medical services such as taking vital signs or administering medications under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.

In order to become a CHHA, one must complete a training program that is approved by the state in which they plan to work. The length of the program varies by state but typically requires at least 75 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of supervised clinical experience. After completing the training program, an individual must pass a competency exam in order to receive certification.

The cost of becoming a CHHA can vary depending on the specific training program chosen. Generally speaking, programs range from $400-$800 for tuition and textbooks. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for licensing or certification exams.

4. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a professional who has completed an accredited medical assistant program and passed a certification exam. CMAs are responsible for providing administrative and clinical assistance to physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers. This includes duties such as taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, performing basic laboratory tests, drawing blood, administering medications, and providing patient education.

It typically takes about one year to complete the training necessary to become a CMA. However, some programs may take longer depending on the type of program and its accreditation status. To become certified as a CMA, you must first complete an accredited medical assistant program that meets the standards set forth by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Once you have completed your training program, you must then pass the AAMA’s Certified Medical Assistant Exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming a CMA varies depending on the type of program you choose and whether or not it is accredited. Generally speaking, most accredited programs range from $1,000-$3,000 in tuition costs alone. Additional costs may include books and materials fees as well as any applicable registration or exam fees associated with becoming certified.

5. Certified Caregiver (CCG)

A Certified Caregiver (CCG) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s commitment to providing quality care for those in need. The CCG credential is awarded by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM).

The certification process typically takes three to six months, depending on the applicant's experience and background. To become certified, applicants must complete an application packet, submit proof of experience or education in geriatric care, and pass a written exam. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of ethical practices and legal issues related to geriatric care.

The cost of becoming a Certified Caregiver varies based on the type of program chosen. Most programs require payment for the application fee, exam fee, and any additional fees associated with the program. In some cases, there may be additional costs such as travel expenses or books and materials needed for study.

Once certified, caregivers are expected to maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date on best practices in geriatric care and remain knowledgeable about changes in laws or regulations related to elderly care.

6. Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT)

A Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) is a professional who provides direct patient care services, such as taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and providing basic nursing care. CPCTs are employed in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies.

It typically takes between six months and two years to become a Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT). The length of time depends on the program you choose and the amount of time you can devote to studying. In order to become certified, individuals must complete an accredited training program that includes classroom instruction and clinical practice. After completing the program requirements, students must pass a certification exam administered by either the American Association of Medical Assistants or the National Healthcareer Association.

To get certified as a Patient Care Technician (CPCT), individuals must first complete an accredited training program. These programs may be offered at vocational schools or community colleges and typically include both classroom instruction and clinical practice. Once the program is completed, students must then pass a certification exam administered by either the American Association of Medical Assistants or the National Healthcareer Association.

The cost for becoming a Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) varies depending on where you take your training course. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,500 - $3,000 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include textbooks and other materials needed for your coursework as well as any fees associated with taking the certification exam.

7. First Aid and CPR Certification

First Aid and CPR Certification is a certification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to respond to medical emergencies. It is designed to help people recognize, assess, and provide basic care for injuries or sudden illnesses until professional medical help arrives.

The length of time it takes to get certified in First Aid and CPR depends on the type of certification you are looking for. Most courses take between 4-6 hours, but some can take up to 8 hours depending on the provider.

To get certified in First Aid and CPR, you will need to find an approved provider who offers the course. You can find a list of approved providers online or by contacting your local Red Cross chapter. Once you have found a provider, you will need to register for the course and pay any associated fees.

The cost of First Aid and CPR certification varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $50-$100 per person. Some providers may also offer discounts if multiple people sign up at once or if they are affiliated with certain organizations such as schools or businesses.

8. Emergency Medical Technician Certification

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification is a credential that is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed an approved EMT training program. An EMT is trained to provide basic life support and medical care in emergency situations such as motor vehicle accidents, heart attacks, strokes, and other medical emergencies.

The process of becoming an EMT typically takes between 6 months and 2 years depending on the state requirements and the type of certification being sought. In most states, applicants must complete a state-approved program that includes classroom instruction, clinical experience, and practical skills training. After completing the program, applicants must pass both written and practical exams administered by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).

In order to become certified as an EMT, applicants must meet certain prerequisites such as having a high school diploma or GED equivalent; passing a background check; completing all required courses; obtaining CPR certification; passing both written and practical exams; and submitting all necessary paperwork to the NREMT.

The cost of becoming an EMT varies depending on the state in which you are applying for certification. Generally speaking, tuition for an approved EMT program can range from $500-$2,000 depending on whether it is taken online or in person. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with textbooks, equipment rental fees, background checks, certifications tests fees, etc.

9. American Red Cross Babysitting Course

The American Red Cross Babysitting Course is a comprehensive program designed to teach young people the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and responsible care for children. The course covers all aspects of babysitting, from basic child care and safety to leadership and professionalism. It takes approximately 8 hours to complete the course, which includes both online learning and in-person instruction.

To get the American Red Cross Babysitting Course, individuals must first register for the program on their local chapter’s website. Once registered, they will be able to access the online portion of the course. After completing the online portion, participants will attend an in-person session with a certified instructor who will review material covered in the online portion and provide additional instruction on topics such as safety, first aid, nutrition, and more.

The cost of the American Red Cross Babysitting Course varies by location but typically ranges from $50-$100. This fee covers both the online learning materials as well as the in-person instruction session.

10. National Association of Professional Sitter Certification

The National Association of Professional Sitter Certification (NAPSC) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have met the highest standards of professional caregiving. It is an independent, non-profit organization that works with childcare professionals and organizations to promote safety and quality in the home and community.

To obtain the NAPSC certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as child development, safety, nutrition, first aid/CPR, communication skills, and more. The exam can be taken online or in person at designated testing centers. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the NAPSC certification, applicants must have a minimum of six months experience working with children in a professional setting. They must also complete an approved training course within the last two years.

The cost of obtaining the NAPSC certification varies depending on whether you take the exam online or in person. The online version costs $99 while the in-person version costs $149.

Do You Really Need a Patient Sitter Certificate?

Patient sitter certificates are becoming increasingly popular in the healthcare industry. Many hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities are now requiring their staff to obtain a patient sitter certificate in order to provide quality care. So, do you really need one?

The answer depends on your current role in the medical field. If you’re a nurse or doctor, having a patient sitter certificate is not necessarily required, but it can be helpful in some cases. For instance, if you work with elderly patients who may require more specialized care, having a patient sitter certificate can help ensure that you’re providing the best possible care for them. Additionally, having a patient sitter certificate can also help demonstrate to employers that you have received additional training and are more qualified than someone without one.

On the other hand, if you’re an aide or assistant working directly with patients on a daily basis, then having a patient sitter certificate is essential. This certification is designed to give aides and assistants specific instruction on how to safely monitor and assist patients throughout their stay at a medical facility. Without this certification, it would be difficult for aides or assistants to effectively do their jobs and provide quality care for their patients.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a patient sitter certificate depends largely on your current role in the medical field. For nurses and doctors who don’t work directly with patients on a daily basis but may occasionally need to provide specialized care for elderly patients, having this certification can be beneficial. However, if you’re an aide or assistant working directly with patients on a regular basis then obtaining this certification is essential for providing quality care and meeting employer expectations.

Related: Patient Sitter Resume Examples

FAQs About Patient Sitter Certifications

1. What is a patient sitter certification?

Answer: A patient sitter certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities to provide safe and effective care to patients in a variety of settings. The certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to providing quality care and helps protect both the patient and the healthcare provider.

2. Who can become certified as a patient sitter?

Answer: Anyone who meets the requirements for the certification, including completion of an approved course, may apply for the certification. Depending on their state or jurisdiction, individuals may need to meet additional requirements such as background checks or licensing requirements.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: It typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete all of the necessary steps for certification once you have completed your training course.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: There are several benefits to becoming certified as a patient sitter, including increased job opportunities, greater credibility within the healthcare industry, higher pay rates and improved patient safety.

5. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Most certifications require renewal every two years in order to maintain active status with your credentialing organization.