Do you want to work at a nursing home or assisted living facility? Wondering how you can become a nursing home assistant?
If you’re looking for a new career, working as a nursing home assistant can be a great option. As a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in nursing homes, you’ll have an opportunity to help the elderly and will have a rewarding career.
Here are the steps you need to take if you want to become a certified nursing home assistant.
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1. Start With a High School Diploma or GED
In most states, the first step to becoming a nursing home assistant will be to earn your high school diploma or to get a GED. Most CNA training programs will require you to have one of these two things.
Keep in mind that some states will have different requirements, however. Be sure to do your research and find out exactly what is required in your area.
2. Find a Training Program
Once you have a high school diploma or a GED, you can apply to a CNA training program. Taking one of these programs will likely take between 4 to 12 weeks and will include a combination of clinical experience and learning in the classroom.
You’ll want to evaluate your training options carefully. Ensure that you take a program that is state-approved and meets all necessary requirements.
3. Pass the State Exam
Once you have completed a training program, you’ll also need to successfully pass an exam. You’ll need to pass the test to prove that you’re able to provide skilled nursing care to patients.
You’ll typically pay around $100 to take the exam. Topics covered on the exam will include a variety of things including daily care, management of infections, ethics, and medical data reporting.
4. Start Looking For Nursing Home Jobs
Once you’ve passed an exam for your state, you can start looking for work at a nursing home in your area.
You’ll need to research any nursing homes in your area that you may be interested in working in and find out more about their employment process. It’s a good idea to go visit some employers in person or to check out their website to learn more about them.
You can then apply for a nursing home job with one of these employers. With any luck, you may be able to schedule an interview.
5. Keep Your Certification
Once you have completed the above steps and landed a job, your work isn’t over. As a CNA, it’s important to stay certified.
To do this, you’ll need to check the requirements for your state. For many states, you’ll still need to gain a minimum of twelve education credits every year. In some states, this will be more. However, in some states, such as Louisiana, you’ll simply need to record your work history instead.
Be sure that you find out what is required in your state and meet all necessary requirements to stay certified.
Following These Steps to Become a Nursing Home Assistant
If you want to work as a nursing home attendant in a senior care home, all it takes is a bit of time and effort. Be sure that you follow these steps if you want to become a nursing home assistant.
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