CNA Certification in Virginia
How to Become a CNA in Virginia
If you wish to become part of a fast growing position in the medical field in Virginia, then consider pursuing a certified nurse aide career. This career is booming with opportunities as well as in the future, partially due to the overwhelming increases in Virginia’s elderly population. The personal rewards of a CNA career are invaluable, and wages are also quite good.
People who wish to pursue this career can do so by going to a Virginia Board of Nursing approved training school and after passing the National Nursing Aide Assessment Program test. As a CNA, you can also choose to further your career by pursuing an RN or LPN degree programs.
Enrollment and Completing CNA Classes
Step 1
Find and enroll in an approved program in your state:
You should only enroll in a state-approved or accredited program as not all schools are state-approved. An institution that does not meet the required minimum of 120 hours of training will not qualify you to take the state certification exam.
Before enrolling in a CNA training program, you need to be aware of the requirements of most schools. For instance, you must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. You will also be required to undergo a full physical, a drug test, and a criminal background check.
Step 2
Complete your CNA training program.
This training will include training in a classroom and hands-on training in a clinical setting.
During nurse aide training courses, you will learn basic nursing skills like caring for patients’ daily needs. You will also learn skills in phlebotomy, infection control, and how to document and check vital signs.
During the clinical hands-on training, you will be required to apply the knowledge that you’ve learned in the classroom in a real world setting.
CNA Testing Procedures and CNA Certification
Step 1
Apply to take the Virginia CNA certification exam, administered by Pearson Vue. There is a $96 fee for this test. After applying, you will receive an admission ticket with the date, time, and location of your exam.
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Step 2
Prepare for and study for your exam.
Review all of your course materials. Prepare yourself for the Virginia CNA Test by taking our practice tests, which can help you identify areas where you need more study or practice.
Step 3
Pass your certification exam which consists of two sections.
In the written section of the exam, you must answer 70 questions which are based on your training program’s curriculum.
The second part of the exam requires you to successfully perform five nursing duties which may include feeding or repositioning a patient. Your scores are calculated on site.
If you pass, you will be listed with the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry.
Step 4
Once you pass your certification exam, you should create your resume which will be important for your CNA job search.
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The Virginia Workforce Connection reports an average yearly income of $22,600 for active CNAs. Additional reports say that there will be a 29% CNA growth rate in the next few years. Request Pricing and Timeline Information.
For more information on CNA certification in Virginia, contact:
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Henrico, Virginia 23233-1463
Phone: (804) 367-4515
Fax: (804) 527-4455