How Long Does It Take To Become A CNA?

Becoming a CNA can be one of the most rewarding careers in the medical profession, but the training and examination is not as easy as some people think. The CNA is considered the backbone of the nursing profession. Some people enter the industry with an attitude that it would be a breeze to pass the exam, and the job is not that hard. They are wrong. CNA work is often stressful, physically tiring and not for everyone. The courses last from 6 – 12 weeks depending on the amount of study time.
A great educational level is not required since you can get an Associate Degree, but a criminal record will put you outside the requirements. It may seem harsh but you would be working with vulnerable people of all ages.
Before embarking on this career you should also have:

• A kind and caring nature. 
• A willingness to help others. 
• Good communication skills. 
• A willingness to better your practices. 
• Be dedicated. 
• Have great people skills. 
• Be patient. 
• Be approachable.
• Be honest and open.

Nurses and CNA's in a hospital

The main factor of any vocational training experience including Certified Nursing Assistants, is the mixture of practical and theoretical training, through books and digital media. The very basic core of the Certified Nursing Training programs are basic human anatomy, body mechanics, activities of daily living, human behaviour, nutrition and Infection control.
These core modules make up the bread and butter of what CNA certificaton would have no choice learning inside and out, as these are the issue they would come in contact with on a daily working basis.
Pinpointing at a glance the difference between normal and abnormal bodily behaviour, and also emotional behaviour is the top element, where as a deeper under standing of body mechanics and circulatory/respiratory systems is at the core.
Lifting, and the use of mechanical lifting devise will also be a central part of the course since working safely is central to patient care.

The exam involved in CNA certification includes hands on application in the daily life of a patient under care, this includes, walking (ambulation) toileting, dressing, body measurement, cleanliness and some feeding. Certified Nursing Assistants will also be required to look into the emotional needs of the patient since many of them may feel isolated form family, friends and even colleagues while they are recuperating.
There is also the emotional side of the illness, if the illness is fatal or requires major life changes, amputation for instance. It is important to recognize the signs of depression in a patient.
Human behavior and also dietary needs must be a priority especially with patients who suffer from kidney complication, congenital heart disease, liver function issues and heart failure in the patients medical history. Along with nutrition, guarding the patient from disease, viral and bacterial infection is also priority.
To be considered you would also have to have a high school diploma, and attend an initial interview to test your suitability for the job. The work is hard but rewarding and most of all gives you a chance to work in the caring profession without the years of university required for the higher ranks of nursing.