Accredited Cna Programs Key Features And Advantages
Accredited CNA programs are the stepping stone towards a thriving career in the nursing world. A number of colleges and universities provide CNA Program. However, it is not necessary that all these programs are approved. If you pursue nurse aides course from a non-approved program center then your degree will not be recognized. Besides, you will not be able to take the certification examination. Therefore, it is mandatory to complete the CNA Program from a state approved school.
How Do Online Nursing Programs Work
When reviewing prospective programs for your online nursing degree, it is important to determine if courses follow a synchronous or asynchronous format. Students in synchronous classes must log on at specific times each week and participate in live discussions with their classmates. Conversely, students in asynchronous classes can watch lectures and access other course materials whenever it is most convenient for them.
You should also determine whether your program allows self-paced study. This model allows students to advance through their material as soon as they demonstrate mastery of core concepts. In cohort-based programs, students follow the pace set by their instructor. While working at your own pace may allow you to graduate sooner, you typically do not have access to the same kind of support as when learning alongside a cohort of other students.
In addition to strong time management skills, online programs also require a basic level of technological proficiency and internet access.
What Are The Roles & Duties Of Certified Nursing Assistants
The roles and duties of CNAs can include the following:
- Turning or repositioning bedridden patients
- Taking patients’ temperature, blood pressure and other vital signs
- Answering patient calls
Can I Work as a Certified Nurse Assistant as a Nursing Student?
Many nursing students find value in working as a Certified Nurse Assistant during nursing school to add to their basic care and time-management skills. Most employers will allow nursing students to bypass the requirement of being certified, but check the job announcements for these allowances. Many states will allow those with nursing education and background to sit for the examination without taking an official CNA course. Check with your local state certifying board for details.
Enrollment in an accredited BSN program and completion of foundational nursing skills coursework may qualify the student for certification as a CNA. Depending on the state-specific Board of Nursing regulations, BSN students may apply for CNA certification and listing on the state Nurse Aide Registry. Some states require that students sit for a CNA registry exam regardless of enrollment in an accredited nursing program, while other states accept completion of nursing courses as verification of skills testing.
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What Will I Learn In My Cna Courses
Your CNA program should include coursework and hands-on clinical training. Courses generally cover how to work in a variety of settings, including patients homes, hospitals, and nursing care facilities, and how to care for patients with common conditions, such as diabetes, respiratory issues and cognitive impairment. Students also learn how to:
- Administer oral and topical medications
- Help patients bathe
- Help patients with personal care
How To Become A Registered Nurse
RNs need a state license to practice. State nursing boards establish licensure requirements. Most state boards require licensure candidates to complete board-approved nursing education programs and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Aspiring RNs may also need to complete a background check. TheNational Council of State Boards of Nursing oversees state nursing boards and creates nursing licensure exams.
Most RNs spend their days caring for patients. RNs observe and assess patients and record medical information. They also provide treatments in collaboration with other medical professionals.
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Key Features Of Accredited Cna Programs
- Accredited CNA program follow all the guidelines stated by US Federal Laws and agree to the terms and conditions set up by the nursing board of the respective state.
- Schools offering approved curriculum include practical program along with classroom lectures and laboratory sessions.
- Approved CNA programs use best standards to instruct the aspirants.
- Accredited Certified Nursing Assistants classes take several practice tests before the candidate appears for the certification exam so as to prepare him/her to be eligible.
- The health departments carry out a methodical examination of these accredited programs on a regular basis.
Filling Out The Fafsa
The first step in the financial aid process is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid . The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants, work-study opportunities, and low-interest student loans. Many states also use the information you enter on the FAFSA to make decisions regarding their own need-based aid programs.
You can complete the FAFSA beginning in October of each year. States and individual colleges often have different deadlines for aid than the federal government, so completing the FAFSA early ensures you do not miss out on possible funding opportunities.
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How To Select Accredited Cna Programs
You can select an accredited program by following the given steps:
- Research extensively for a number of approved CNA programs.
- Before selecting one, compare the coursework and syllabus of various colleges.
- Make sure that the program you choose is approved by either State Nursing Assistant Board, National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission, or by Commission on Collegiate Nursing and Education
- Consider several parameters such as learning environment, classrooms, teaching schedule and faculty.
- Do not enroll in any program, merely on the basis of information generated by the website, students reviews, professors feedback, and test results.
- Confirm the fee structure and ensure that the college is not charging any hidden fee from you.
- Visit the school in person and then make the decision.
Cna Salaries By Occupation
Salary can rise significantly as employees gain educational achievement. The chart below illustrates the CNA occupational classes and the impact of higher education.
CNA Occupations:
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CNA is the certified nursing assistant designation. The certification requires completion of a state-approved course of study and passing the state competency exam. CNAs must register and meet continuing education requirements.
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LPN is the licensed practical nurse. This is a patient-care nursing field that involves the regular day-to-day care of patients in all ages and conditions. LPNs may supervise Certified Nursing Assistants and Nurses Aides. The typical qualification is an online associate degree and requires passing a national examination called the NCLEX-PN.
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LVN is the licensed vocational nurse. This is a practical nursing field designated as LVN in certain states, notably Texas and California. The typical qualification is an online associate degree and a national examination called the NCLEX-PN.
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RN is a licensed professional usually with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. These professionals provide a wide range of types of care for patients, education, and administration in healthcare delivery. RNs must pass a national exam called the NCLEX-RN.
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How Much Does An Adn Degree Cost
Tuition for online associate in nursing programs varies. Students pay the most affordable tuition at in-state, public schools. Private schools usually charge the highest tuition. Learners can apply for financial aid such as scholarships and grants to help pay for their degree.
Full-time students can complete an ADN program in two years. They can graduate sooner by taking accelerated programs. Some programs offer intensive, eight-week courses throughout the year.
Online learners may qualify for discounted tuition and reduced fees. Some public schools offer in-state tuition rates to online learners regardless of location.
Training For The Physical Part Of Your Role
In addition to learning how to care for patients, youll learn how to protect yourself from injuries on the job. Working as a CNA requires being on your feet for most of the day and involves physical tasks. This can increase your risk of injury while youre working to keep others safe.
In addition to learning how to care for patients, youll also learn how to protect yourself from injuries on the job.
When injuries do occur, theyre typically repetitive injuries, not acute injuries, Gipson says.
To help protect yourself, youll receive training on:
- Proper body mechanics when helping a patient
- Safe transfer and lifting procedures for patients
- Maintenance of a safe and clean environment
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Additional Online Student Fees
Online learners do not pay for campus parking or housing. However, they should budget for other expenses, such as books and graduation fees. Students may also need to upgrade their computer and internet.
Some online programs require on-campus residencies. Learners should factor in travel and lodging costs if they do not live nearby. ADN graduates must also pay $200 for the NCLEX-RN exam. Applying for professional licensure costs $50-$200.
Is Financial Aid Available
You may be eligible for federal financial aid if you attend an accredited vocational school or community college. Accreditation means your school meets education standards. You can verify a schools accreditation on a database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education.
Youll have to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Your schools financial aid office can help with the application process and answer questions.
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Profiling Online Cna Programs & Classes
Finding the right online CNA classes and programs can improve your ability to find employment, so its worth taking time to do your research. Were featuring three of the most affordable and comprehensive programs with the accreditation you need to begin a rewarding career as a CNA. While most CNA programs only serve the state in which they are located, these three CNA programs with online classes have wider appeal and can give you a sense of what your journey could look like from start to finish.
Forsyth Tech Community College
As one of the largest community colleges in North Carolina, Forsyth Tech Community College is well-equipped to prepare learners for taking up roles as certified nursing assistants. The institution offers nursing assistant classes at five different campuses around the greater Winston-Salem metropolitan area, making it easy for learners to find a location best suited to their needs. A number of CNA classes are also taught online to help individuals who want to keep working while enrolled balance their professional and academic responsibilities. Students will also take part in a number of campus-based testing procedures and lab work alongside clinical practice in local approved healthcare facilities. When participating in distance learning, students use the Blackboard learning platform to complete assignments and interact with peers and professors.
Middlesex Community College
Manhattan Institute
Frequently Asked Questions About Adn Programs
The ADN is a college degree and qualifies graduates to earn an RN license. The RN is a license granted to eligible candidates who pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs .
LPNs complete a one-year program to earn an LPN certificate. This certificate qualifies them to take the LPN licensure exam. The ADN is a two-year college degree. The degree qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX-RN and become RNs.
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Accreditation And Program Information
The Pima Medical Institute Mesa and East Valley campuses are licensed by the Arizona State Board for Postsecondary Education and is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing to offer the Nursing Assistant Training Program. This campus is also nationally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools .
Licensure For Adn Students
ADN graduates can qualify to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed nurses. Nursing license requirements vary by state. Approved programs meet board-established curriculum and clinical experience requirements. Some state boards require candidates to submit official transcripts.
States such as Colorado only license graduates of nursing programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
Nurses pay for their initial licensure. Costs vary by state. Nurses also pay to renew their licenses periodically. License renewal requires about 30 hours of continuing education every two years. Specific requirements vary by state.
Some nurses obtain licenses in other states through licensure reciprocity agreements. State boards that participate in agreements such as the Nurse Licensure Compact can help nurses transfer their license.
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National Network Of Career Nursing Assistants
This organization promotes education and career advancement for nursing assistants. The association has a program of peer support to reduce the stress of working closely with patients in all age groups and conditions of health. It urges greater awareness of the profession and its contributions. The organization operates specific types of projects such as the advocacy program for nurse assistants in nursing homes and other long-term career settings. The organization has a task force on Male Nursing Assistants to promote increased participation and address specific areas of interest for that population. The association advocates policies that expand healthcare services and promote health education.
Unpacking The Cna Class Online Curriculum
The CNA curriculum covers a wide range of clerical and clinical knowledge and skills in order to prepare students to succeed as CNAs in a variety of medical settings. Before enrolling, learners should get a clear sense of what to expect from a program. Heres a glimpse at some of the core CNA classes students can take online.
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Whats The Job Market For Cnas
Normal job growth is expected for CNAs through 2030. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says employment is expected to increase by 8% due to factors such as an aging population and more patients with chronic illnesses.
CNA job prospects are expected to be strong in home health care and community-based care. CNAs also work in hospitals and assisted living facilities. Heres a snapshot of what you can expect on the job in different environments.
Home health care: CNAs care for a person in their home. The schedule is less frenetic than in other settings, but you may find the pay is slightly lower.
Hospitals: CNA jobs in hospitals are highly sought after because they typically offer good benefits, higher pay, and the opportunity to work with a wide range of medical staff. You may also find opportunities to work in different departments, which helps broaden your skill set. However, you wont develop long-term relationships with patients since most are discharged after a few days.
Nursing and long-term care facilities: The need for certified nursing assistants is expected to grow in these settings, especially as baby boomers age and live longer. One of the benefits of working in a nursing home or long-term care facility is getting to know your patients. Many CNAs say this is one of the most satisfying parts of the job.
Scholarships For Online Nursing Programs
- Geraldine Polly Bednash Scholarship
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- Who Can Apply: Administered by AACN, this scholarship supports students pursuing either a bachelors, masters, or doctorate in nursing. To qualify for funding, students must maintain at least a 3.2 GPA. You can apply for this award in January, April, July, or October.
- Amount: $5,000
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Can Programs Lose Their Accreditation Status
Programs are subject to regular review and can lose their nursing accreditation if they fail to meet current standards. However, this is rare, since as standards change, the accrediting organizations communicate the changes to all stakeholders and provide information and training on how to maintain standards. Accreditation organizations work with organizations that are at risk of losing their accreditation status to help them ensure their programs meet the latest standards.
The American Academy Of Nursing
This group is an excellent choice for nursing students at all levels of the profession. This large, well-organized group plays a role in shaping the national discussion on health policy. It urges the adoption of measures that increase the availability of health services to the US population. In the field of nursing, the organization works for greater recognition and awareness of the vital role that nurses play in the healthcare system both in the delivery of services, care for vulnerable populations, and research and innovation. The organization has a wide range of information and education resources. Nursing students can take advantage of the opportunities to learn more about the overall nursing profession.
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Certified Nursing Assistant Primary Responsibilities
- Helping patients stay clean and comfortable
- Ensuring patient rooms are sanitary
- Assisting patients with eating and drinking
- Helping patients physically to move, such as by getting them in and out of bed or helping them change positions
- Answering call buttons and other patient requests
- Taking vitals and recognizing possible warning signs, like changes in blood pressure or indications of an infected wound
Resources For Students Taking Cna Classes Online
After reviewing all the information provided within this guide, some prospective students may still have a few queries about the educational process or what it looks like for job searchers after graduation. Review the resources below and on our dedicated resources page for CNA students for additional information and answers to outstanding questions.
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Approval By Your State Board Of Nursing
Nursing programs also need to be approved by their states Board of Nursing. You wont be able to take the NCLEX exam for licensing if your program isnt approved. Something to keep in mind, however, is that state approval and national accreditation arent the same thing. Though all nationally accredited schools will also be approved by their state, its possible for a school to be approved but not accredited. The difference comes down to what accreditation offers in terms of financial aid, using your credits, and career competitiveness.
National Accreditation
- Prepares you for licensure and practice
- Allows you to sit for the NCLEX exam
- Qualifies you for federal financial aid
- Lets you transfer schools or apply credits to an advanced degree
State Board Approval
- Prepares you for licensure and practice
- Allows you to sit for the NCLEX exam