CNA Schools
CNA Classes in Colorado
How to Become a CNA in Colorado
If you’re looking to start a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an excellent entry point. CNAs play a vital role in providing basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. In Colorado, the process of becoming a CNA involves completing an approved training program, passing a certification exam, and meeting other state requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
Education and Training Requirements
To become a CNA in Colorado, you must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and some healthcare facilities across the state. The curriculum includes a minimum of 80 hours of training, with at least 16 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of clinical practice. Students learn essential skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and infection control procedures.
Some of the top CNA training programs in Colorado include:
– Arapahoe Community College in Littleton
– Front Range Community College in Westminster and Fort Collins
– Aims Community College in Greeley
Licensing and Certification
After completing an approved training program, aspiring CNAs must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam to earn their certification. The exam consists of a written or oral test and a skills demonstration. Upon passing both components, the individual’s name is added to the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry, which serves as proof of certification.
It’s important to note that Colorado CNA certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years. To maintain an active certification, CNAs must complete at least 8 hours of nursing or nurse-related employment in the 24 months prior to the expiration date.
Job Outlook and Salary
The demand for CNAs in Colorado is strong and expected to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for CNAs in the state is $36,134 as of December 2023, which is slightly higher than the national average.
Job opportunities for CNAs can be found in various settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, assisted living centers, and home health agencies. With experience and additional training, CNAs may advance into roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or nursing home administrator.
Work Environment and Duties
CNAs work closely with patients, assisting them with daily tasks and providing basic nursing care. Typical duties may include:
– Helping patients with personal hygiene, dressing, and grooming
– Repositioning and transferring patients
– Measuring vital signs like blood pressure and temperature
– Serving meals and helping with feeding
– Answering call lights and reporting changes in patient condition to nurses
The work can be physically demanding, often requiring long periods of standing, lifting, and bending. CNAs may work in fast-paced environments and need to be able to prioritize tasks effectively. Strong communication, compassion, and attention to detail are essential qualities for success in this role.
Advancement Opportunities
Becoming a CNA can be a stepping stone to other healthcare careers. Many CNAs choose to further their education and become LPNs or RNs. Some may specialize in areas like geriatrics, pediatrics, or critical care. With experience, CNAs may also move into leadership roles, such as a CNA supervisor or instructor in a training program.
Pursuing a career as a CNA in Colorado can be a fulfilling way to make a difference in the lives of others while building a strong foundation in the healthcare field. By understanding the education, certification, and job requirements, you can take the first steps towards a successful and rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Becoming a CNA in Colorado by Endorsement
One can become licensed as a CNA in Colorado either by examination or endorsement. It is mandatory to be certified prior to working as a CNA, but one can work in a nursing home or home care facility for up to 4 months prior to certification.
One qualifies to be a CNA by endorsement if he or she is a CNA in another state and requests reciprocity. In order to qualify to be a CNA by examination, one of the following criteria must be met:
- The individual completed a training program in another state but is not yet certified.
- The individual completed a Board-approved training program is CO.
- The individual is already a Licensed Psychiatric Technician.
- The individual is currently enrolled in a nursing program and has completed 5 nursing fundamentals credits.
- The individual has been trained outside of the U.S. (This is only true in some cases).
Renewing a CNA License
CNAs in Colorado must renew their licenses every 2 years. If the license is made inactive or it expires, the individual must complete continued competency testing requirements in order to be re-licensed.