With the current demand for healthcare personnel in Arizona, it is not hard to find people looking for ways to gain a CNA certification in Arizona. This state is now said to be increasing in population which will spark the demand for caregivers in the future. Hence, it would be a good option to pursue a career in healthcare early on which will always provide a ready occupation waiting for fresh graduates.
The first step to becoming a nursing assistant in Arizona is to take a school program that is approved by the State. The state requires that these programs should have at least 120 hours of both theoretical and practical teaching of nursing aide skills. One can find many of these programs offered by community colleges as well as by nursing homes. There is no set age limit for those who would like to apply as even high school students can already enroll in these CNA training programs. The training course should be able to equip students with skills and knowledge in emergency skills, infection control, direct patient care, medical ethics and rights of patients, rehabilitation and other essential nursing skills. The training would last for about 3 months or less than that depending on the school. After completing the training, one can then apply for the state exam.
One would need to submit his transcript or proof of completion of training, the required application form, photos, and fingerprint cards. The exam would cover two types of exams which would require both written or oral exam and the practical skills test as well. The applicant should also submit to a criminal background check in order to protect the interests of the residents that he or she would be taking care of after he passes the exam. This is why a fingerprint scan is needed. The applicant should also provide proof of being in the state of good health by undergoing tests and immunizations as well as blood tests.
You can also apply to be a certified nursing assistant in Arizona through the process of endorsement. In order to qualify you would have to be currently listed on the nursing aide registry of the state where you are coming from. Aside from that, you should also be currently working on nursing assistant duties as well. You can ask for some of these requirements to be waived if you have attained a higher degree of education in healthcare and have completed a significant amount of work hours in nursing aid work.
You can also apply for the CNA certification exam even if you have failed to apply for it for the past two years. You would only be required to present a proof of your training as well as 160 hours of work for every two years. The application should be submitted by mail or by going to them personally. Applications through e-mail or fax are not allowed. In conclusion, the requirements to become a certified nursing assistant in Arizona would be to complete a training program for nursing aides, pass the state exam for certification, and pass the required criminal background check for both state and federal levels. If you want to become a nursing assistant in Arizona, click this link to find out more information about enrolling in CNA classes in Arizona. You can also visit this link to learn more about the AZ nurse aide registry which is the governing body for those who are certified to work in the state.