How to Become a CNA in New York
For anyone wanting to work in the healthcare field, may find becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) a perfect fit. CNAs are in demand as healthcare options continue to grow and future nurses often use the role of CNA as a stepping stone to a career in nursing. CNA candidates should have excellent communication and critical thinking skills. CNAs also have to be physically fit to keep up with the demanding daily tasks involving patient care.
Becoming a CNA is challenging, but it takes a relatively short time to complete the required course of studies and pass the required state mandated CNA exam. A New York approved CNA program takes a minimum of 120 hours, 90 hours in the classroom and 30 hours of clinical training. Such a program can be completed in 7 to 14 weeks. Clinical training includes hand on practical applications in a healthcare environment. CNAs have a 120 grace period between completing a program and passing the CNA exam. During that time, candidates may accept employment with the understanding if the exam is not passed within the allowed 120 days, the employment must terminate. CNA candidates are allowed to take the exam up to three times before being required to retake the training program.
Programs can be found at vocational training centers and two and four year colleges and universities. Some health care facilities offer such programs for a modest fee or in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility. CNA candidates will find full and part time programs that will accommodate almost any schedule.
Course work covered in a typical CNA program includes physiology and anatomy, basic nursing and personal skills, mental health and social service needs, basic restorative services, care for cognitively impaired patients, residents rights and supervised clinical care in a nursing home setting.
CNA duties include helping patients bathe, dress, and groom and feed themselves to the degree possible, move patients and change linens. CNAs work under the direction of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). Since CNAs spend a great deal of time with patients, the nursing staff relies on them to report changes in health status as soon as possible.
Eligibility to take a CNA program includes being 18 years old and a high school graduate or a GED recipient. Candidates must also pass a physical exam, including TB and drug screening.
After completion of the CNA program, the candidate will register with Prometric, the exam administrator, to take the exam. The application to test includes the results of the criminal background and fingerprint check and documentation of CNA program completion. The two part exam includes a written test and clinical demonstration of physical capabilities. The exam evaluator will choose up to five clinical skills for the exam candidate to perform. Once the exam is passed successfully, the candidate becomes officially licensed and eligible to be listed on the New York nursing registry.
With license in hand, the newly minted CNA can begin the quest for employment. CNAs will find employment in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted care facilities, adult day care centers and home care. The average CNA salary is $31,000 annually and newly licensed CNAs can expect a starting salary of $22,000. Actual salary will depend on type and size of facility where employed and geographic location.
CNAs staff a health care facility 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. CNAs work one of three shifts, day evening and night shift. CNAs may work the same shift or shifts may be assigned on a rotating weekday, weekend and holiday basis. A typical full-time work week is 40 hours, but some healthcare facilities staff CNAs on a part time basis.
CNA Training Classes in New York
- Practical Nursing Training and Patient Care Technician programs are available at several Lincoln Tech campuses.
- Students get hands-on training from experienced RNs inside simulated hospital classrooms.
- Courses designed to train students about patient care, pharmacology, and more.
- Clinical rotations, public health fairs, blood drives, and similar events give students real word experience.
Programs:
- Patient Care Technician
- Medical Assistant
- Flexible, online and on-campus program available.
- Capstone projects and clinical practicums that can help prepare students for more career opportunities.
- Students learn from instructors with experience in the health care field.
- Programs include Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration, Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness, Master of Health Care Administration, and more.
Programs:
- Medical Assisting
Programs:
- Certified Nurses Aide
- Patient Care Technician Level 1
- Professional Medical Assistant
Programs:
- Medical Assistant
- Clinical and Administrative Medical Assistant
About the College of Westchester
Since 1915, The College of Westchester (CW) has focused on the career success of its students. CW's academic programs are carefully designed to provide the skills and competencies most desired by employers. Our campus environment is highly personal and our culture centers on service to students. CW faculty is selected based on experience, credentials and a caring attitude to bring real world knowledge to the classroom. The College's technologies and web-enhanced learning tools give students anywhere, anytime connectivity to courses, professors, classmates and services. The College of Westchester offers an exceptional experience that can lead to a lifetime of achievement and success.
Programs:
- AAS-Medical Assistant Management
- Medical Office Specialist
Over 450 Long Island companies have hired our graduates in the past year.
Hunter Business School was founded in 1972 for the purpose of providing quality career training through intensive and innovative programs. Hunter Business School’s mission is to provide students with the opportunity to receive a high quality education for the career best suited to their ability, interest and ambition. We are an educational environment characterized by high expectations and staffed by professionals who are knowledgeable, compassionate, creative, supportive and effective.
Programs:
- Medical Assistant
Programs:
- Medical Assistant
Programs:
- Clinical Medical Assistant-CERT
- Practical Nurse (LPN)-CERT
- Medical Office Assistant-CERT
Fortis Institute can give you the skills you need to train for a career in the healthcare field.
* Programs vary by location
* Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information
Programs:
- Medical Assistant
- Practical Nursing
- Dental Assisting
There are a lot of reasons Bryant & Stratton College is the place to get an education. From the personal attention you receive from instructors that stay after class to make sure you are on the right track.
Programs:
- AAS Medical Assisting
- AAS Physical Therapist Assistant
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