Pennsylvania CNA Certification and Training

For those seeking an entry-level position in the competitive healthcare field, becoming a certified nursing assistant can be an excellent starting point. Unlike many other states, Pennsylvania's Department of Education maintains a list of approved CNA training courses for prospective students to choose from. This ensures that the student will receive quality training from a reputable institution. This can be valuable down the road if the CNA decides to move out of state and wants to apply for license by reciprocity (obtaining licensure to practice as a nursing assistant in another state without having to complete another training course). Attending a recognized school program also strengthens the individual's resume and increases their chances of landing the job of their choice.

One of the most well respected nurse aide programs in Pennsylvania is by the American Red Cross.  Their program is 4 weeks long and costs $1300. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Red Cross administers the program and offers classes in two locations, Philadelphia and Lansdale. The program boasts high graduation rates and claims that their graduating students are highly sought-after by healthcare employers. Although their training program is slightly more expensive than others, the quality of the education and the prestige of the institution is well worth the extra money. Included in the program cost is the fee for challenging the CNA competency exam.

Nurse aides in Pennsylvania fall under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, not the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.  Nurse aide licenses must be renewed every two years in the state of Pennsylvania. All nurse aide training programs must be approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. If a CNA does not work at least one day during the previous two year renewal period their license will lapse.  In Pennsylvania CNA hopefuls are allowed three attempts to pass the competency exam, and if all three attempts are failed they will be required to re-take an approved training program. If students do not pass the exam within two years of completion of the training program they will be forced to re-take the training course if they still want to pursue their CNA license in Pennsylvania.

Starting your career as a CNA allows you to gain valuable hands-on experience in a clinical setting and gain exposure to the world of nursing. These skills can later be built upon and additional knowledge can be obtained through an RN program. Many nursing assistants decide to advance their careers and become registered nurses. Having the background of medical terminology and real-life experience makes CNAs more prepared for nursing school than other students fresh out of high school. Nursing assistants in Pennsylvania pull in an average annual salary of $27,000, which isn't bad at all considering the short amount of training required to enter the profession. Most Pennsylvania CNA classes can be completed in only 4-6 weeks time.