How to Become a CNA in Nevada
A CNA, or Certified Nursing Assistant, is a healthcare worker that provides direct patient care. CNAs work in a variety of settings under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). A CNA, once certified, is able to provide basic patient care such as feeding, bathing and patient monitoring.
CNAs must be certified to practice in the state of Nevada. CNA certifications in Nevada are granted by the Nevada State Board of Nursing located in Reno. To obtain certification as a CNA, individuals are required to complete education and training which prepares them to provide basic nursing care. In Nevada, a CNA program requires a minimum of 75 hours of training and education with at least 60 hours of class and laboratory work.
Instructions
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Complete a state approved Certified Nursing Assistant training program. A list of approved programs is available on the Nevada State Board of Nursing website (see Resources below).
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Pass the National Nurse Aid Assessment Program examination (NNAAP) if you are a new CNA. If you hold CNA certification in a state other than Nevada, you do not need to re-take the test, but rather submit a CNA endorsement completed by all states in which you have practiced as a CNA.
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Obtain two fingerprint cards. These cards can be acquired at a local police station for a small fee. A list of Nevada locations where fingerprint cards can be obtained is provided on the Nevada State Board of Nursing website (see Resources below).
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Submit your completed fingerprint cards, a copy of your endorsement or examination records, an application for your initial CNA certificate and any associated application fees to the Nevada State Board of Nursing located in Reno, Nevada. A current CNA certificate application can be obtained on the Nevada State Board of Nursing Website or by calling the State Board at 1-888-590-6726.
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Tips & Warnings
It may take as long as four months for the Board to receive your official fingerprint results, so obtain your fingerprint card early in the application process. Certifications and fingerprint cards may be submitted electronically via the Nevada State Board's website.
Individuals with certain criminal convictions cannot obtain CNA certification in the state of Nevada. For a list of these convictions visit the Nevada State Board of Nursing website. Double check your application to assure that all information is completed. Leaving any answers blank on the application will result in it being returned "incomplete" and may delay the application process.
Resources
- Photo Credit stock_xchng - Nurse and Child (stock photo by jynmeyer) [id 253884]