Do you crave Southwestern landscapes, other-worldly white sand dunes and towering, prickly cacti? Well, Nevada has these things. And a need for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) to work in their hospitals, long-term care facilities and patient’s homes. And federal government statistics show that this is a growth field; simply put, there are jobs to be had.and those jobs aren’t going to disappear in your lifetime. So, just how do you become a CNA in the beautiful state of Nevada?
Does a CNA need special training in Nevada?
Yes. The Nevada State Board of Nursing grants certificates to CNAs in Nevada. You need to have undergone an approved training program that is of at least 75 hours in length of which 60 hours are composed of classroom or laboratory work.
How does CNA training cost in Nevada?
The average CNA training program in Nevada costs 900 USD or more. But there are other options for those who are cash-strapped. Two facilities –the South Lyon Medical
Center and Truckee Meadows Community College, offer respective tuitions of 150 USD and 458 USD. Also, there are nursing homes and long-term care facilities who will sometimes foot the bill for training — usually, if you agree to work for them for a certain amount of time. cnatraining.com lists institutions that are open to funding CNA training. Another option is contacting both the state and federal government to ask about funding for a CNA program; it does exist, you just have to check if you qualify.
Do you have to take a test get a CNA License in Nevada?
Yes and no. If you are a new CNA, you are required to take the National Nurse Aid Assessment Program test (NNAAP). If you are a registered CNA in another state, you are not required to take the test. You do have to register with the Nevada State Board of Nursing.
What do CNA’s get paid in Nevada?
indeed.com reports that the average CNA in Nevada is paid 26,000 USD.
What qualities does a successful CNA usually have?
Patience; a capacity for empathy; a sense of humor; and a robust mental health are all important elements for a happy and fulfilled CNA. Helping those who need help can be extraordinarily fulfilling. But being a CNA is not for everyone. Talk to CNAs who are currently working. Ask them to tell you about a typical day in the life of a CNA. Also discuss the potential stresses attached to this helping work. Ask your friends and family if they think you are suited to this work. Being motivated about the work that you would do as a CNA is key to finding success in the profession.
So, if the cacti are calling your name, and the health sector appeals, considering work as a CNA makes sense. If you enjoy the work, becoming certified as a CNA puts you in a good position to partake in further training as an RN or another position in the health field.