CNA Classes in Alabama

How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alabama

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing essential care and support to patients in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. If you’re interested in pursuing a rewarding career as a CNA in Alabama, here’s what you need to know about the requirements and steps to become certified.

Education and Training Requirements

To become a CNA in Alabama, you must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and some healthcare facilities throughout the state. The Alabama Department of Public Health maintains a list of approved training programs on their website. CNA training programs in Alabama must include a minimum of 75 hours of instruction, consisting of both classroom training and supervised clinical practice. The curriculum covers topics such as basic nursing skills, patient care techniques, infection control, and residents’ rights. Some individuals may be exempt from completing a full training program, such as nursing students who have completed a Fundamentals of Nursing course with a passing grade.

Certification and Examination Requirements

After completing an approved training program, aspiring CNAs must pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program (NACEP) exam to become certified. This exam is administered by Pearson VUE and consists of a written or oral exam and a skills demonstration. To apply for the competency evaluation, candidates must submit an application to Pearson VUE, along with proof of completing an approved training program or meeting one of the exemption criteria. Once the application is approved, candidates can schedule their exam date. Upon passing both portions of the competency evaluation, individuals will be added to the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry, which serves as proof of their certification. CNAs must pass the exam within 24 months of completing their training program and within three attempts. If they fail to do so, they will be required to retrain before retaking the examination.

Background Check and Other Requirements

In addition to completing an approved training program and passing the competency evaluation, CNA candidates in Alabama must also:

Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Pass a criminal background check
Provide proof of a negative tuberculosis (TB) test
Meet any additional requirements set by their employer or training program

Maintaining Certification

To maintain their certification, CNAs in Alabama must work at least 8 hours in a nursing home, home health agency, hospital, community mental health center, and/or hospice within a 24-month period. They must also be in good standing on the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry, which means having no validated allegations of abuse or neglect.

Reciprocity for Out-of-State CNAs

CNAs who are certified in another state and wish to work in Alabama can have their certification transferred, provided they are active and in good standing on their state’s registry. To do so, they must first find employment at a nursing home, home health agency, hospital, community mental health center, and/or hospice in Alabama. The employer will then verify the CNA’s certification status and notify the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry to have their name added to the registry. Becoming a CNA in Alabama offers a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients while building a foundation for a successful career in healthcare. By meeting the education, certification, and other requirements outlined above, you can take the first steps towards joining this vital profession.

Renewing a CNA License

A CNA wishing to work in Alabama will also need to be listed in good standing on the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry. After becoming certified, a CNA must work at least 8 hours every 24 month period in a nursing home, hospital, home health agency, hospice agency, or mental health facility for paid compensation. Failure to do so will result in a loss of certification, and the individual will need to be retrained and retested in order to regain his or her certification and be eligible to work.