CNA Classes in Arkansas

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing basic patient care and assisting nurses with various tasks. In Arkansas, aspiring CNAs must complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam to become licensed.

CNA Training Requirements

To become a CNA in Arkansas, candidates must:

Be at least 16 years old
Have a high school diploma, GED, or demonstrate good reading skills
Complete a minimum of 90 hours of training, including classroom instruction and clinical practice
Pass a criminal background check
Pass the state certification exam administered by Prometric

Types of CNA Programs

Arkansas offers several options for CNA training:

Community Colleges: Many community colleges, such as NorthWest Arkansas Community College and Arkansas State University, offer affordable CNA programs that can be completed in 4-10 weeks. These programs typically include classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
Vocational Schools: Vocational schools provide focused CNA training with flexible schedules. Students learn essential caregiving skills and prepare for the certification exam.
Nursing Homes: Some nursing homes offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment after graduation. This is a great option for those who want to gain experience in a long-term care setting.
Online Programs: While the clinical component must be completed in person, some schools offer online or hybrid CNA programs that allow students to complete coursework remotely. For example, UAMS Caregiving provides online CNA classes with in-person skills labs.

Career Outlook and Salary

The demand for CNAs in Arkansas is expected to grow by 8% through 2030, adding over 6,400 new jobs. This growth is largely driven by an aging population and the need for long-term care services.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for nursing assistants in Arkansas was $26,550 as of May 2022. However, salaries can vary based on location, employer, and experience level. CNAs who pursue additional certifications or specialize in areas like geriatric care may earn higher wages.Becoming a CNA is a rewarding way to start a career in healthcare. With numerous training options available and strong job growth projected, now is an excellent time to explore CNA programs in Arkansas. Whether you choose a community college, vocational school, nursing home, or online program, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to provide compassionate care to patients in various settings.

After CNA Training

When a student completes the training program, he or she will be issued a certificate of completion. Each certificate must be renewed every two years or else it expires. An individual can renew his or her CNA license by submitting proof that he or she worked as a nursing assistant for at least 8 paid hours during the past 2 years.

The individual wishing to work as a CNA must pass the competency evaluation within 12 months of completing his or her CNA training program. Applicants are given 3 attempts to pass the evaluation. If the individual does not pass the exam after 3 attempts, he or she will be requirement to retake (and pass) a state-approved CNA training course.

Licensure through Reciprocity

If an individual is already certified as a CNA in another state, he or she may qualify for reciprocity. This means that he or she may be qualified to work as a CNA in Arkansas without any further training or testing.