In California, the American Red Cross offers training for aspiring nursing assistant students across the state. This presents a fantastic opportunity for students looking to pursue a career in healthcare or adults interested in a career change. Certification upon completing the American Red Cross training program is issued by the State of California and can only be taken at authorized testing locations. To find out which American Red Cross locations in California offer nursing assistant training, please visit their website or your local American Red Cross facility.
What is a CNA?
A CNA, or Certified Nursing Assistant, works in healthcare facilities to provide basic care to patients. CNAs, also sometimes referred to as nursing assistants or nurse aides, work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) and are trained to assist patients with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing, as well as checking patients' vital signs.
How to Become a CNA
To become a CNA, you typically need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a state certification exam, which includes both a written and a practical skills component. You can consult the agency in your state that oversees this training to understand the eligibility requirements for the training, such as minimum age or education level. Note that individual training programs may have additional requirements. Upon completing the training and passing the CNA certification exam, you will be listed on your state's nursing assistant registry.
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA?
Certified nursing assistant training programs in California vary depending on your pace. The training programs include both classroom and clinical work.
CNA Salary, Career Development, and Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for CNAs is bright. Overall employment is projected to grow 4% from now until 2032. This translates to 210,000 job openings each year over the next decade. While wages can vary depending on where you live and the type of facility you work in, the average salary for CNAs in the US is $35,760 (as of May 2024*).
Where Do CNAs Work?
CNAs can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospice care, and home health care.
What Do CNAs Do?
While it depends on the healthcare setting you choose, CNAs provide comfort and care to patients who are ill, injured, or disabled (or simply need extra help caring for themselves). Depending on the setting, some common duties may include:
Dressing, bathing, grooming, feeding, and toileting
Measuring vital signs
Infection control
Turning or repositioning in bed
Making beds
Responding to patient calls
Assisting with range of motion exercises
Preparing rooms for new and other patients
CNA Certification Information
In California, all individuals seeking to become certified nursing assistants must meet all course requirements before taking the state certification exam. Certification upon completing the American Red Cross training program is issued by the State of California and can only be taken at authorized testing locations.
How to Apply?
You can visit the CNA training programs in California and find out which American Red Cross locations in California offer nursing assistant training by visiting their website or your local American Red Cross office.
