Accelerated CNA Programs

Nursing Assistant Questions and Answers

What is your advice regarding accelerated nursing assistant programs? Is an accelerated CNA course as good as a traditional one?
Accelerated CNA programs have their benefits when compared to traditional courses. The obvious advantage is that it takes a shorter amount of time to complete an accelerated nurse aide course than a traditional program. Students who are quick learners and have good study habits do very well in these type of programs. You should expect a very fast pace in both the classroom and the clinical setting. To cover the program curriculum in a short period of time, daily attendance may be necessary. For example, even though an accelerated CNA course may take only two weeks to complete, students must attend classes five days per week, for approximately six hours each day. If you are currently employed and wish to keep your job, this type of program may conflict with your current schedule. The cost of an accelerated nurse aide training course is usually similar to that of traditional programs.

I am trying to get some information on where to start in the health care profession. Is it better to start as a certified nursing assistant or as a vocational nurse?
If you are planning to become a nurse in the future, it is a good idea to see if this field is right for you. What better way to see if you like this field than to become a certified nurse aide? As a CNA you will mainly provide assistance with activities of daily living, but you will learn to become a good communicator and observer. Having these skills prior to enrolling in a nursing program will make you more comfortable in both the classroom and clinical setting. CNA training programs are relatively short, and classes may be completed in about six weeks. You can find a job and start earning money while you complete the pre-requisite courses necessary to enroll in a nursing program. In addition, some LVN and RN programs give enrollment priority to those who have obtained their CNA certification. LVNs are paid better but the program usually takes one year to complete and is much more expensive than a CNA class. Overall, I think it is a good idea to complete a nursing assistant course prior to enrolling into a nursing program, but ultimately this decision is yours to make.

Read Answers to Related Questions

I am interested in registering for the CNA course but I would like to know who at your college teaches CNA classes and if you are you accredited by the state?

I want to start taking CNA classes as soon as possible but I do not have my GED. Will I still be able to become a CNA?

I am a bachelor of science in nursing degree holder from the Philippines and I want to take the CNA test before challenging the NCLEX exam to be an RN. Where can I find the requirements for the CNA exam?

Where can I get a copy of my CNA certification?

Can a person with a misdemeanor become a CNA?

How do I check to see if my CNA license is expired or inactive?

What are the training requirements for certified nursing assistants planning to work in assisted living facilities?

Will a flag on the CNA Registry prevent me from attending nursing school?

My certification expires at the end of this month but I worked as an CNA last year in September. How do I keep my certification active?

I had just received my CNA license about two months ago and was wondering if I could get another one. I had lost it and am unable to find it. I haven't even registered yet.

Is it true that the CNA test is given using a computer?

How do I find schools in my area that offer CNA classes?

How can I get the nursing assistant training videos so that I can use them to teach classes at a small nurse agency?

How long do I have to wait after taking the certified nursing assistant state exam to get the results?

I would like to know if I can recertify my CNA license. I would like to know the costs in doing this. I am interested in recertifying, so I can begin working as a CNA again.

I am curious to when and where I can take the CNA exam?

I am 52 years old female. Am I too old to be accepted for nursing assistant training? Can I take the CNA test?

I worked as a CNA from 1999 to 2008 and I am wondering if I would be able to challenge the exam or if I would have to take the class over again?

How can I get free CNA training videos and CNA practice exams?

My nursing assistant certification expired. Do I have to retake the CNA course all over again or do I just take the CNA exam?

How do I check the status of my nursing assistant certification?

When do CNA licenses expire and how do I keep my nursing assistant certification active?

Can I be registered as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in more than one state at the same time?

I lost my nursing assistant license and I am wondering if it possible to get my CNA license number online?

My CNA license is about to expire. How do I renew it?

Is it possible to renew my nursing assistant license online and how?

Is it typical to use a staffing agency to get job placement after becoming a CNA?

Can I join a CNA training course as a J-2 visa holder? Am I allowed to work as a certified nursing assistant after I finish the training and pass the certification exam?

Could you give some examples of questions I might be asked at a CNA job interview?

Is there an example of the CNA test online I can take?

My girlfriend is already a caregiver who has worked at a facility for over two years, is it possible for her to take the test instead of enrolling in a CNA class or must she enroll beforehand?

What are the requirements for online CNA classes?

Why is it so hard to find a job as a CNA?

How can nursing assistants become registered or practical nurses?

Can a foreign certified nursing assistant challenge the CNA exam without additional training?

How much does it cost to take the test and become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

I have a certificate in Medical Assisting and will be attending nursing school to become a registered nurse. Will I be able to challenge the CNA exam without taking a CNA class?

Is there any way to study from the CNA book on your own and just take the exam? I am sure doing clinicals is required. Is there anyway to sign up for just clinicals and not the class?

How can I renew an expired CNA license?

How can I get a copy of my CNA certification? Is there a number I can call to get a new copy of my CNA license?