HOW TO BECOME A Certifed Nursing Assistant (CNA) IN ALABAMA

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alabama, you need to follow these steps:

Complete a state-approved CNA training program: Find a training program that is approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, high schools, and some nursing homes. The program will include both classroom instruction and clinical training, covering topics like basic nursing skills, infection control, and communication. In Alabama, CNA training programs must have a minimum of 120 hours, with at least 40 of those hours dedicated to clinical experience.

Pass a criminal background check: Before you can enroll in a CNA training program, you may be required to undergo a criminal background check. Each training program may have its own specific requirements for this step.

Complete the training program: Attend all classes and clinical training sessions. Your performance will be evaluated throughout the program, and you will need to demonstrate competency in the required skills.

Register for the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation: After completing your training, you will need to pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. This exam consists of two parts: a written or oral exam and a skills evaluation. The exam is administered by a third-party testing organization, such as Pearson VUE or Prometric.

Pass the competency evaluation: The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions, while the skills evaluation requires you to demonstrate various CNA tasks under the supervision of an evaluator. You must pass both parts of the competency evaluation to become a certified nursing assistant in Alabama.

Apply for certification: Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name will be added to the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry. This registry is maintained by the ADPH, and it lists all CNAs who are certified to work in the state.

Maintain your certification: To maintain your CNA certification in Alabama, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years and provide documentation of employment as a CNA for at least 8 hours within the past 24 months. If you do not meet these requirements, your certification may lapse, and you will need to retake the competency evaluation to regain your certification.