What the Requirements for Becoming a CNA in Ohio Are
The state of Ohio has a fully delineated plan to allow people who want to become certified nursing assistants, or CNAs, to achieve that goal. Following that plan can help someone to launch a career in so many different aspects of nursing and healthcare.
Classroom and Hands-on Training
Ohio offers the Ohio Department of Health NATCEP, or Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program. This program outlines the requirements necessary to become a certified nursing assistant within the state of Ohio. A total of 75 hours is required and that is broken down into time spent both in the classroom and in a nursing home facility receiving hands-on treatment. A total of 59 hours must be spent on classroom education and at least 16 hours must be spent on supervised care provided by the student in a nursing home.
There Are Testing Requirements
Once students complete the NATCEP successfully they can register to take the nurse aide test. Ohio does offer a grace period of four months between completing training and taking the test during which students can obtain a job. Students have three attempts available to pass the test, so people with testing anxiety have a little bit of leeway to make sure they feel as prepared as possible.
Joining the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry
Completing training and subsequently passing the competency exam allows a student entry onto the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. This is how potential employers are able to verify that a particular applicant is indeed certified to be a CNA in their facility. Once added to the nursing registry, a CAN has to meet certain requirements in order to maintain that listing. Working for pay for at least 8 hours in a 2-year timeframe maintains that registration.
Becoming Employed as a CNA
Nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and even doctor’s offices all need the help of certified nursing assistants. Once training and certification are complete, a CNA can gain experience in a variety of different nursing situations. Working in a variety of different situations can help someone to develop a healthy resume that can launch a satisfying career in the medical profession.
Being a certified nursing assistant in Ohio is a rewarding career in and of itself, but it can also lead to further opportunities down the line. A successful CNA might opt to continue training to become a licensed practical nurse or even a registered nurse or other medical professional. The sky is truly the limit once someone gains that initial certification.
