What are the requirements to be a CNA in Colorado?

• Complete state-recognized training - To become a CNA, you need to complete a training program that lasts for 75 hours. The program includes lectures, labs, and clinical experience in an approved setting. Colorado nurse aide classes range from 3 weeks to a full semester in duration.

• Pass a background check - Federal and state agencies do not mandate educational requirements for nurse aides. Although a clean background is necessary. If you want to work as a CNA in Colorado, the Board of Nursing will check your criminal records first.

• Have the required documents to submit - To get the certification, you must first have the prerequisites for training. First, you must be at least 18 years of age or 16 with consent from a legal guardian. Have proof of citizenship or residency like a Social Security Card and have a High School Diploma (or equal).

• Be up to date on immunizations - You need to submit your immunization documents as well. To show that you can work as a CNA, you may need to take a TB test and have proof that you got the COVID vaccine.

• Pass the examination - Pearson Vue handles the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam and the management of Colorado's Nurse Aide Registry. To get certified, complete the Certification by Examination application and pass both exam parts within two years of applying.

The exam has two segments, both of which you must pass to qualify for the nurse aide registry. You must complete the 70-question multiple-choice written test of the CNA exam within 90 minutes. The skills evaluation part requires demonstrating five different skills within 30 minutes. The current cost for first-time exam takers is $50 for the written part and $85 for the skill part.

• Important points to know about the Pearson VUE exam and its scoring - You can make payments for the exam using a credit card, pre-paid debit card, ACH/ electronic check, or electronic voucher. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. You must make exam reservations at least 10 calendar days before the test date on your computer.

Score reports are available online, so they can be printed and downloaded. If an applicant fails either section of the exam, they may retest up to three times within 24 months by paying an extra fee and submitting the official score report to Pearson Vue. Passing both sections is required for inclusion in the Nurse Aide Registry

How do I register for the CNA exam?

Once you finish a training course approved by the state of Colorado, you will be required to set up an online account using Credentia's CNA365 system. You can find a detailed step-by-step reference guide on how to create a CNA365 account and register for the exams. By using the Credentia CNA365 system, you can conveniently register for your examination online in an easier way.

Upon qualification to take the CNA state examination, you can now start your countdown to becoming a CNA! Passing the exam is essential to becoming certified, and we want to help you ace it by providing a manual on how you can prepare for your CNA examination.

Where can I find CNA classes in Colorado?

Dreambound did the hard work of compiling schools for you already. A list of schools in Denver, Colorado Springs, Cañon City, Glenwood Springs, Pueblo, and Fort Collins is up on Dreambound’s website and is ready for applications! You can also view upcoming CNA class schedules via those links by clicking on the nearby metro areas.

Once you decide on the school and class you want to attend, you can now prepare the things you need to buy for your class.

What can I do after becoming a CNA?

As a CNA, you have the option to pursue different career paths in healthcare. You may also get extra training in other fields. Like becoming a medication aide, medical assistant, phlebotomy technician, or patient care technician. If you want to go to nursing school or a program to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Registered Nurse (RN), a reference letter from your CNA instructor is helpful.

Once you're certified, you can find CNA jobs in many different places. If you're not sure where you'd like to work, don't worry. We've put together a list of different types of CNA jobs that you can explore to learn more about what each one entails.

The growing demand for CNAs in Colorado presents a bright and exciting future. With the anticipated surge in CNA applications, there is ample opportunity to begin working at the entry level and gain valuable experience. Although obtaining certification may appear challenging, maintaining a positive attitude, being prepared, and undergoing proper training will help you succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to become a CNA in Colorado?

The cost to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Colorado ranges from $500 to $1,500 for the training program, excluding additional expenses like textbooks and uniforms.