Dreambound
Blog

How to Become a CNA in Nebraska (2024)

blog photo

Want personalized recommendations?

Let's match you to the right program

Talk to Skipper
coach

Nebraska's allure lies in its vast, golden fields and endless skies. Amid this breathtaking scenery, the demand for CNAs has surged. Discover the fulfilling journey to healthcare in Nebraska. Read on to learn more about Nebraska's ever-growing demand for CNAs.

Key Points

  • A CNA is a healthcare professional who assists patients with daily activities and monitors their vital signs in various healthcare settings.
  • To become a CNA in Nebraska, you must complete a state-approved program, pass both the written and skills exams, and meet other state-specific requirements.
  • CNA classes cost around $400 and last between 4 to 12 weeks.
  • In Nebraska, the average CNA salary is $38,470 per year, which equates to $18.49 per hour.
  • You can start working as a CNA while waiting for your certification to appear on the registry, up to 120 days after passing the exam.

Article continues after recommendations

Recommended for you

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides basic care and assistance to patients, often in nursing homes, hospitals, or other healthcare facilities. Their responsibilities include tasks such as helping patients with daily activities, monitoring their vital signs, and reporting any changes in their condition to the nursing staff.

Requirements to be a CNA in Nebraska

Becoming a CNA in this amazing state involves adhering to state standards. These criteria mirror the state's commitment to nurturing a highly skilled healthcare workforce. The key prerequisites to becoming a CNA are:

  • Education and Training: Complete a program that includes at least 75 hours of instruction plus a one-hour Nebraska-specific abuse/neglect/misappropriation training.
  • Language: Be proficient in English or a language understood by the majority of nursing home residents.
  • Age: You must be at least 16 years old to receive CNA training in Nebraska.
  • Background Check: Maintain a clean background, free from any disqualifying criminal history.
  • CNA state exam: Pass both the written exam, which consists of 50 questions, and the skills evaluation, which covers six selected nurse aide skills. Some of the topics the written exam might include Safety, Communication, Infection Control, Data Collection, Personal Care, Basic Nursing Skills, Mental Health, Role and Responsibility, Care Impaired, Disease Process, Resident Rights, and Older Adult Growth & Development.

Where can I find CNA classes?

Dreambound is proud to offer state-approved CNA classes in the state of Nebraska! Aspirants can go on a wonderful journey of learning and growth with our comprehensive programs. Our CNA classes from different cities are meticulously designed to meet Nebraska's requirements such as the CNA training in Omaha. By choosing Dreambound, individuals can confidently pursue their passion and be well-prepared for the career boost they deserve.

Exploring a Career in CNA Outside Nebraska

If you've been inspired to follow the path of a CNA but geography isn't on your side, worry not. Your aspiration to become a CNA is within reach in California, Maine, Texas, Pennsylvania, or West Virginia. For those who don't find these options feasible, Dreambound enables you to effortlessly find and evaluate CNA classes by simply searching with a zip code. Armed with determination and Dreambound, anyone, anywhere, can achieve a career in healthcare.

How do I register for the CNA exam?

Submit your registration for the exam to the testing provider at least seven days before the testing date. At the close of each registration period, the Nebraska Health Care Learning Center (NEHCA) will post a roster of registered testers. If you do not see your name on the list, you should call NEHCA for assistance. Here are the steps for registering online:

1. Visit the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website: Start by going to the official website where you’ll find the registration options for the CNA exam.

2. Choose your test date and location: Select a preferred date and location for your exam. Be mindful that registration closes seven business days before the chosen test date.

3. Register online: Opt for the online registration option, choose the tests you’re signing up for, and enter your personal details, including your name, address, and contact information.

4. Pay the registration fee: Use a credit card or debit card to pay the fee online. Alternatively, you can select the Invoice option and pay with a money order or cashier’s check.

5. Answer the eligibility question: Indicate whether you have previously taken the NA test when prompted.

6. Submit your registration: Complete the process by submitting both your registration form and payment.

7. Receive confirmation: Check your email for a confirmation of your registration and payment receipt. Ensure that you keep this confirmation for your records.

8. Optional mail or fax: If you prefer, you can download and print the registration form, then mail or fax it to the testing provider instead of registering online.

How do I get my CNA certification?

After you complete the CNA exams, the next steps are about receiving your results and ensuring your certification is processed. Here's a streamlined guide to what happens next:

Here’s what you have to do:

1. Wait for your exam results: Once NEHCA has graded both the written and skills exams, the results are sent to the Nurse Aide Registry for review. If you do not pass the exam, you’ll receive a letter with your results, while those who fail the skills evaluation will get immediate feedback.

2. Check your registry status: If you pass, your name will be added to the Nurse Aide Registry. You can track your status online using the nurse aide registry. The registry will update with your information within 30 days of your exam date.

3. Work while waiting: You may start working as a nursing assistant while waiting for your name to appear on the registry, up to 120 days after passing the exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get courses selected just for you

Try our powerful search engine

Try it now

Article continues after recommendations

How long does it take to be a CNA in Nebraska?

Becoming a CNA in Nebraska typically takes between 4 to 12 weeks. This duration depends on the specific program you choose. The training includes both theoretical coursework and practical clinical experience, with some programs offering online classes for theory and in-person sessions for hands-on training.

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

The cost of CNA classes in Nebraska averages around $400. This fee often covers the training program and may include the cost of textbooks. Prices can vary depending on the training provider and any additional resources they offer.

How much are CNAs paid in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, Certified Nursing Assistants earn an average annual salary of $38,470, which equates to approximately $18.49 per hour according to BLS May 2023 data. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer.

What's the fastest you can become a CNA?

The fastest route to becoming a CNA in Nebraska is by completing an expedited training program, which can be as short as 4 weeks. This includes finishing both the required coursework and clinical training, then passing the state exams to achieve certification.

Final Thoughts

Being a CNA in Nebraska is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. You can become an essential part of a dedicated community, working alongside compassionate professionals. The state's emphasis on education and training ensures you’ll get the knowledge and skills you need in your role. As a CNA in Nebraska, you are a caregiver and a beacon of hope and positivity, embodying the true essence of compassionate healthcare.

‍Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help you:

Contemplating a change in your career path? Dreambound has written many comprehensive guides to aid you in making well-informed decisions.

Jessa Guzon
Written by
Jessa Guzon

Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.

Share this post: