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.
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 to 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.
How to 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 to Get a 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
