Dreambound
Blog

How to Become a CNA in Nevada

blog photo

If you're passionate about caring for others and want to start a career in the healthcare field, becoming a CNA is a great starting point.

To become a CNA in Nevada, you must finish a training program approved by the state and pass a certification test. These programs equip you with crucial knowledge and skills. Some skills are patient care, basic medical procedures, safety protocols, and effective communication.

Article continues after recommendations

Recommended for you

What are the requirements to be a CNA in Nevada?

Becoming a CNA in Nevada involves several key steps. Here are the general guidelines for becoming a CNA in Nevada:

  • Meet educational requirements: You must have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) certificate.

  • Complete a training program: You must complete a Nevada State Board of Nursing (NSBN) approved training program. 

  • Training Duration: The training program for certification must be 75 hours long. A minimum of 60 hours dedicated to theory and skills in a laboratory environment.‍

  • Training Facility: Learn theoretical and laboratory sessions in a training facility. ‍

  • Clinical Site: Every program must have a designated clinical site and a signed clinical agreement.‍

  • Gain practical experience: Gain hands-on experience working with patients. Certain facilities may even offer on-the-job training for you to learn. ‍

  • Get certification/licensure: To become certified or licensed, you must pass a state exam.

Remember, you must acquaint yourself with the necessary skills and responsibilities as a CNA. Here's a quick snapshot of the core aspects of a CNA's scope of practice:

  1. You uphold moral conduct, keep your certification current, and are well-versed in privacy guidelines such as HIPAA. 

  2. Effective verbal and non-verbal communication is crucial. 

  3. You must adhere to CDC hand hygiene guidelines, personal protective equipment and follow safety procedures. 

  4. Skills in CPR and using Automated External Defibrillation (AED) are also required.

  5.  Activities of daily living such as bed making, skin care,  dressing, undressing, and nail care. 

  6. Measure vital signs like temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. 

  7. Recording patient intake and output. 

  8. Assist patients during mealtimes.

  9. Assisting with ambulation and transfers with equipment such as a gait belt. 

  10. Assisting patients in taking sitz baths.

  11. Care for individuals with mental health conditions and cognitive impairments. 

  12. Care for patients with physical or intellectual disabilities.

How do I get certified for CNA in Nevada?

Once you complete your training, apply for CNA certification. To get your certification approved, you need to meet the following prerequisites:

  • You must have a valid US social security number or individual taxpayer ID number.

  • Complete the application submitted via the Nevada Nurse Portal

  • Pay a $50 application fee

  • Submit a copy of your certificate for successful completion of a state-approved training program. Important Note: You must apply within one year of completing your program. Or you will have to undergo training again. 

  • Successfully pass the Clinical and Knowledge examinations.  

  • Complete a fingerprint card or electronic fingerprint submission.

Where can I find CNA certification classes?

With Dreambound, you can search for CNA classes nearest to you. You may also check CNA training programs in Las Vegas in Dreambound. The average cost for CNA classes is $2520 for 3 to 5 weeks.

How to register and schedule for exams in Nevada?

To register and schedule your exam, you must create a free online account with Credentia. It's much faster and easier than using a paper application.

Here's how you can do it:

  • Go to www.credentia.com/test-takersnv and follow the instructions to set up your profile account.

  • Create an "application to test." 

  • Choose your eligibility route, fill out the form, and upload the necessary documents for approval.

  • Once approved, you can schedule your exam and pay the fees. 

Make an online reservation using a laptop if you're taking a Written or Oral Online exam. Depending on availability, you can schedule the exam as early as one day after registration.

You can take your Written/Oral exam from the comfort of your home or workplace through Credentia Online proctoring. A live proctor will watch you through your workstation's webcam to ensure test security. Online exams offer greater flexibility to match your schedule compared to test center exams.

Prepare for your online written exam day with these simple steps:

  1. Set up a quiet, well-lit, and private testing space.

  2. Have your valid ID ready for verification.

  3. Optimize your computer: close other apps, and use wired internet if possible.

  4. Download the ExamRoom.AI app for the room scan.

  5. Check-in 30 minutes before the exam at www.credentia.com/test-takers/nv and click "CNA365 login." Then, start your exam.

The fee structure includes:

Skills Evaluation: $90

Written Examination: $50

Oral Examination: $50

Article continues after recommendations

More recommendations for you

CNA exam content outline

The foundation of the exam builds upon the job analysis and knowledge, skill, and ability of CNAs.

The exam offers two options: a written exam with 70 multiple-choice items (including 10 unscored pretest items) or an oral exam with 60 multiple-choice items and 10 reading comprehension items. You can choose the format you prefer.

The learning content has three sections:

  1. Physical care skills: Covers tasks like hygiene, dressing, nutrition, safety, and data reporting.‍

  2. Psychosocial care skills: Focuses on the emotional, mental, spiritual, and cultural needs of patients.

  3. ‍Role of the CNA: Covers communication, client rights, legal behavior, and teamwork.

To succeed in the exam, focus on these areas and prepare well.

Job outlook and salary for CNA in Nevada

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report in May 2022, Nevada ranks highly for CNA employment rates, with an expected growth of 11% by 2026. The report also lists Nevada as one of the best-paying states for CNAs, with an average yearly income of $41,110, equivalent to an hourly wage of $19.77.

Thanks to a wealth of training opportunities and the potential for career progression. Many CNAs use their hands-on experience as a stepping stone to earn the necessary accreditation to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This results in a high turnover rate in the profession. However, a career as a CNA not only brings intrinsic rewards but also provides job stability and significant room for growth.

Should you consider becoming a CNA in Nevada, note the numerous available workplace options. A range of healthcare settings actively demands CNAs.

What can I do after becoming a CNA?

Recognize a CNA as an entry-level position in the healthcare field. Upon becoming a CNA and beginning work under an RN, consider the possibility of advancing to the next level. Enroll in a bridge course at a community college or vocational school, available both online and on-campus. Use your work hours as credit towards your training, thus smoothing your transition.

So, if you have a caring heart, a desire to help others, and the drive to continually learn and grow, a career as a CNA in Nevada could be the perfect fit for you. Step into this meaningful career path, and embark on a journey where every day brings new opportunities to make a difference.

For those looking to get started in this field, Dreambound's array of city-specific guides can be a valuable resource. And if you're in a different area or mulling over a move, don't miss out on our other helpful guides.

Thinking about making a career switch? Dreambound has written thorough guides to help you understand different options available to you.

Marce Arnejo
Written by
Marce Arnejo

Marce Arnejo is part of the Sales team at Dreambound. Her role involves seeking out schools and institutions to provide valuable opportunities for students seeking a career in the healthcare sector. Beyond her professional life, Marce is passionate about music and gaming. She finds joy in exploring various genres of music and using gaming to unwind and immerse herself in virtual worlds. Her diverse interests enrich her personal life and contribute to her work by bringing new ideas and creativity.

Share this post: