Pennsylvania is home to over 75,000 Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), serving in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings. With nearly 20% of the state's population aged 65 and older, the demand for CNAs continues to grow. If you're looking for an entry-level healthcare career with affordable training and fast certification, this guide covers CNA programs, certification steps, job outlook, and salary expectations in Pennsylvania!

Key Points

• A CNA is a healthcare professional who provides basic patient care, such as bathing and feeding, under the supervision of nurses.

• To become a CNA in Pennsylvania, you must complete a state-approved training program (80+ hours) and pass the CNA certification exam.

• CNA training in Pennsylvania typically lasts 4 to 12 weeks, with some accelerated programs available in as little as 2 weeks.

• The average CNA training program costs $1,300, with variations depending on the school and location.

• The average CNA salary in Pennsylvania is $39,780 per year ($19.12 per hour).

• CNAs are in high demand, with job growth expected to rise due to Pennsylvania’s aging population.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who assists patients with daily care needs, such as:

• Helping with daily activities (bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding patients)

• Monitoring vital signs and reporting changes to nurses

• Providing mobility assistance for patients

• Supporting nurses in medical procedures

• Ensuring patient comfort and safety

CNAs play a crucial role in hospitals, nursing homes, home healthcare settings, and long-term care facilities.

Where Do CNAs Work?

CNAs are in demand across various healthcare environments, including:

• Hospitals: Assisting nurses in patient care and monitoring

• Nursing homes: Providing long-term care for elderly residents

• Home healthcare agencies: Helping patients with in-home medical needs

• Assisted living facilities: Supporting seniors with daily activities

• Hospice care: Caring for terminally ill patients

What are the requirements to be a CNA in Pennsylvania?

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Program

• Pennsylvania CNA programs must be at least 80 hours long, including 37.5 hours of hands-on clinical training.

• Training may be completed at nursing homes, vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes.

2. Meet Age and Health Requirements

• Minimum age requirement: 16 years old

• Pass a background check (checks for felonies and certain misdemeanors)

• Complete a physical examination, including a tuberculosis (TB) test

3. Pass the CNA Certification Exam

• The Pennsylvania National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) is administered by Credentia.

The exam includes:

• Written Test: 70 multiple-choice questions (or oral exam option with 60 questions + 10 reading comprehension questions)

• Skills Test: Perform 5 randomly selected nursing assistant skills under evaluation

• Cost: $135 (full exam), $50 (written/oral retake), $85 (skills retake)

You have 3 attempts to pass before needing to retake your training program.

Where can I find CNA training programs in Pennsylvania?

Dreambound allows you to look for CNA training programs based on the zip code of your choice. Use Dreambound to search for CNA classes in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and other cities. You can also check the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s list of approved CNA programs.

How do I register for the Pennsylvania CNA exam?

1. Confirm eligibility: You must complete a state-approved CNA training program.

2. Register with Credentia: Apply online through the Credentia website.

3. Schedule your exam: Choose a test center near you and select an exam date.

4. Pay exam fees: The full exam costs $135, with retake fees if needed.

5. Prepare for the test: Review CNA skills and practice test materials before your exam date.

For questions, contact Pennsylvania NNAAP at (800) 457-6752.

Job Outlook for CNAs in Pennsylvania

• Growing Demand: Pennsylvania’s senior population is expected to increase by 30% by 2030, driving high demand for CNAs.

• Competitive Salary: The average CNA salary in Pennsylvania is $39,780 per year ($19.12 per hour).

• Higher Pay Potential: CNAs in hospitals or specialized care facilities may earn more.

• Advancement Opportunities: CNAs can become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), or Patient Care Technicians (PCTs).

What Comes Next After Becoming a CNA?

Earning your CNA certification is the first step toward a fulfilling healthcare career. Here’s what you can do next:

1. Advance Your Healthcare Skills

• Medication Aide: Administer medications in long-term care settings.

• Phlebotomy Technician: Specialize in blood collection for lab testing.

• EKG Technician: Conduct heart monitoring tests.

• Patient Care Technician (PCT): Gain broader clinical skills beyond CNA work.

2. Become a Licensed Nurse

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Requires 1-2 years of education.

• Registered Nurse (RN): Requires an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN).

3. Explore High-Paying CNA Roles

• Hospital CNAs: Higher salaries compared to nursing homes.

• Travel CNAs: Work in different locations with higher wages and benefits.

• Specialty CNAs: Work in ICU, emergency rooms, or pediatric care.

4. Utilize Job Placement Services

• Dreambound offers CNA job placement assistance.

• Nursing homes must reimburse training costs if they hire CNAs within 12 months of certification.

By gaining experience, continuing education, and specializing, CNAs can increase their earning potential and career opportunities in the healthcare field.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most CNA classes in Pennsylvania take 4-12 weeks to complete. There are some accelerated programs that can even be 2 weeks long, although these are full-time programs.

How much does a CNA make in PA?

CNAs in Pennsylvania make on average $39,780 per year ($19.12 per hour). You may make more if you work in a hospital or travel staffing agency, or have more years of experience. You may also make more if you work in a higher-cost-of-living area such as Philadelphia.

Can you take the CNA test without classes in PA?

No, Pennsylvania requires completion of a state-approved training program before taking the CNA exam.

How much does CNA training cost in PA?

The average CNA class in Pennsylvania costs $1,425, with ranges from $770-$1,800.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a journey as a CNA in Pennsylvania can be a life-changing decision. This rewarding healthcare career offers a chance to make a positive impact on patient lives!

Turn to Dreambound as your go-to guide in this journey. We've crafted numerous easy-to-follow guides to assist you in kick-starting your CNA career:

• Become a CNA in 3 easy steps
• CNA classes near me
• Become a CNA in High School
• STNA in Ohio

If you're looking for other healthcare careers, why not give these other articles a try:

• Chiropractic Assistant Training in Pennsylvania
• Patient Care Technician Training in Pennsylvania
• Phlebotomy Training in Pennsylvania
• EKG Training in Pennsylvania
• Medical Assistant Training in Pennsylvania