Hey there, future superstars of healthcare! Are you interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in South Carolina? This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to get started. Start your journey to becoming a CNA today!

But first, let's talk numbers. Now, let's dive into the steps to start earning as a CNA!

Key Points:

• South Carolina CNA programs are comprehensive, requiring at least 100 hours of training. This includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

• The cost of CNA courses in South Carolina typically ranges from more or less $400 to $2,000, depending on the program and location. Be aware, this may not include additional expenses such as textbooks, exams, uniforms, and other related fees.

• After completing your training, you'll need to pass a competency evaluation administered by Credentia. The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services oversees the licensing of CNAs in the state.

• CNAs in SC as of May 2023 based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics make a mean annual salary of around $34,590. That breaks down to a nifty $16.63 per hour. Remember, to keep your certification active and continue

What are the requirements to become a CNA in SC?

Okay, here's what you're going to need:

1. Complete a 100-hour state-approved training program. That includes 40 hours of hands-on clinical training.

2. Pass the Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam via the state-approved provider, Credentia.

3. Get your name on the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.

Where can I find CNA classes in SC?

Now, where do you learn all these incredible CNA skills? Dreambound is the perfect place for discovering CNA training programs near you. Just type in your zip code, and you can compare different schools simultaneously. You'll also find valuable details like upcoming classes, class costs, and payment options. Skipper is also here to help you, our trusted AI coach specializing in giving out personalized recommendations!

Exploring a Career in CNA Outside South Carolina

If you're dreaming of being a CNA but find yourself in a different state, fear not — your dreams are still achievable. You might find your path to becoming a CNA in locations such as California, Indiana, Texas, Pennsylvania, or Wisconsin. And if these don't match your current location, Dreambound simplifies the journey by helping you easily search and compare CNA classes using just your zip code. With commitment and the right resources like Dreambound, entering healthcare is possible from anywhere.

How Do I Register for a CNA Exam?

Once you've finished your training, it's time to apply to take the CNA exam!

Credentia is the state-contracted provider of the NNAAP exam in SC. They have an online registration system called Credentia365 that makes it super convenient for you to schedule your exam. Make sure to register within two years of completing your CNA training program. If the two years lapse, you must undergo training again before taking the exam. If you're wondering "How much is the CNA exam in SC?", we got you covered! Below is a breakdown of the fees.

The CNA Exam fees in SC as of July 2024 are broken down as follows:

Exam Types and Fees:

• Initial Written Examination: $45
• Initial Oral Examination: $45
• Initial Clinical Examination: $95
• Written Re-examination: $45
• Oral Re-examination: $45
• Clinical Re-examination: $95
• Certificate Renewal Fee: $35

The SC CNA state exam

Preparing for the SC CNA state exam is an important milestone on your journey to becoming a licensed CNA. The comprehensive exam consists of two parts and evaluates your knowledge and skills.

1. The written exam:

The written part is a test with 70 questions about what you've learned during your training. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass.

It will cover the following topics:

• Physical care skills

• Psychosocial care skills

• Role of the nurse aide

You can also opt to take an oral exam in English should you have difficulty reading. Make sure to request an oral exam during registration if needed.

2. The skills exam:

You must execute five randomly chosen nurse aide skills during the skills evaluation. Before beginning, your Nurse Aide Evaluator will hand you a card with the list of skills assigned to you. They will show you where to find equipment and answer any questions you may have. You must execute all five nurse aide skills successfully to pass.

Here is a list of 23 skills the NNAAP includes in its evaluation. Make sure to learn them by heart!

1. Hand hygiene (hand washing)

2. Applies one knee-high elastic stocking

3. Assists with ambulating using a transfer belt

4. Assists with the use of a bedpan

5. Cleans upper or lower denture

6. Counts and records radial pulse

7. Counts and records respirations

8. Donning and removing PPE (gown and gloves)

9. Dresses client with affected (weak) right arm)

10. Feeds client who cannot feed self

11. Gives modified bed bath (face and one arm, hand and underarm)

12. Measures and records electronic blood pressure

13. Measures and records urinary output

14. Measures and records the weight of the ambulatory client

15. Performs modified passive range of motion (PROM) for one knee and one ankle

16. Performs modified passive range of motion (PROM) for one shoulder

17. Positions on side

18. Provides catheter care for female

19. Provides foot care on one foot

20. Provides mouth care

21. Provides perineal care (peri-care) for female

22. Transfers from bed to wheelchair using transfer belt

23. Measures and records manual blood pressure

How do I prepare for my CNA exam?

When it comes to taking the exam, being well-prepared is the key! The good news is you can take your written or oral exam online from the comfort of your home.

Should you choose to do so, prepare the following:

• Well-equipped computer with a webcam

• Mobile phone

• Private room that is well-lit and with no distractions

• Two forms of proper identification

If you're having your exams at a test center, make sure to bring the following:

• Two forms of proper identification

• Three no. 2 pencils

• Eraser

• Watch with a secondhand

Before taking the exam, make sure to study and have hands-on practice thoroughly. For more tips and valuable resources on preparing, check out our blog post on how to get ready for the CNA exam.

How do I get listed and get a job as a CNA?

Once you've aced that exam, your name will be on SC's Nurse Aide Registry about ten days later. You may view or search for your name on Credentia's official website. Congratulations, you're officially a CNA!

Now it’s time to put those skills to work. CNAs can work in hospitals, nursing homes, and even privately in people's homes. You can find job listings on job boards or nursing home websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a CNA in South Carolina?

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in South Carolina typically takes between 4 to 12 weeks. This includes completion of a state-approved training program, which consists of at least 100 hours of instruction, both in the classroom and clinical settings.

What can a CNA do in South Carolina?

CNAs in South Carolina play a crucial role in healthcare, providing basic care to patients. Their duties include assisting with personal hygiene, monitoring vital signs, helping with mobility, and reporting health changes to nurses.

Can a CNA change a colostomy bag in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, a CNA may assist with colostomy care under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). However, the specific tasks a CNA can perform may vary based on their training and the policies of their employer.

How to transfer a CNA license to South Carolina?

If you're a CNA moving to South Carolina, you can apply for reciprocity. This process involves creating an account at the Credentia platform and submitting a reciprocity application along with verification of your current certification and proof of employment as a CNA.

How do I keep my CNA license active in South Carolina? How many hours do you have to work to keep your nursing license active in SC?

To keep your CNA license active in South Carolina, you must perform at least one paid nursing-related service every 24 months and it should be at least 8 hours. The services performed should also be supervised by an RN or LPN. This ensures your skills stay current and you maintain your eligibility to work as a CNA.

How do I renew my expired CNA license in South Carolina?

If your CNA license has expired in South Carolina, you can apply for license renewal with Credentia.

If you've not completed a 100-hour state-approved nurse aide training program or if your certification lapsed over two years ago, you'll need to complete a 100-hour training program and pass both the Written and Skills Evaluation Exams.

However, if your certification hasn't expired for more than 24 months and you've previously completed the required training, you'll only need to pass the Exams to reactivate your certification.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, future CNAs of South Carolina! You're now armed with the know-how to navigate your CNA journey. Remember, your compassion and dedication will shine through as you care for others. So go ahead, spread those smiles, make a positive impact, and embrace your rewarding path in healthcare. You've got this!

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

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

Pondering a shift in your career path or exploring different professional avenues? Dreambound has created detailed guides to support you in making informed decisions:

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