A career as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) in Ohio is a rewarding choice for those passionate about healthcare and helping others. Below, you can read about the requirements, the Ohio STNA exam, and finding "CNA classes near me" to reach your dream career as a fully pledged STNA in Ohio!

Key Points

• A State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) assists with daily living activities and provides basic care in healthcare settings.
• To become an STNA in Ohio, you must complete a 75-hour training program, pass a background check, and successfully pass the state exam to get your STNA license.
• The STNA training program in Ohio lasts approximately 3 weeks but can be longer.
• The average cost for STNA classes in Ohio is $593, with the state exam costing $104 ($78 for the skills portion and $26 for the written test).
• In Ohio, the average STNA salary ranges from $17 to $19 per hour.

What is an STNA?

A State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) is a healthcare professional responsible for assisting patients with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. In Ohio, STNAs perform the same functions as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in other states. STNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare settings, providing essential support to patients and medical staff.

What is the Difference Between an STNA and a CNA?

State Tested Nurse Aides, or STNAs, are the same as CNAs in other states. Ohio just decided to go with the STNA name. STNAs help residents in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, hospitals, and even at home with activities of daily living (ADLs). This includes helping them eat, bathe, and monitor their overall health.

Where Do STNAs Work?

STNAs can work in various healthcare settings, including:

• Nursing Homes: Providing long-term patient care.
• Hospitals: Assisting medical staff with patient care tasks.
• Home Healthcare Agencies: Supporting patients in their homes.
• Assisted Living Facilities: Helping residents with daily activities.

Requirements to Become an STNA in Ohio

• Complete state-recognized training: Ohio STNA programs are the shortest in the country, requiring only 75 hours: 59 hours of class lectures and 16 hours of clinical. Lectures may be done online, but clinicals must be done in person at a partner nursing home in order to get your cna certification.
• Pass a background check: STNA schools run a county background check before class. To start an STNA class, candidates can't have pled guilty or been convicted of certain crimes, including those involving theft, violence, or drug possession.
• Have required documents: You need a Social Security Card (if a resident of the US) or an ITIN Number (if not a resident of the US). High School Diplomas/GEDs are not usually required, but some STNA schools in Ohio ask for them. Some schools may require other documents as well, including a TB test, state ID, vaccination records, and a physical exam.
• Pass the exam: In Ohio, STNAs have a four-month grace period before they have to pass the exam. The state exam is run by D&S Diversified Technologies. The exam has a multiple-choice knowledge component and one for practical skills.

How to Become an STNA in Ohio?

1. Find an Approved Training Program

Begin your journey by searching for approved STNA programs through Dreambound, ensuring you meet the minimum criteria of being at least 16 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent; these programs typically consist of 75 hours of training, including 59 hours of classroom lectures and 16 hours of clinical practice.

2. Complete Your STNA Training

Once enrolled, complete your STNA training where you'll receive comprehensive instruction through classroom sessions and hands-on clinical practice; this structured program is designed to build your foundational skills in patient care and prepare you for the state exam.

3. Pass the Ohio STNA Exam

After finishing your training, register for the Ohio STNA exam—available through D&S or your training school—which includes a multiple-choice written test and a skills assessment, with an exam fee of $104 plus an additional $10 for the oral component; using study materials, practice tests, and Ohio-specific YouTube videos can significantly enhance your preparation.

4. Get Listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry

Upon successfully passing the exam, your name will be added to the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry, officially recognizing you as a qualified STNA and making you eligible for employment in various healthcare settings throughout the state.

5. Apply for STNA Jobs

With your certification and registry listing in hand, start exploring job opportunities on platforms like My Next Move and local healthcare facility websites, positioning yourself to take advantage of the growing demand for skilled nurse aides in Ohio.

Where to Find STNA Classes in Ohio

Dreambound provides a directory of STNA training programs in major Ohio cities such as Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Toledo, and Akron. You can also view upcoming STNA class dates via a search by zip code in Ohio.

How to Register for an STNA Exam?

After you complete your 75-hour STNA training, your school will register you for the state exam, or you can register through D&S directly. The Ohio STNA exam costs $104. If you want to take the multiple-choice portion of the exam orally, the exam costs an additional $10.

If you have any issues or need to reschedule your exam, you can contact D&S at:

1. Phone: (877) 851-2355
2. E-mail: [email protected]

You can take the exam up to 3 times. If you are not able to pass within three tries, you will need to retake your STNA class. Each retake costs $26 for the written portion ($36 if oral) and $78 for the clinical portion.

How to Prepare for an STNA Exam?

Preparing for your STNA exam can be a smooth process if you follow these steps. Your STNA school will provide you with various study materials, such as videos and practice tests, to help you get ready. Additionally, D&S offers practice exams, and you can also benefit from Ohio-specific YouTube videos to study for the skills portion of the test. Here's what you have to do:

1. Review the materials provided by your STNA school: This might include videos, practice tests, and other resources tailored to the exam. Make sure to go through these thoroughly to familiarize yourself with the exam format and content.

2. Take advantage of practice exams offered by D&S: These practice tests will give you a feel for the types of questions you’ll encounter and help you assess your readiness. Take these exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual test environment.

3. Watch YouTube videos focused on the skills portion of the exam: Look for videos specifically related to Ohio’s STNA exam to ensure the content is relevant. These YouTube videos can offer valuable tips and visual demonstrations of the skills you'll need to perform.

4. Combine your study methods: Use the practice tests, school materials, and videos together to reinforce your knowledge and skills. This approach will help you feel more confident and prepared for the exam.

5. Review regularly and seek help if needed: Schedule regular study sessions and don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for clarification on any topics you're struggling with. Consistent review and support will boost your readiness for the exam.

How to Get a Job as an STNA?

Finding a job as an STNA in Ohio can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps. While you can work for up to 4 months before passing the state exam, it's often beneficial to start your job search early. Many employers prefer candidates who have already passed their exams, so planning ahead can be advantageous. Here's what you have to do:

1. Check your STNA licensure status: Before applying for jobs, make sure to check your licensure status on the nurse aide registry. This ensures that you are eligible to work and helps you keep track of any requirements.

2. Start applying for STNA jobs while in class: It's a good idea to begin your job search before you finish your training. Look for job openings on job boards, and consider applying to positions at local hospitals or the facility where you did your clinicals.

3. Explore job opportunities at your clinical facility or local hospitals: Many students find job opportunities at the facilities where they completed their clinical training. These places are familiar with your skills and may be more willing to hire you.

4. Utilize recommendations from your STNA school: Your STNA school may have connections or recommendations for job placements. Take advantage of these resources to find potential job openings and get advice on where to apply.

5. Follow up on your applications and stay persistent: After submitting your applications, follow up with employers to express your interest and check on the status of your application. Persistence can often lead to job opportunities, even if you don’t hear back immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an STNA in Ohio?

Becoming an STNA in Ohio typically takes around three weeks. The training program consists of 75 hours, which includes 59 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of clinical experience. After completing the training, candidates must pass the state exam, which includes both written and practical components, to become certified.

How much does it cost to get your STNA license in Ohio?

In Ohio, the average cost for STNA classes is approximately $593. The state exam costs an additional $104, divided into $78 for the skills portion and $26 for the written test. Some costs may vary based on the training provider and additional resources required.

How much does an STNA make in Ohio?

The average starting salary for an STNA in Ohio ranges from $17 to $19 per hour. This salary can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility where one is employed.

Can I get my STNA online in Ohio?

No, you cannot complete STNA training entirely online in Ohio. The state requires 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of in-person clinical experience at a licensed facility. While some coursework may be offered online, the hands-on clinical training must be conducted in person.

What does STNA stand for?

STNA stands for State Tested Nurse Aide. It is the designation used in Ohio for individuals who have completed state-approved training and testing to become certified to assist with patient care in various healthcare settings.

Do you have to go to school to be an STNA in Ohio?

Yes. In Ohio, you do need to complete a state-approved training program which usually involves around 75 hours of training, including both classroom instruction and clinical practice.

What are the requirements to keep your STNA license in Ohio? How long is your STNA license good for in Ohio?

To keep your STNA license active in Ohio, you must work at least 7.5 consecutive hours, or 8 hours in a 48-hour period, in a nursing-related job every 24 months. Your STNA license is valid for two years and should be renewed with the Ohio Department of Health's Nurse Aide Registry.

What state pays the most for STNA?

The District of Columbia leads the nation in STNA/CNA pay with an average salary of $20.50 per hour or $42,640 annually according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics!

What is the passing score for STNA in Ohio?

To pass the STNA exam in Ohio, you must get a score of at least 70% for the written portion. For the skills evaluation, successfully demonstrating 5 randomly selected nursing assistant skills is required. Both portions must be passed within 24 months of training completion.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an STNA in Ohio opens doors to numerous career opportunities and is a fulfilling step towards a career in healthcare. With the right STNA classes and preparation, you'll be well-equipped to excel in the exam and find rewarding STNA jobs near you.

Begin your STNA journey today by exploring training programs through Dreambound. Take the first step toward a meaningful career in 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:

• Become a CNA in 3 easy steps
• CNA classes near me
• Become a CNA in High School
• CNA in Texas
• CNA in California
• CNA in Pennsylvania

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