How to Become a CNA in Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide (2023)

Introduction: Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Virginia is an exciting career path that requires dedication and commitment. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through all the steps and requirements to help you achieve your goal of becoming a CNA in Virginia. From meeting the prerequisites to obtaining your CNA certificate, we've got you covered. So let's dive in!

Step #1: Meet the Prerequisites Before embarking on your journey to become a CNA in Virginia, it is essential to ensure that you meet all the prerequisites. These prerequisites include:

• Being at least 18 years old (16 years old if you have a high school diploma)
• Passing a background check
• Having a negative Tuberculosis test result
• Passing a medical exam
• Providing proof of immunization
• Having the ability to communicate effectively in English
• Holding a CPR card

Note: It's important to mention that individuals with minor offenses are still eligible to receive a CNA certification.

Step #2: Complete a CNA Training To become a CNA in Virginia, you are required to complete a minimum of 120 hours of CNA training. This training should consist of at least 80 hours of classroom and lab instruction, as well as a minimum of 40 hours of supervised clinical training. During your training, you will learn various essential topics, including:

• Bathing and dress procedures
• Taking and recording vital signs
• Infection control
• Communication
• Handwashing techniques
• Basics of anatomy and physiology

Remember, it is crucial to choose a Virginia Board of Nursing-approved program to ensure that your training meets the state's requirements.

Step #3: Pass the NNAAP Exam After successfully completing your CNA training, it's time to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam to obtain your certification. In Virginia, the exam is administered by Credentia and consists of two parts:

1. Written (or oral) test: This section requires you to answer 70 multiple-choice questions within a two-hour timeframe. To pass, you must achieve a score of at least 75%.

2. Skills evaluation: In this part of the exam, you will need to demonstrate your competency in performing five nurse aide skills within 30 minutes. The skills you are required to perform will be selected randomly, and a Nurse Aide Evaluator will assess your performance.

To register for the NNAAP exam, follow these steps:

1. Create a Credentia account.
2. Submit your exam application online.
3. Wait for your application to be approved.
4. Schedule your exam through the online portal.
5. Pay the exam fee, which amounts to $140 for both the written/oral test and skills evaluation.

On your exam day, remember to bring two proofs of identification, three pencils with erasers, and a watch with a second hand.

Step #4: Get Your CNA Certificate Upon successfully passing the NNAAP exam, Credentia will list your name in the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry. Aspiring CNAs must simply wait for their CNA certificate to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions About CNAs in Virginia:

1. How much does a CNA make in Virginia? On average, CNAs in Virginia earn approximately $30,000 per year. However, the actual salary may vary based on the employing institution and your level of experience.

2. How long does it take to complete CNA training in Virginia? CNA training in Virginia typically consists of at least 120 hours. The duration of the training will depend on your program provider and can range from two to four months.

3. How much does a CNA class cost in Virginia? The cost of CNA training in Virginia varies depending on the provider. On average, you can expect to pay around $500 to $1,000+.

4. How much does the CNA exam cost in Virginia? To take the NNAAP exam in Virginia, you will need to pay a total of $140. This fee includes $45 for the written/oral test and $95 for the skills evaluation.

5. How long is a Virginia CNA certificate valid? A CNA certificate in Virginia is valid for two years.

6. Is a high school diploma required to become a CNA in Virginia? No, a high school diploma is not required to become a CNA in Virginia. However, having a diploma may increase your chances of being hired as a CNA. Additionally, individuals who are 16 years old and possess a high school diploma can participate in CNA training.

7. Can CNAs draw blood in Virginia? No, CNAs are not authorized to draw blood in Virginia. However, if you wish to perform this task, you can pursue additional training and certification.

Conclusion: Congratulations on completing this comprehensive guide on how to become a CNA in Virginia! By following the steps outlined, you are now well-equipped to embark on your journey towards becoming a certified nursing assistant. Remember, dedication, hard work, and a passion for helping others are key qualities that will contribute to your success in this rewarding career. Best of luck as you take your first step towards making a difference in the healthcare field!