Nursing Assistant Questions and Answers

Is there any way to study from the CNA book on your own and just take the exam? I am sure doing clinicals is required. Is there anyway to sign up for just clinicals and not the class?
State regulations determine if you are allowed to challenge the CNA competency exam without first completing a nursing assistant training program. Very few states do allow this and you may check the rules for your state by contacting the nurse aide registry.

Why is it so hard to find a job as a CNA if there is such a high demand for them? I challenged the state test back in April of 2009 and I received my CNA license along with my CPR, basic first aid and BLS certificates and everywhere that I apply they are asking for at least one year of experience in the field and I don't qualify, so what do I do next? I think that I have covered just about every nursing home and hospital in my area and everyone is asking for experience. I have even offered to volunteer and they would not accept it. I am starting to get discouraged.
I understand why you might feel discouraged after searching for an open position at all those facilities and not finding one. Unemployment is high in all areas due to the the difficult economic times that we are all experiencing right now, and as a result employers have many applicants for open positions and can afford to demand previous work experience. I want to encourage you to keep trying to find a CNA job, and to use all the possible resources to locate one in your area. Local newspapers and online job search engines can be a good start. Some of the online listings I looked at did not require experience, but only certification as a CNA. My advice is to keep checking daily, as new jobs are being posted and to not give up. Good luck!

Read Answers to Related Questions

I live in Utah and I have finished my CNA training and have only two more days of clinicals. I do have some hearing loss and very little feeling in the tips of my fingers. What sort of letter does my doctor need to provide for me to take with me for my state exam?

I would like to take the Pennsylvania state test for CNA. Where do I begin?

What type of work experience is required to become a CNA program coordinator for an approved training and competency evaluation program in Ohio?

My CNA license expired. I live in Missouri. How do I renew it?

I am interested in registering for the CNA program at your facility. I would like to know, who at your college teaches CNA programs and are you accredited for the nursing including the CNA program?

I do not have my GED but I am working on getting it. I want to start taking CNA classes as soon as possible. Will I still be able to become a CNA?

I am a graduate of a nursing program from the Philippines. I am a bachelor of science in nursing degree holder and I live in California. Can I take the CNA test before challenging the NCLEX exam to be an RN?

What is your advice regarding accelerated nursing assistant programs? Is an accelerated CNA course as good as a traditional one?

How do I get a copy of my CNA license?

Can you have a misdemeanor and still become a CNA?

How do I find out if my CNA certification expired?

Are there any additional training requirements for nursing assistants working in assisted living facilities, such as CPR, First Aid, etc?

Will a flag on the CNA Registry prevent me from becoming a practical nurse?

What do I need to do to keep my CNA certification current?

How can I get a new CNA license if I lost or misplaced the original?

I want to take the CNA exam. I have heard that the exam will be using a computer. Is it true?

How do I find a school in my area that offers a CNA program?

I would like to get the CNA training videos, because I teach classes at a small nurse agency, and I would like the care provided to be the best for the client. How can I do this?

How long does it take after taking the nursing assistant state exam to get the results from your test?

How can I recertify my CNA license?

When and where I can take the CNA exam?

Am I too old to become a CNA?

I worked as a CNA from 1999 to 2008. Since then I have not worked as a CNA and was wondering if I would be able to challenge the exam or if I would have to take the class over again?

How can I get the free CNA training videos and CNA practice exams? Can you mail them to me?

Do I have to take the CNA course again if my certification expired?

How do I check the status of my CNA certification?

When does my CNA license expire?

Can I be registered as a CNA in more than one state?

Can I get my CNA license number online?

How do I renew my nurse aide certificate?

Can I renew my CNA certification online?

Is it typical to use a recruiting service or agency to get job placement after becoming a certified nursing assistant?

Can I join a CNA training course as a J-2 visa holder?

Could you give some examples of questions I might be asked at a CNA job interview? I just got my CNA license, and I am going to be looking for a job.

Where can I find free online practice tests for the nursing assistant exam?

Is it possible to take the CNA test without enrolling in a training class?

Can I enroll in an online CNA class if I don't have a high school diploma or GED?

Why is it so hard to get hired as a CNA? Everywhere that I apply they are asking for at least one year of experience in the field so what do I do next?

How can I further my education in nursing?

Can a nursing assistant from Brazil challenge the CNA exam?

CNA Resources

What is a Nursing Assistant?

A CNA is an entry level, certified healthcare worker. To obtain CNA certification, a nursing assistant trainee must complete a series of courses which teach the student basic skills needed to assist with patient care. A nurse aide is knowledgeable about client safety and transportation, assisting with activities of daily living, communicating with clients and nursing staff, performing basic procedures such as taking vital signs and weighing, and recording intake and output. A certified nursing assistant spends the majority of their working time at the patient's bedside, providing comfort, hygiene, and support.


State approved CNA training programs teach nurse aide trainees how to become competent care givers. The theoretical section of a nursing assistant program is augmented by the clinical portion, by reinforcing and practicing the knowledge gained in the classroom. The length of a nurse aide course depends on the facility providing the training. Some programs may require as little as three weeks to complete, while others may take two to three months. Fast paced courses are not for everyone, and students have the option to enroll in lengthier programs such as those offered by community colleges. A nurse aide trainee who completes the training is eligible to take the CNA exam. Passing this important examination results in certification and listing on the state nurse aide registry.


Employment opportunities for certified nursing assistants are numerous. The skills of a CNA are needed especially in hospitals, long term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Other nursing assistant job opportunities exist in the community, such as Home Health Aide. Hospitals may offer educational opportunities and financial incentives to nursing assistants who wish to continue their education and become licensed vocational nurses, or registered nurses.

CNA Training Programs

Nurse Aide Registries