Nursing Assistant Licensing Requirements

Nursing Assistant Licensing Requirements For thoseinterested in pursuing a career in the medicalfield, obtaining your certification as a NursingAssistance can be exactly what you are looking for.While the specifications for licensing vary bystate, all programs have basic elements. First,you must be able to pass a background check. Thisis for the safety of all patients and other staff.Some states only look at felony convictions,while others look for reckless behaviorsincluding harassment, domestic violence, anddriving under the influence of alcohol. Most

programs also require a GED or High Schooldiploma.Nursing Assistant programs are generally run byhealthcare facilities and local colleges.Contact any such facility for a listing of upcoming classes in your area. Generally, thecourses run from four weeks to twelve weeks inlength. You will be required to complete a setamount of hours of classroom time as well as a setamount of hours of clinicals. These clinicals arehands on practice that takes place at a medicalfacility. You will not be paid for your hoursworked during this training program. Federal lawrequires a minimum of 75 hours in any program, allof which must be supervised by a qualifiedRegistered Nurse.Upon completing all of your classroom hours andclinical training, you will then be required totake a Certified Nursing Assistant exam. Thisexam is held periodically throughout each state.

Some agencies will allow you to secure employmentas a Nursing Assistant during that period of timebetween completing the program and your scheduledexam. Often, verification of program completionand verification that you are registered to takethe test are sufficient.This comprehensive exam is made up of two parts,written and clinical. The written part of the testis said to be mainly common sense. The clinicalportion will require you to perform a number oftechniques that you will be using in your job. YouNursing Assistant program instructor will informyou of items you should be well skilled in for theexam. In addition, forming your own study groupand taking online practice tests can help you feelconfident as the date of the test arrives.The Nursing Assistant licensing requirements aredesigned to ensure everyone obtaining acertification from the program is properlytrained in policies and procedures. Precautions

are taken for the safety of the patients, theirfamilies, and other medical staff members. It isimportant to understand that the program willonly help you to learn the basics of the job. Thespecific job requirements will depend on thefacility you are working for. You will receiveeither orientation or on the job training at eachmedical facility you begin employment with in thearea of Nursing Assistant.With the demand for Nursing Assistants very highright now, it is an excellent career to pursue.The demand is anticipated to continue growing,with the biggest demands being in facilitiescaring for the elderly. This is the result ofpeople living longer on average.If you have any questions about the NursingAssistant licensing requirements in your state,contact your state Medical Board by phone oronline. The interest also provides you willadditional information on licensing, classes,

and career development in the area of NursingAssistant.PPPPPWord Count 551