With an exam consisting of 85 questions, plus state requirements, you need to take Illinois CNA classes.
If you're interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant in Illinois, you must first meet one of five sets of requirements. One set of requirements involves completing Illinois CNA classes and passing a written competency exam.
Certified nurse aides must complete CNA training programs that have been approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The department has approved more than 100 training programs and CNA certificate programs, so classes are available throughout Illinois.
If you are unable to commute to campus, check to see if any online CNA courses are available. Taking courses online can help you save money on gasoline and other commuting costs. Online courses are also ideal for those who work full time or have family obligations that prevent them from attending on-campus classes.
The content of a CNA course differs slightly from one school to another, but students in these courses typically learn about:
- Anatomy and physiology.
- Body mechanics.
- Medical terminology.
- Personal care of patients.
Students also learn how to take vital signs such as temperature and blood pressure.
Find Illinois CNA classes that meet your needs! Apply today!
Some schools may require students who want to enroll in Illinois CNA classes to take entrance examinations or pass a basic reading course. Some schools also require prospective students to pass a criminal background check and drug test before enrolling in classes.
Completing Illinois CNA classes is not a guarantee that you will become a certified nursing assistant. You must pass the written examination before you qualify for nursing assistant jobs. The exam contains 85 multiple-choice questions covering patient care, safety issues, patient transport and communication skills. You will have a maximum of 90 minutes to complete the test.
The exam is administered by Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, but several test sites are located throughout the state. Anyone who fails the exam three times must take another CNA training course before attempting to take the exam again.
If you complete the test and meet the other requirements for Illinois nursing assistants, you will be added to the Health Care Worker Registry.
Once you receive your Illinois CNA certification and meet the requirements for the state registry, you must work as a nursing assistant in order to keep your registry listing active. If you do not provide services for a period of 24 consecutive months, you will lose your status as a certified nursing assistant.
You may accomplish certification renewal by passing a skills test or retaking CNA classes and passing the written exam again.
As a certified nursing assistant, you may transfer patients between their wheelchairs and beds, help them feed themselves, assist them with daily activities, take their vital signs and document any health issues they may have.
If this career interests you, contact nursing schools to find out where to take Illinois CNA classes in your area. Reply! can help you locate the program nearest to you.
Photo credit: kern.justin via Compfight CC.