• Education
  • |
  • Washington CNA training explained

Washington CNA training explained

Washington CNA training requires a total of 75 hours, with 16 hours dedicated to hands-on clinical practice. Find out more.

Washington CNA training can be found outside of Seattle. Photo by .Bala on Flickr.In just about every medical setting in the state, you will find a certified nursing assistant (CNA) who goes through approved Washington CNA training. Take a closer look at what is required to become a certified nursing assistant and obtain a secure job position in the field.

CNA training in the classroom

In the state of Washington, nursing assistants must complete CNA training that involves 75 hours of formal training from a learning institution or a medical facility.

At least 16 of these training hours must be practical application in a clinical setting. During these 16 hours, students are not only taught the skills and responsibilities necessary to perform well in their future job positions, but are also given the opportunity to use the skills they have learned under the direct supervision of a licensed professional.

CNA classes can be taken through programs available at local learning institutions and medical facilities. You can choose to take online CNA courses for the classroom portion of a program. However, all students must complete a minimum of 16 hours composed of observing and working in a medical setting.

Classes begin soon. Find your Washington CNA training program and apply today!

State testing requirements

Once a student has completed an approved CNA training program that includes the required hours of study, he or she is eligible to apply for a state nursing exam administered by the Washington Department of Health. This exam is set forth to help ensure that each and every nursing assistant in the state has had the training and possesses the skills necessary to function well in any job position in the medical field.

Once you pass the state test, you will receive official certification. Thereafter, you can begin your search for a job.

Certification renewal requirements

Most states require their certified nursing assistants to renew their certification every two or three years. In the state of Washington, nursing assistants are required to renew their certification every year.

New information is continuously being discovered and made available in the medical profession. Procedures are often updated, and it is not uncommon for equipment to be upgraded as well.

While continuing education is not an official requirement, many nursing schools in Washington offer refresher courses to CNAs to help keep them up to date on available information and changes. These courses are designed to help ensure you pass your annual certification renewal tests.

Working as a CNA in Washington can be a rewarding career for many people. However, in order to work in a related field, Washington CNA training is necessary. In addition, state testing is mandatory. If you still have questions about becoming a CNA, you can use the Reply! service to search for the answers.

Photo credit: .Bala via Compfight CC.