Florida CNA Certification

(found 216 schools, updated in January 2018)

Do you want to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida? If your answer is yes, it is the right place for you. Following is an in-depth guide to becoming a CNA in Florida. In the guide, you will find different routes to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, how to choose the right CNA training program, entrance requirements, curriculum and estimated costs, a list of top rated CNA classes, how to pass the CNA certification exam and hold your active certificate, the latest CNA salary facts by city and job outlook in Florida.

SHOW ME SCHOOLS

Step 1: Choose a Path

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There are multiple paths to becoming a CNA in Florida, and you should understand all of them so you can select the one that is right for you.

Five Certification Routes by Examination

There are five routes for becoming eligible to take the CNA examination in Florida. The exam is administered by Prometric, a vendor approved by the Florida Department of Health (DOH).

1. E-1 – You have never been a nursing assistant in another state and have completed a state-approved training program.

2. E-2 – You are enrolled in, but have not completed, a state-approved training program and have never been a nursing assistant in another state. You must indicate the day the training program will be completed and the training program code. After the training is completed, the program coordinator will submit an electronic notification to the Florida Board of Nursing that you successfully completed the program.

3. E-3 – You can take the exam as a challenger if you have no formal training in any state as a nursing assistant and have no CNA experience, but believe you can pass the test anyway. If you fail any exam section three times within a two-year period, you will have to complete a Florida state-approved CNA training program that is at least 120 hours long and then retake the exam. Even if you pass, the lack of formal training may still prove to be an employment barrier.

4. E-4 – You have some training and hands-on nursing experience, but have not completed a Florida state-approved training program. This route also includes people who followed the E-1 route, but only passed one of the CNA certification tests and have not passed the second exam section in two years.

5. E-5 – This route is for people who were once a CNA, in any state, but their certification expired.

Certification Route by Reciprocity

Sometimes nursing assistants move from one state to another and want reciprocity. This means Florida would recognize their out-of-state certificate and training. Florida Statute Section 464.203 sets the following rules for eligibility:

• The person must be certified as a CNA in a different state
• The person’s name should be current in the other state’s CNA registry
• The person must not been found to have committed certain crimes like neglect or abuse in the originating state nor been convicted of, or pled guilty to, any of the felonies mentioned in the preceding section on CNA by examination

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Step 2: Go to CNA Schools in Florida

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There are numerous CNA training programs in Florida, but to get into any of them you must meet the minimum entrance requirements. The most important thing to know up front is that you should ONLY attend a CNA program approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. The school directory is updated in January 2018.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Florida

SHOW ME SCHOOLS

City	CNA Program (With Exam Pass Rate in 2016)	Address	Phone
West Palm Beach	Academy for Nursing and Health Occupations (84.1%) www.anho.edu	5154 Okeechobee Boulevard, Suite 201	(561) 683-1400
Crystal River	Academy of Health Careers - Crystal River High School (72%) crh.citrusschools.org	3195 Crystal River High Drive	(352) 795-4641
Gainesville	Academy of Health Professions (93.3%) gainesville.sbac.edu	1900 NW 13th Street	(352) 955-6707
Jacksonville	Affordable Training (73.3%) www.cnaat.org	7867 Lakeland Street	(904) 378-0102
Boca Raton	Agape College of Sciences, LLC	9737 Parkview Avenue	(954) 856-3074
Tampa	Aguilas International Technical Institute (Probationary Period) (60.5%) www.agmedtech.com	7520 West Waters Avenue, Suite 19	(813) 871-2407
Oakland Park	All State Home Health Institute (100%)	1871 West Oakland Park Boulevard	(954) 731-8373
Jacksonville	American Red Cross (74.5%) www.redcross.org	751 Riverside Avenue	(727) 209-3562
Rockledge	American Red Cross (80.4%) www.redcross.org	1700 Cedar Street	(727) 209-3562
Saint Petersburg	American Red Cross (87.7%) www.redcross.org	818 4th Street North	(727) 209-3562
Sarasota	American Red Cross (78.7%) www.redcross.org	2001 Cantu Court	(727) 209-3562
Miami	American Senior High School (77.4%) americanshs.org	18350 NW 67th Ave	(305) 557-3770
Holiday	Anclote High School (100%) ahs.pasco.k12.fl.us	1540 Sweetbriar Drive	(727) 246-3000
Bradenton	Angel Technical Institute Nursing School, LLC angeltechnical.com	453 Cortez Road West	(941) 251 6976
Pine Hills	Annshellay Health Spa and Fitness Institute	618 Pine Hills Road	(407) 399-1764
Tampa	Aparicio Levy Technical College www.sdhc.k12.fl.us	5410 North 20th Street	(813) 231-1886
Hialeah	ASA College www.asa.edu	530 West 49th Street	(786) 279-2643
Sarasota	AT Your Service Education, LLC	3617 Webber Street	(941) 552-8043
Spring Hill	ATA Career Education www.atafl.edu	7351 Spring Hill Drive, Suite 11	(352) 684-3007
Fort Lauderdale	Atlantic Technical College - Arthur Ashe www.atlantictechnicalcollege.edu	1701 NW 23rd Avenue	(754) 322-2838
Coconut Creek	Atlantic Technical College and Technical High School (Probationary Period) www.atlantictechnicalcollege.edu	4700 Coconut Creek Parkway	(754) 322-2838
Macclenny	Baker County Adult Education Center (92.9%) www.bakerk12.org	523 West Minnesota Avenue	(904) 259-0408
Glen Saint Mary	Baker County High School (92%) www.bakerk12.org	1 Wildcat Drive	(904) 259-6286
Bartow	Bartow Senior High School (85%) www.bartowhighschool.com	1270 South Broadway Avenue	(863) 224-3727
Bell	Bell High School Academy of Health Related Professions (64%)	930 South Main Street	(352) 463-3232
Perry	Big Bend Technical College www.bbtc.edu	3233 South Byron Butler Parkway	(850) 838-2545
Gulfport	Boca Ciega High School Center for Wellness and Medical Professions (Probationary Period) (60.7%) www.pcsb.org	924 58th Street South	(727) 893-2780
Starke	Bradford Union Technical Center (75.6%) www.butc.edu	609 North Orange Street	(904) 966-6764
Davie	Brightmed Health Institute (Probationary Period) (50%) www.brightmedhealthinstitute.com	5909 South University Drive	(954) 350-2543
Altamonte Springs	Cambridge Institute of Allied Health and Technology (74.4%) www.cambridgehealth.edu	460 East Altamonte Drive, 3rd Floor	(407) 265-8383
Cape Coral	Cape Coral Technical College (86.3%) www.capecoraltech.edu	360 Santa Barbara Boulevard North	(239) 574-4440
Lake Worth	Capscare Academy for Healthcare Education (66.7%) capscare.org	1776 Lake Worth Road, Suite 101	(561) 547-7371
Oakland Park	Caregivers of Broward Training Institute (Probationary Period) (25%)	2700 West Oakland Park Boulevard, #24	(954) 733-7211
Palm Bay	Carleen Health Institute of South Florida www.carleenhealthinstitute.org	5275 NE Babcock Street, Suite 3	(954) 476-9090
Plantation	Carleen Health Institute of South Florida www.carleenhealthinstitute.org	1876 North University Drive, Suite 200M	(954) 476-9090
West Palm Beach	Carleen Health Institute of South Florida www.carleenhealthinstitute.org	4645 Gun Club Road	(954) 476-9090
Port Charlotte	Charlotte Technical College (Probationary Period) (35.3%) charlottetechcollege.net	18150 Murdock Circle	(941) 255-7500
Chiefland	Chiefland High School (Probationary Period) (63.6%) cmhs.levyschools.org	808 North Main Street	(352) 493-6000
Marianna	Chipola College (72.7%) www.chipola.edu	3094 Indian Circle	(850) 718-2278
Saint Augustine	Clyde E. Lassen Nursing Home floridavets.org	4650 State Road 16	(727) 518-3202
Lake City	Columbia High School (90%) chs.columbiak12.com	469 SE Fighting Tiger Drive	(386) 755-8080
Miami	Cope Center North Health Science Academy (Probationary Period) (50%) copecenternorth.dadeschools.net	9950 NW 19th Avenue	(305) 836-3300
Miami	Coral Reef Senior High School (80%) crhs.dade.k12.fl.us	10101 SW 152nd Street	(305) 720-3518
Orlando	Cypress Creek High School (50%) cypresscreekhs.ocps.net	1101 Bear Crossing Drive	(407) 852-3400
Daytona Beach	Daytona State College (72.2%) www.daytonastate.edu	1200 West International Speedway Boulevard	(386) 506-3720
Arcadia	DeSoto County Nursing Program (90%) fsc.desotoschools.com	310 West Whidden Street	(863) 993-1333
Arcadia	DeSoto High School Health Science Academy (66.7%) dhs.desotoschools.com	1710 East Gibson Street	(863) 494-3434
Cross City	Dixie Academy of Health Careers (75%) www.dixie.k12.fl.us	16077 Highway 19 North	(352) 498-6447
Miami	Dorothy M. Wallace COPE Center (100%) copeso.dadeschools.net	10225 SW 147th Terrace	(305) 233-1044
Lehigh Acres	East Lee County High School (91.1%) elc.leeschools.net	715 Thomas Sherwin Avenue South	(239) 369-2932
Clermont	East Ridge High School (72.7%) www.lake.k12.fl.us	13322 Excalibur Road	(352) 242-2080
Palm Bay	Eastern Florida State College (100%) www.easternflorida.edu	250 Community College Parkway	(321) 433-7745
Titusville	Eastern Florida State College (76.9%) www.easternflorida.edu	1311 North US 1	(321) 433-7583
Titusville	Eastern Florida State College - Astronaut High School (91.7%) www.easternflorida.edu	800 War Eagle Boulevard	(321) 433-7583
Palm Bay	Eastern Florida State College - Bayside High School (80%) www.easternflorida.edu	1901 Degroodt Road SW	(321) 956-5000
Melbourne	Eastern Florida State College - Melbourne High School (69.2%) www.easternflorida.edu	74 Bulldog Boulevard	(321) 952-5880
Melbourne	Eastern Florida State College - Palm Bay High School www.easternflorida.edu	101 Pirate Lane	(321) 433-7583
Rockledge	Eastern Florida State College - Rockledge High School (93.3%) www.easternflorida.edu	220 Raider Road	(321) 636-3711
DeFuniak Springs	Emerald Coast Technical College www.ectc.edu	761 North 20th Street	(850) 892-1240
Tampa	Erwin Technical College (Probationary Period) (35.7%) www.erwin.edu	2010 East Hillsborough Avenue	(813) 769-5180
Tampa	Erwin Technical College - PN Program (Probationary Period) (50%) www.erwin.edu	2010 East Hillsborough Avenue	(813) 769-5180
Estero	Estero High School Medical Academy (90.9%) est.leeschools.net	21900 River Ranch Road	(239) 947-9400
Miami	Evolution Health Services	P.O. Box 382058	(786) 709-5895
Miami Gardens	Excel Institute www.excelinstitutes.com	111 NW 183 Street, Suite 401	(305) 456-1216
Spring Hill	Experion Medical Academy (Probationary Period) (0%)	2911 Commercial Way	(352) 263-2328
Gainesville	Express Training Services, LLC (Probationary Period) www.expresstrainingservices.com	3911 Newberry Road, Suite B	(352) 338-1193
West Palm Beach	Family Care Training Center (77.8%)	2247 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard	(561) 242-0150
Miami	Felix Varela Senior High School (Probationary Period) (52.4%) www.varelahighschool.org	15255 SW 96th Street	(305) 752-7900
Fernandina Beach	Fernandina Beach High School - Nassau County (83.3%) www.nassau.k12.fl.us	435 Citrona Drive	(904) 261-5713
Tampa	Finlay Institute of Nursing www.finlayinstitute.com	8011 North Himes Avenue, Suite 4	(813) 500-8938
Hudson	Fivay High School - Pasco County (75%) fhs.pasco.k12.fl.us	12115 Chicago Avenue	(727) 246-4000
Palm Coast	Flagler Technical Institute (100%) fti.flaglerschools.com	5400 East Highway 100	(386) 447-4345
Lake City	Florida Gateway College (Probationary Period) (62.5%) www.fgc.edu	149 SE College Place	(386) 754-4354
Key West	Florida Keys Community College (100%) www.fkcc.edu	5901 College Road	(305) 809-3165
Chipley	Florida Panhandle Technical College (83.3%) www.fptc.edu	757 Hoyt Street	(850) 638-1180
Tallahassee	Florida State University Schools (77.8%) www.fsus.school	3000 School House Road	(850) 245-3700
Miami	Florida Vocational Institute (70.6%) www.fvi.edu	7757 West Flagler Street, Suite 220	(305) 665-1911
Fort Myers	Fort Myers Technical College (69.6%) www.fortmyerstech.edu	3800 Michigan Avenue	(239) 334-4544
Quincy	Gadsden Center for Health Education www.gadsdentech.org	201 Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard	(850) 875-8234
Miami	Genesis Vocational Institute (70.9%) www.genesisvocationalinstitute.com	12861 SW 42nd Street	(305) 223-0506
Pensacola	George Stone Technical Center (85.7%) www.georgestonecenter.com	2400 Longleaf Drive	(850) 941-6200
Belle Glade	Glades Central Community High School	1001 SW Avenue M	(561) 993-1947
Gulf Breeze	Gulf Breeze High School Academy for Health & Medical Professions (90.5%) www.gulfbreezehighschool.com	675 Gulf Breeze Parkway	(850) 916-4144
Port Saint Joe	Gulf Coast State College - PN Program (66.7%) www.gulfcoast.edu	3800 Garrison Avenue	(850) 913-3317
New Port Richey	Gulf High School (89.5%) ghs.pasco.k12.fl.us	5355 School Road	(727) 774-3300
Wauchula	Hardee Senior High School hhs.hardee.k12.fl.us	830 Altman Road	(863) 773-3181
Melbourne	Harris Casel Institute harriscasel.com	5000 Stack Boulevard, Suite A-4	(321) 676-4066
Miami	Healing Hands Institute (Probationary Period) (67.2%) www.healinghandsinstitute.net	2141 SW 1st Street, Suite 201	(786) 499-4721
Hialeah	Hialeah Senior High School (Probationary Period) (16.7%) hialeahhigh.org	251 East 47th Street	(305) 822-1500
Hialeah	Hialeah Senior High School Adult Education Center hialeahhigh.org	251 East 47th Street	(305) 822-1500
Tampa	Hillsborough Community College (69.6%) www.hccfl.edu	1602 North 15th Street	(813)259-6520
Naples	Hodges University, Inc www.hodges.edu	2655 Northbrooke Drive	(239) 598-6163
Fort Myers	Horizon Healthcare Institute (100%) www.hhi.education	4048 Evans Avenue, Suite 301	(239) 939-1992
Melbourne	Horizon Healthcare Institute (75%) www.hhi.education	3716 North Wickham Road, Suite 2	(941) 914-4533
Cape Coral	Ida S. Baker High School (92%) ibh.leeschools.net	3500 Agualinda Boulevard	(239) 458-6690
Immokalee	Immokalee Technical College (85.7%) www.itech.edu	508 North 9th Street	(239) 377-9900
Fort Pierce	Indian River State College - Dixie Hendry Campus (50%) www.irsc.edu	3209 Virginia Avenue	(772) 462-7570
Fort Pierce	Indian River State College - Mueller Campus (42.9%) www.irsc.edu	3209 Virginia Avenue	(772) 462-7570
Fort Pierce	Indian River State College - R. Duke Nelson Human Development and Resources Centre (83.3%) www.irsc.edu	3209 Virginia Avenue	(772) 462-7570
Fort Pierce	Indian River State College Chastain Campus (44.4%) www.irsc.edu	3209 Virginia Ave	(772) 462-7570
Riviera Beach	Inlet Grove Community High School (50%) inletgrovehs.com	600 West 28th Street	(561) 602-4120
Lehigh Acres	Institute of Health Careers (100%) instituteofhealthcareers.com	5624 8th Street West	(239) 303-4388
Miami	Interamerican Technical Institute (100%) www.itischool.com	9600 SW 8th Street, Suite 42	(305) 554-9281
Miami	International Training Careers (72.6%) www.internationaltrainingcareers.net	7360 SW 24th Street, Suite 31	(305) 263-9696
New Port Richey	James W. Mitchell High School (72.2%) jwmhs.pasco.k12.fl.us	2323 Little Road	(727) 774-9200
Jensen Beach	Jensen Beach High School (95.8%) jbhs.martinschools.org	2875 NW Goldenrod Road	(772) 232-3500
Miami Gardens	Jetmapp Med Training (66.7%)	18350 NW 2nd Avenue, Suite 402	(786) 520-4064
Miami	John A. Ferguson Senior High School (81.6%) www.fergusonhs.org	15900 SW 56th Street	(305) 408-2700
Jupiter	Jupiter High School (Probationary Period) (0%) website	500 North Military Trail	(561) 748-5700
Melbourne	Keiser University (76.5%) www.keiseruniversity.edu	900 South Babcock Street	(321) 409-4801
Keystone Heights	Keystone Heights High School (100%) khh.oneclay.net	900 SW Orchid Avenue	(352) 473-1489
Tavares	Lake County Schools - Tavares High School www.lake.k12.fl.us	603 North New Hampshire Avenue	(352) 343-3007
Minneola	Lake Minneola High School www.lake.k12.fl.us	101 North Hancock Road	(352) 394-9600
Eustis	Lake Technical Center (69.5%) www.laketech.org	2001 Kurt Street	(352) 589-2250
Lake Worth	Lake Worth Community High School (100%) website	1701 Lake Worth Road	(561) 533-6454
South Miami	Larkin School of Nursing www.larkinhospital.com	6140 SW 70th Street	(305) 284-7723
Leesburg	Leesburg High School (82.1%) www.lhsyellowjackets.com	1401 Yellow Jacket Way	(352) 787-5047
Miami	Lindsey Hopkins Technical College (50%) www.lindseyhopkins.edu	750 NW 20th Street	(305) 324-7060
Milton	Locklin Technical Center (81.8%) www.locklintech.com	5330 Berryhill Road	(850) 983-5700
Naples	Lorenzo Walker Technical College - Day Program (Probationary Period) (57.1%) www.lwtc.edu	3702 Estey Avenue	(239) 377-0995
Naples	Lorenzo Walker Technical College - PN Program (100%) www.lwtc.edu	3702 Estey Avenue	(239) 377-0995
Bradenton	Manatee Technical College (81.1%) manateetech.edu	5520 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard	(941) 752-8100
New Port Richey	Marchman Technical College (73.3%) mtec.pasco.k12.fl.us	7825 Campus Drive	(727) 774-1738
Marianna	Marianna High School Health Science Academy (88.2%) mhs.jcsb.org	3546 Caverns Road	(850) 482-9605
Cape Coral	Mariner High School (100%) mrh.leeschools.net	701 Chiquita Boulevard	(239) 772-3324
Ocala	Marion Technical Institute www.marionschools.net	1014 SW 7th Road	(352) 671-7200
Stuart	Martin County High School (86.4%) mchs.martinschools.org	2801 South Kanner Highway	(772) 219-1800
Orlando	Medical Allied Nursing Academy, Inc (20%)	1809 Grande Pointe Boulevard	(407) 257-3046
Miami	Miami Jackson Senior High School (Probationary Period) (63.2%) jacksonshs.org	1751 NW 36th Street	(305) 634-2621
Miami Gardens	Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College (50%) www.miamilakes.edu	2349 NW 175 Street	(305) 624-9613
Miami Lakes	Miami Lakes Educational Center High School (Probationary Period) (65.1%) www.miamilakes.edu	5780 NW 158th Street	(305) 557-1100
Miami	Miami Northwestern Senior High School (Probationary Period) (58.8%) northwesternbulls.org	1100 NW 71st Street	(305) 836-0991
Miami	Miami Southridge Senior High School (Probationary Period) (61.5%) miamisouthridgeshs.com	19355 SW 114 Avenue	(305) 238-6110
Middleburg	Middleburg High School (76%) mhs.oneclay.net	3750 County Road 220	(904) 213-2100
Naples	Naples Nursing Academy, LLC www.naplesnursingacademy.com	2800 Davis Boulevard, Suite 100	(239) 234-5038
Orange Park	Oakleaf High School ohs.oneclay.net	4035 Plantation Oaks Boulevard	(904) 213-1924
Okeechobee	Okeechobee High School (Probationary Period) (63%) ohs.okee.k12.fl.us	2800 Highway 441 North	(863) 462-5025
Orange Park	Orange Park High School Academy of Health Science (90.3%) oph.oneclay.net	2300 Kingsley Avenue	(904) 529-3497
Orlando	Orange Technical College - Avalon Campus www.orangetechcollege.net	2201 South Crown Hill Boulevard	(407) 246-7060
Orlando	Orange Technical College - Mid Florida Campus www.orangetechcollege.net	2900 West Oak Ridge Road	(407) 246-7060
Orlando	Orange Technical College - Orlando Campus (76.7%) www.orangetechcollege.net	301 West Amelia Street	(407)-246-7060
Winter Garden	Orange Technical College - West Side Campus www.orangetechcollege.net	955 East Story Road	(407) 246-7060
Kissimmee	Osceola High School (75.9%) ochs.osceolaschools.net	420 South Thacker Avenue	(407) 518-5400
Lake Worth	Palm Beach State College - PCT Program (Probationary Period) (60%) www.palmbeachstate.edu	4200 Congress Avenue	(561) 868-3437
Palm Harbor	Palm Harbor University High School (84.4%) www.pcsb.org	1900 Omaha Street	(727) 669-1131
Oakland Park	Paramount Training Services Corp www.cnahha.com	2350 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Suite 650	(954) 921-9577
Riviera Beach	Paramount Training Services Corp (66.7%) www.cnahha.com	4152 West Blue Heron Boulevard, Suite 108	(561) 840-8804
Fort Pierce	Paramount Training Services Corp (100%) www.cnahha.com	2721 South UU Highway 1, Suite 11	(772) 882-4218
Lake Worth	Park Vista Community High School (73.1%) www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us	7900 Jog Road	(561) 491-8431
Dade City	Pasco High School (69.2%) phs.pasco.k12.fl.us	36850 State Road 52	(352) 524-5500
New Port Richey	Pasco-Hernando State College (Probationary Period) (65.6%) www.phsc.edu	10230 Ridge Road	(727) 816-3284
Pensacola	Pensacola State College (25%) www.pensacolastate.edu	1000 College Boulevard	(850) 484-2230
Saint Petersburg	Pinellas Technical College (Probationary Period) (33.3%) www.pcsb.org	901 34th Street South	(727) 893-2500
Kissimmee	Poinciana High School (25%) pnhs.osceolaschools.net	2300 South Poinciana Boulevard	(407) 870-4860
Palatka	Putnam Edge High School (37.5%) www.putnamedge.org	951 Moseley Avenue	(386) 385-7292
West Palm Beach	QM Career Institute (Probationary Period) (62.5%) qmmedicalcareerinstitute.com	4645 Gun Club Road, Suite 23	(561) 305-2635
Lantana	Renaissance Medical Training Center, LLC	3212 Lantana Road	(561) 223-2380
Winter Haven	Ridge Technical College (Probationary Period) www.polkedpathways.com	7700 State Road 544	(863) 419-3060
Live Oak	RIVEROAK Technical College www.riveroaktechnicalcollege.com	415 Pinewood Drive SW	(386) 647-4216
Miami	Robert Morgan Educational Center - High School (68%) robertmorganeducenter.com	18180 SW 122 Avenue	(305) 253-9920
Miami	Robert Morgan Educational Center - PCT Program (Probationary Period) (50%) robertmorganeducenter.com	18180 SW 122 Avenue	(305) 253-9920
Royal Palm Beach	Royal Palm Beach Community High School (92.3%) rpbhs.org	10600 Okeechobee Boulevard	(561) 792-8696
Miami	Ruben Dario Education Center (60%) rubendarioms.org	350 NW 97th Avenue	(305) 226-0179
Saint Cloud	Saint Cloud High School (Probationary Period) (58.3%) schs.osceolaschools.net	2100 Bulldog Lane	(407) 891-3100
Palatka	Saint Johns River State College www.sjrstate.edu	5001 Saint Johns Avenue	(386) 312-4069
Fort Pierce	Saint Lucie County School Board (93.3%) www.stlucie.k12.fl.us	1801 Panther Lane	(772) 468-5400
Port Saint Lucie	Saint Lucie West Centennial High School (92.9%) schools.stlucie.k12.fl.us	1485 SW Cashmere Boulevard	(772) 344-4412
Gainesville	Santa Fe College (93.5%) www.sfcollege.edu	3000 NW 83 Street	(352) 395-5731
Sebastian	Sebastian River High School (88.9%) www.indianriverschools.org	9001 90th Boulevard	(772) 564-4335
Sanford	Seminole High School Academy of Health Careers (83.3%) www.seminolehs.scps.k12.fl.us	2701 Ridgewood Avenue	(407) 320-5062
Lauderhill	Siena Education Center, LLC (Probationary Period) (0%)	7272 West Oakland Park Boulevard	(954) 484-4443
North Miami	Sinai School of Nursing, LLC	540 NW 165th Street Road Suite 302	(305) 945-5677
Homestead	South Dade Senior High School A Magnet School (55%) sdshs.net	28401 SW 167th Avenue	(305) 247-4244
Homestead	South Dade Technical College www.southdadetech.edu	109 NE 8 Street	(305) 248-5723
Stuart	South Fork High School (90.6%) sfhs.martinschools.org	10000 SW Bulldog Way	(772) 219-1840
Fort Myers	South Fort Myers High School (94.4%) sfm.leeschools.net	14020 Plantation Road	(239) 561-0060
Groveland	South Lake High School (89.3%) www.lake.k12.fl.us	15600 Silver Eagle Road	(352) 394-1972
Tallahassee	Southeastern School of Health Sciences (100%) southeasternschool.org	243 Office Plaza Drive	(850) 222-0020
Boynton Beach	SouthTech Academy (80%) southtechschools.org	1300 SW 30th Avenue	(561) 369-7004
Cocoa	STEP Medical Teaching/Learning, Inc (66.7%) stepmedical.com	1550 West King Street	(407) 963-4041
Orange Park	STS CNA Training Center (100%) cnasuperiortraining.com	115 College Drive	(904) 272-4330
Sumterville	Sumter Adult and Community Education (Probationary Period) (47.8%) aec.sumter.k12.fl.us	1425 County Road 526a	(352) 793-5719
Sarasota	Suncoast Technical College (Probationary Period) (50%) www.suncoast.edu	4748 Beneva Road	(941) 924-1365
Sarasota	Suncoast Technical College - Extension Campus (60%) www.suncoast.edu	4748 Beneva Road	(941) 924-1365
Sarasota	Suncoast Technical College - High School Program (68.8%) www.suncoast.edu	4748 Beneva Road	(941) 924-1365
Sarasota	Suncoast Technical College - PN (Probationary Period) (0%) www.suncoast.edu	4748 Beneva Road	(941) 924-1365
Land O Lakes	Sunlake High School (100%) slhs.pasco.k12.fl.us	3023 Sunlake Boulevard	(813) 346-1000
North Miami Beach	Sunshine Training Center (0%)	177 NE 166 Street	(305) 949-1555
Tallahassee	Tallahassee Community College (90%) www.tcc.fl.edu	1528 Surgeons Drive	(850) 558-4516
Vero Beach	Technical Center for Career and Adult Education www.indianriverschools.org	1426 19th Street	(772) 564-5006
Saint Cloud	Technical Education Center Osceola (71.4%) teco.osceolaschools.net	501 Simpson Road	(407) 344-5080
Jacksonville	The Albert Z. Fleet Geriatric Training Center www.rivergarden.org	11401 Old Saint Augustine Road	(904) 886-8433
Orange Park	The Center for Adult and Community Education of Clay County (71.4%) www.oneclay.net	2306 Kingsley Avenue	(904) 272-8142
Titusville	Titusville High School website	150 Terrier Trail	(321) 433-7583
Lakeland	Traviss Technical College (66.7%) www.polkedpathways.com	3225 Winter Lake Road	(863) 499-2700
Port Saint Lucie	Treasure Coast High School (71.9%) schools.stlucie.k12.fl.us	1000 SW Darwin Boulevard	(772) 807-4300
Port Saint Lucie	Triode International Institute, Inc	1831 SW Alberca Lane	(772) 249-6226
Clearwater	Ultimate Medical Academy (84.6%) www.ultimatemedical.edu	1255 Cleveland Street	(727) 298-8685
Tampa	Ultimate Medical Academy (76.7%) www.ultimatemedical.edu	9309 North Florida Avenue, Suite 100	(813) 386-3058
Lake Butler	Union County High School (82.4%) uchs.union.schooldesk.net	1000 South Lake Avenue	(386) 496-3040
Wilton Manors	Universal Training Center	2650 North Andrews Avenue	(754) 234-1558
Vero Beach	Vero Beach High School (90%) www.indianriverschools.org	1707 16th Street	(772) 564-5416
Crawfordville	Wakulla County School Adult Education (Probationary Period) (42.9%) aehs.wcsb.us	P.O. Box 100	(850) 926-1841
Crawfordville	Wakulla High School Medical Academy (96.8%) whs.wcsb.us	3237 Coastal Highway	(850) 926-7125
Pensacola	West Florida High School of Advanced Technology (80%) www.wfhs.net	2400 Long Leaf Drive	(850) 941-6221
Callahan	West Nassau High School - Nassau County (90.3%) www.nassau.k12.fl.us	1 Warrior Drive	(904) 261-5713
Hialeah	Westland Hialeah Senior High School (70.8%) www.westlandwildcats.net	4000 West 18th Avenue	(305) 818-3000
Tampa	Wharton High School (100%) www.sdhc.k12.fl.us	20150 Bruce B Downs Boulevard	(813) 631-4710
Miami	William H. Turner Technical Arts Adult Education (Probationary Period) (0%) turneradulteduc.dadeschools.net	10151 NW 19th Avenue	(305) 333-8979
Miami	William H. Turner Technical Arts High School (84.6%) website	10151 NW 19th Avenue	(305) 691-8324
Davie	William T. Mcfatter Technical College and High School www.mcfattertechnicalcollege.edu	6500 Nova Drive	(754) 321-5853
Williston	Williston High School (Probationary Period) (64.3%) wmhs.levyschools.org	350 Robert Philpot Way	(352)528-3542
Wesley Chapel	Wiregrass Ranch High School (95.9%) wrhs.pasco.k12.fl.us	2909 Mansfield Boulevard	(813) 346-6000
Inverness	Withlacoochee Technical College (96.4%) www.wtcollege.org	1201 West Main Street	(352) 726-2430
Yulee	Yulee High School - Nassau County (100%) www.nassau.k12.fl.us	85375 Miner Road	(904) 225-8641
Zephyrhills	Zephyrhills High School (71.4%) zhs.pasco.k12.fl.us	6335 12th Street	(813) 794-6100

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Selecting a Training Program

The Florida Board of Nursing is a division of the Florida Department of Health (DOH). Per Florida Statute 464.202, the Board is responsible for maintaining (or approving another organization to maintain) a registry of Certified Nursing Assistants. According to Florida Administrative Code 64B9-15.005, the Board also sets the standards for CNA training programs and verifies that each program is in compliance with the required examination rates.

A school wanting to implement a Nursing Assistant Training program must submit an application to the Florida Board of Nursing. Schools offering CNA classes obtain licensure from the Department of Education and develop a curriculum that meets the Florida Department of Education’s requirements.

CNA training programs approved by the Board are vocational programs offered in the Health Sciences discipline in technical schools, academies, high schools, institutes, centers, and colleges. To narrow down the list of potential training programs, consider the following:

• Graduation rates
• Course instructors
• Cost
• Reputation of the institution
• Certification exam pass rates
• Percent of graduates employed
• School location

CNA Classes Entrance Requirements

Each certified nursing assistant school in Florida sets its own entrance requirements, but most require:

• Completing a school application
• Taking an assessment test in math, reading, and language
• Interviewing with a guidance counselor or program faculty member
• Possessing a high school diploma or equivalent, like a GED
• Passing a criminal background check
• Having a current immunization record
• Passing a drug test

Training Program Content

FBON approved CNA programs have core curriculum credits in English, math, science, social studies, fine arts, and physical education, plus eight additional credits in career and technical education courses and electives. The nursing student also completes clinical training. In total, there must be a minimum of 80 hours of classroom and laboratory courses, and 40 hours of clinical training in subjects relevant to the Certified Nursing Position. The core curriculum can take 6-10 weeks to complete, if attending full-time.

The curriculum for a CNA training program is divided into two sections. There are 90 hours of training as a basic healthcare worker. The second set of CNA courses includes a minimum of 30 hours of nursing assistant training. However, some programs lead to a certificate that goes beyond CNA certification, so those include additional courses and require more than the 120 hours to complete. For example, the Florida Panhandle Technical College takes 600 hours or 20 weeks to complete, and students earn a Patient Care Technician designation. Besides Basic Healthcare Worker and Patient Care Assistant, courses include Nurse Aide and Orderly, Advanced Home Health Aide, Allied Health Assistant, Advanced Allied Health Assistant, and Patient Care Technician.

An FBON approved program meets 22 rigorous standards that are designed to ensure students can pass the CNA test in Florida. After completing the standardized curriculum of CNA classes, the student will be able to manage a variety of responsibilities, including practicing infection control procedures, using verbal and written communications specific to the CNA, providing personal patient care, providing care for geriatric patients, and much more. Within each general standard there are detailed performance standards.

The Cost of Training

The cost of training varies significantly, but all programs are affordable. Determinants of the cost of the program include the number of hours required to complete the program and residency status. There are programs that cost as little as $500 and as much as $1,600 or more for resident tuition.

There are additional fees over the tuition amount as well. These include a registration fee, liability insurance, uniform fees for clinical training, books, and supplies. Students will also have to pay a fee for background checks, fingerprinting, and health tests like the TB skin test.

Step 3: Pass the Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam

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The CNA exam in Florida consists of two sections: the Clinical Skills Test and the Written Test. Both are designed to ensure you have mastered the knowledge and skills necessary to care for patients and long-term care residents.

Exam Process

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has contracted with Prometric to develop and administer the Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam. The process for the CNA test in Florida is as follows:

• Complete Prometric’s Florida Certified Nursing Assistant Application (Application Form)
• Pay the appropriate fees
• Submit to an FBI fingerprint background check and be deemed eligible to test by the Florida Department of Health
• Take the exam
• Pass both parts of the exam

Permission to Test

Prometric will email you after receiving your application and payment. The application is tracked from that point on via email. During this process is when you are notified as to whether you must submit to an FBI fingerprint background check. You can check the status of your application at any time on the Prometric website.

Once Prometric receives approval from the DOH, you will get an admission letter with the test’s time, date, and location. There are multiple test sites throughout Florida, but your admission letter will most likely show the preferred test location you mentioned on your application.

Fees and Payment Methods

The CNA testing fees sent with the application depend on the circumstances. There are different fees for taking:

• Both the clinical skills and written tests: $140
• The written test only: $35
• The written test as audio: $35
• The clinical skills test only: $105

There is another fee of $30 for rescheduling your test. You only pay a partial fee if you reschedule at least five days before your test date or the full fee if rescheduling on shorter notice. Additionally, you pay the fingerprint vendor directly for the FBI background check.

Prometric accepts payment via:

• Visa
• MasterCard
• American Express
• Money Order
• Company check
• Cashier’s check

When you arrive for the Florida Nurse Aide Exam, it is important to have your admission letter and two valid pieces of identification with you. One form should be a current government-issued ID that has a photo and a signature. You are also required to wear flat, close-toed, nonskid shoes to the Clinical Skills Test. Prometric advises wearing scrubs or a uniform to the test and a watch with a second hand.

Practice Exams

Prometric offers practice exams for a fee. There are three CNA practice exams. You can do one, two, or all three. Each Written Nurse Aide Practice Exam has 50 questions that are similar to the questions on the real exam. The practice exam gives you immediate feedback when responding to the questions.

There is also a Clinical Skills Readiness Test that helps you prepare for the Clinical Skills test. There are six CNA practice tests available for a fee. Each test covers three to four skills. The questions test your knowledge of the clinical skills that you will need to know on the day of the CNA test.

The CNA Tests

The Written test is computerized. It consists of 60 multiple-choice questions designed to evaluate your knowledge and skills concerning nursing assistance. The Written test covers five major topic areas:

1. Role of the nurse aide
2. Safety promotion
3. Promotion of function and health of residents
4. Basic nursing care provided by the nurse aide
5. Specialized care for people with changes in health

The Clinical Skills test is a timed test that scores five CNA skills. The skills you must demonstrate are assigned by the computer when you are scheduled for testing. While you are demonstrating three skills, you will also be scored on Handwashing and Indirect Care. You have to demonstrate competency in all five skills.

Candidates are required to play a role as a patient/resident on which another candidate can perform skills. These skills include things like helping the role-playing resident walk, caring for nails, moving an arm or leg with simple exercises, turning a person on the side, and more.

Retesting

CNA exam scores are valid for two years. If you pass one exam section but have to retake the second section, the retake must be completed within two years of the original exam date. Otherwise, you must retake both sections.

If you fail either part of the exam three times, you need to take two steps:

• Complete a Florida Board approved CNA training program
• Retake both exam parts

After the CNA Exam

Once you pass both sections of the exam, there are several things to keep in mind:

• Before seeking employment, you must obtain certification from the DOH
• Within 120 days of employment, your name must appear on the Florida Nurse Aide Registry
• Once officially licensed, the license must be renewed every two years
• CNAs must perform their duties as paid employees within the two-year (24 months) period
• CNAs must complete at least 12 hours of in-service training each calendar year; the CNA CEUs in Florida are required to ensure you maintain current skills (find CNA CEUS through here)

Step 4: Get Certified as a Nursing Assistant

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Getting certified after passing the CNA certification exam is probably the easiest step in the process, as long as you can pass the background check. Once certified, your name is entered into the CNA registry in Florida. You stay certified by working and completing in-service training.

Background Checks

Most CNA programs require background checks on potential students to determine if there are arrests or convictions. There are two main reasons for doing background checks. One is that many employers will not hire people to work in medical facilities if they have certain kinds of offenses on their criminal record. The disqualifying offenses are found in the Florida Statute Chapter 434, Section 408.809. The schools do not want to let someone take a spot in their CNA classes knowing that person will not be able to find employment.

Second, when applying to Prometric to take the exam or when applying for reciprocity, a Florida Department of Law Enforcement background check must be conducted before certification. The background check is valid for six months.

When applying for certification, the Florida Board of Nursing will screen the background check. The Board may ask you to submit more information about items that appear on the report. The Board can either approve the certification based on the additional information or you send your file to the Board of Nursing for further review.

The Board will then either approve or deny the application. If approved, your name and information is entered into the Florida CNA registry. If denied, the Board will send out an “Intent to Deny” order. You can then appeal that order.

CNA Renewal

There are two main requirements for a CNA renewal in Florida:

1. Perform nursing related services for compensation within the last 24 months.

2. Complete in-service hours – Completing at least 12 hours of in-service training each calendar year is required. This requirement ensures the CNA maintains currency in the following areas:

• Bloodborne pathogens, infection control
• Domestic violence
• Documentation and legal aspects for CNAs
• CPR skills
• Resident rights
• Communication with impaired clients
• Medical Error Prevention/Safety

However, the ones listed are the minimum that must be completed in order to renew your CNA certification in Florida. The CNA’s employer has the right to require employees to complete additional in-service hours in other areas.

Renewal Fees

It is not free to renew your CNA license in Florida. The fee you must pay depends on whether you are renewing before or after your license expires. It is much cheaper to keep your license active ($55) than it is to renew your license after it expires ($105) or you receive a 120 Notified Delinquent notice ($170).

The Florida Board of Nursing now has the MQA Online Services Portal where you can manage your license. Create an account, and then you can manage CNA license renewal requirements and pay fees.

Lapsed CNA Certification

If the certificate is not renewed with the Florida Board of Nursing by midnight on the date it expires, you are considered delinquent and cannot work until it is renewed. Licenses expire on May 31 each year, on a two-year cycle.

There are additional requirements for CNA renewal if it is after the expiration date:

• Must meet work requirements
• Must meet in-service training requirements
• Pay the original renewal fee
• Pay a delinquency fee

If you do not renew the CNA certificate within two years after it expires, the certification is no longer valid. In that case, you will have to retake the CNA examination. If you believe you may want to return to work within the two-year period, it is better to renew the certificate rather than let it expire.

Waiting for Official Certification

Though CNA certification is required, Florida will allow you to work for no more than 120 days while waiting for the official certification. One of the following conditions must be met:

1. You have completed a state approved program or are enrolled in one in Florida.
2. There is verification you are actively certified in another state.
3. You passed the CNA Florida state exam but have not received the certificate.

The employer must also agree to let you work based on the verification that you met one of the conditions. It is up to the employer to decide if you can work during the four month grace period when you have appealed a denial of certification.

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Step 5: Work as a CNA

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CNA work is rewarding, but it is also difficult because it involves moving and lifting patients and residents. However, the employment outlook for certified nursing assistants in Florida is excellent. This profession offers great long-term opportunities no matter where you decide to live. | See Job Openings

Where CNAs Work

Certified nursing assistants work in a variety of patient care facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing assistants work mainly at:

• Skilled nursing facilities/nursing care facilities
• Hospitals
• Assisted living facilities for the elderly
• Continuing care retirement communities
• Providing home healthcare services
• Schools and government facilities

By far, the top industry employing CNAs is the hospital industry, followed by nursing care facilities.

What CNAs Do

The job duties of a CNA are designed to help patients and long-term care residents with daily living. The Florida Administrative Code 64B9-15.002 approved the duties the CNAs can legally do. There are broad categories which include specific tasks. Following is a list of the categories with a sample of activities within each:

• Personal care services – includes tasks like bathing, shaving, dressing, shampooing hair, bed making, and oral hygiene and denture care
• Maintaining mobility – assisting with activities like walking, transporting, positioning, lifting, turning, doing motion exercises, maintaining body alignment
• Maintaining nutrition and hydration – feeding and assisting with drinking fluids
• Elimination activities – toileting, use of bedpans and urinals, catheter care, collecting specimens, caring for ostomy bags
• Helping with assistive devices – wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, braces, prosthetics, and instructing residents on using self-help devices
• Maintaining the environment and resident’s safety – handling all types of body fluids
• Data gathering – measuring temperature, pulse, blood pressure, weight, oral intake, urinary output, and much more
• Recognizing and reporting abnormal resident symptoms, signs, and findings
• Post-mortem care
• End of life care

The CNA also performs tasks associated with resident socialization, compliance with patient or resident rights, and documentation of tasks performed. Certified Nursing Assistants always work under the supervision of a registered nurse or practical nurse. The responsibilities of the CNA are critical because they work so closely with patients and residents and have an enormous influence on the quality of life of those in their care. | See Job Openings

Job Outlook

According the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics, Florida has one of the highest employment levels for the nursing assistant occupation. Florida only ranks behind California and New York for the number of CNA jobs. According to Occupation Code 31-1014, there are 90,890 Nursing Assistants employed in Florida as of May 2016. The number of CNA jobs in Florida is expected to grow to 108,035 by the year 2023. That is a 20.7% growth rate. | See Job Openings

Comparing that to the current projection at the national level for the period 2014-2024 of 14%, per O*NET, a U.S. government sponsored site, the employment growth rate is faster in Florida. However, both Florida and nationally, the job outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants is must better than the average growth for all occupations. If you plan on completing training in Florida and finding employment elsewhere, the outlook is bright in all parts of the country. | See Job Openings

What CNAs Earn

In Florida, the average hourly CNA salary as of May 2016 was $12.13. That equates to an annual pay of $25,230. Nationally, it was $13.29 per hour which is $27,650 annually. Wages vary significantly, depending on the region in Florida. | See Job Openings

The top 5 paying regions in FL are:

1. Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island: $13.42 per hour
2. North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton: $13.37 per hour
3. Cape Coral-Fort Myers: $13.13 per hour
4. Homosassa Springs: $12.77 per hour
5. Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater: $12.35 per hour

CNA Salaries in Florida

FL CNA Salaries	Empl.	Hourly mean wage	Annual mean wage	Wage percent relative std. error	Hourly 10th % wage	Hourly median wage	Hourly 90th % wage	Annual 10th % wage	Annual median wage	Annual 90th % wage
National	1443150	13.29	27650	0.2	9.64	12.78	18.22	20040	26590	37900
Florida	90890	12.13	25230	0.5	9.62	11.76	15.14	20010	24460	31500
Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL	3400	13.13	27300	1.2	10.12	12.95	17.14	21060	26940	35650
Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL	-	11.79	24520	3.5	9.18	11.18	15.18	19090	23260	31570
Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, FL	2780	11.97	24890	1.0	9.85	11.80	14.61	20490	24530	30380
Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach-Deerfield Beach, FL Metropolitan Division	5310	12.21	25390	1.8	9.25	11.86	15.75	19240	24670	32760
Gainesville, FL	2030	12.17	25320	2.6	9.86	11.61	16.03	20510	24150	33350
Homosassa Springs, FL	790	12.77	26560	2.3	10.07	12.50	16.01	20940	26000	33310
Jacksonville, FL	7180	11.98	24930	1.4	9.78	11.69	14.77	20350	24320	30730
Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL	2860	11.78	24510	2.8	9.11	11.51	14.89	18950	23950	30980
Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL	23920	11.83	24610	0.9	9.34	11.46	14.92	19420	23840	31030
Miami-Miami Beach-Kendall, FL Metropolitan Division	10990	11.73	24390	1.5	9.09	11.43	14.79	18910	23780	30770
Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL	1420	13.42	27910	1.8	10.17	13.27	17.57	21150	27610	36550
North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL	4960	13.37	27820	1.8	10.31	13.21	17.42	21440	27480	36230
Northeast Florida nonmetropolitan area	1610	12.00	24950	3.1	8.98	11.53	16.05	18680	23980	33390
Northwest Florida nonmetropolitan area	700	11.48	23870	2.0	9.13	11.20	14.53	18990	23300	30220
Ocala, FL	1260	11.92	24790	1.4	9.76	11.64	14.70	20300	24200	30570
Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL	8760	11.98	24910	1.4	9.53	11.62	15.04	19830	24160	31290
Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL	2490	12.13	25230	1.4	9.91	11.89	14.78	20620	24720	30740
Panama City, FL	1000	11.84	24630	1.5	9.51	11.45	15.04	19780	23820	31280
Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent, FL	2090	11.63	24190	3.2	8.97	11.25	14.90	18660	23410	30990
Port St. Lucie, FL	2160	12.30	25570	2.6	9.29	12.14	15.68	19330	25250	32620
Punta Gorda, FL	950	12.21	25390	2.8	9.71	11.93	15.00	20190	24820	31190
Sebastian-Vero Beach, FL	610	12.05	25050	3.3	9.99	11.63	15.02	20790	24190	31250
Sebring, FL	600	10.96	22790	1.9	8.69	10.60	14.23	18070	22060	29590
South Florida nonmetropolitan area	720	11.37	23640	2.7	9.26	11.00	14.53	19260	22880	30210
Tallahassee, FL	1290	10.97	22820	2.3	8.84	10.82	13.91	18380	22510	28930
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL	15950	12.35	25690	1.2	9.91	12.02	15.18	20610	25010	31570
The Villages, FL	370	11.72	24380	2.8	9.68	11.32	14.55	20130	23550	30260
West Palm Beach-Boca Raton-Delray Beach, FL Metropolitan Division	7620	11.73	24390	1.7	9.71	11.33	14.69	20190	23560	30550

CNA Salaries

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Conclusion

It is important to remember that once you have completed your CNA training and got certification, you will have excellent job security. You can also consider getting additional training at a later date to earn a Nursing degree to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN). As the population ages, more people are requiring medical and residential care. At the same time, CNAs will begin to retire in greater numbers, creating new openings for the next generation. Today’s Certified Nursing Assistant can expect to enjoy an interesting, secure career for many years to come.