A Certified nursing assistant training program is a fast track strategy to qualifying in a specialised medical field and to working in primary care institutions, where qualified CNA have the chance to work with patients like the frail and elderly, applying their newly acquired skills such as giving help with feeding, socialising and regular taking of medicine immediately in contrast to the long drawn-out training needed by other professions.

The main responsibility of a Certified nursing assistant is to make sure that their patient's needs are cared for in the most timely manner, while any changes in in general health are instantly reported to the proper medical staffing, either nurses or doctors. During CNA training the techniques for this type of care will be covered, equipping the trainee to do them in a high-stress environment.

Neighbourhood colleges, hospitals, nursing homes and similar facilities offer CNA training programs, that will take about six weeks to complete in most cases. Although some specialised facilities offer an even quicker, condensed training program, the rise in cost that comes with this speeded up training is however needless, given the opportunities available elsewhere at a more reduced cost. While community colleges will usually charge around three hundred dollars for their entire program, faster course providers will charge anything as much as one or even two thousand dollars. Yet, the principles taught during both programs will be identical and it seems a waste to devote nearly two weeks' pay to a course that can be had for far less at a community college.

When a person is signed up for the Certified nursing assistant training he or she should expect to study frequently. The most common mistake made by people trying to obtain certification, is not studying enough to take the state exam. Each state will have its own way of testing and the major component will incorporate a verbal walk through of basic care simultaneously with the physical practice of the training.

For instance, during the program, the Certified nursing assistant trainee will learn how to do perineal care in the state certified manner. During the test, he or she will need to verbally state each step as he or she performs it (probably on a mannequin). To pass the test, the student must score 90 % or higher.

Because CNA testing is so strenuous and the most of students don't pass on their first attempt, studying is of main importance. When the teacher walks through each Certified nursing assistant technique, the student should follow along taking notes and asking questions for clarity. Utilizing practice times is also crucial.

The CNA student should not be afraid to pair up with another trainee to walk through each technique. At times training could be frustratingly lengthy and slow moving, but seriously concentrating and taking on board each and every point for point procedure to prepare for the state exam is the only way to pass.