CNA Classes in Alaska

Before enrolling in a CNA program in Alaska, you need to meet several important requirements:

• Must be able to pass a criminal background check through the Alaska Department of Public Safety and FBI
• Must complete a physical exam to ensure you can perform the physical demands of the job
• Must be up-to-date with required immunizations
• Must be able to read and understand English
• Foreign-trained applicants may need to provide translated diplomas and demonstrate English proficiency

The Alaska Board of Nursing also recognizes alternative qualification pathways for individuals who have:

• Completed one year of nursing education within the past 2 years
• Received military corpsman/medic training within the past 5 years
• Graduated from a foreign nursing program
• Held a current or lapsed unencumbered RN license

Alaska has specific requirements for CNA training programs to ensure all nursing assistants receive standardized education:

• Total of 140 training hours required:
  • 60 hours of classroom instruction
  • 80 hours of clinical/skills training
• Core curriculum topics typically include:
  • Recording vital signs (pulse, respiration, blood pressure, temperature)
  • Patient care techniques
  • Infection control
  • Medical terminology
  • Basic anatomy
  • First aid and CPR

Most CNA programs take about one semester to complete. The University of Alaska Anchorage’s program includes 60 hours of classroom instruction, 32 hours of skills instruction in the classroom lab, and 48 hours of hands-on training in a healthcare facility.

Finding the right CNA training program is an important step in your certification journey:

• Training is offered through various approved providers:
  • University of Alaska Anchorage and other educational institutions
  • Hospitals
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Vocational schools

To verify a program’s approval status, check with the Alaska Board of Nursing.

Program costs typically include:

• Tuition and fees
• Textbooks
• Background check fees
• Exam fees
• Additional costs for uniforms and medical requirements

Financial assistance options may include:

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants
• Federal Pell Grants for students attending accredited colleges
• Employer tuition reimbursement programs
• Free training through work agreements with healthcare facilities

After completing your training, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination administered by Credentia Nurse Aide Credentialing Services:

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Written (or oral) examination component
  • Skills demonstration examination component

To schedule your exam:

1. Receive an Approval to Test letter (ATT) from the Alaska Board of Nursing
2. Create a CNA365 account with Credentia
3. Schedule both components of the NNAAP examination

On exam day, bring government-issued photo identification and wear appropriate attire. The skills evaluation will test your ability to perform nursing assistant tasks safely and effectively.

The final step is registering with the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry:

After passing your exam, you’ll be added to the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Alaska Board of Nursing. To complete the certification process:

• Submit the Alaska Nurse Aide Certification by Examination application (Form 08-4069)
• Pay the required fees totaling $275 ($100 application fee, $100 certificate fee, and $75 fingerprint processing fee)
• Allow 4-6 weeks for processing and certification issuance

To maintain an active status on the registry:

• Certifications are valid for two years, expiring on March 31 of even-numbered years
• Complete 24 hours of continuing education within the certification period
• Work at least 160 hours in a paid CNA role during the renewal period
• Submit renewal application and $100 fee before the expiration date

With your Alaska CNA certification, you’ll be qualified to work in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and regional hospitals throughout the state.

The Alaska Nurse Aide Registry, managed by the Alaska Department of Health, is your primary resource for CNA certification matters in the state.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/professionallicensing/nurseaideregistry.aspx
• Phone: (907) 334-2483
• Email: [email protected]

The registry provides services such as:

• Verifying certification status
• Processing renewal applications
• Handling license transfers
• Maintaining a searchable database of certified nurse aides

To check your certification status, visit the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry portal through the Department of Health website.

Maintaining your CNA certification in Alaska requires adherence to specific guidelines:

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 160 hours as a CNA within the 24-month certification period
• Renewal process:
  • Submit a renewal application through the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry
  • Provide proof of employment (signed by your employer)
  • Submit renewal fee ($25)
• Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to retake the competency evaluation
• Continuing education: No formal CE requirements for basic renewal

If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Alaska, follow these steps for reciprocity:

1. Verify that your current certification is in good standing in your original state
2. Complete the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry Reciprocity Application
3. Submit required documentation:
   • Copy of your current CNA certification
   • Proof of employment as a CNA within the last 24 months
   • State-issued ID or driver’s license
   • Background check ($65 fee)
4. Mail your application and documents to the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry
5. Allow 4-6 weeks for processing

Note: Alaska may require additional training if your original state’s requirements don’t meet Alaska standards.