CNA Classes in Arkansas

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

• Must be at least 16 years old (no upper age limit)
• High school diploma or GED recommended, but not always required
• Must pass a criminal background check, including fingerprinting
• Must complete required health screenings:
  • Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
  • Up-to-date immunizations
  • Physical exam confirming ability to perform CNA duties

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

• Total of 90 training hours required:
  • At least 74 hours of classroom and lab instruction
  • Minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical training
• Core curriculum topics include:
  • Infection control
  • Patient hygiene
  • Vital signs monitoring
  • Mobility assistance
• Most programs take between 4-6 weeks to complete
• Training can be conducted in-person or virtually, with specific requirements for each delivery method

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

• Training is offered through various approved providers:
  • Community colleges
  • Vocational schools
  • Healthcare facilities
• Program costs vary by provider but typically include:
  • Tuition and fees
  • Textbooks and study materials
  • Uniforms and medical supplies
• Financial assistance options include:
  • Fee waivers for qualifying individuals receiving assistance through programs like Medicaid or SNAP
  • Fee waivers for those approved for unemployment within the last 12 months
  • Some employers offer sponsored training or tuition reimbursement

After completing your training, you must pass the state competency examination:

• The exam is administered by D&S Diversified Technologies-HEADMASTER
• It consists of two parts:
  • Written (or oral) test evaluating knowledge of key concepts
  • Skills demonstration test requiring performance of specific nursing tasks
• You must score at least 70% on the examination
• You have three attempts to pass before retraining is required
• On-site testing locations are available in several Arkansas cities

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

• After passing your exam, you’ll be listed on the registry
• The registry is maintained by D&S Diversified Technologies-HEADMASTER
• It provides verification of certification status for employers
• To maintain an active status:
  • Work requirements may apply (check with the registry for specifics)
  • Keep your contact information up to date

The Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry, managed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), is your primary resource for CNA certification matters in the state.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/provider-services-quality-assurance/office-of-long-term-care/
• Phone: (501) 682-8430
• 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 Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://ar.tmutest.com/search

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

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 8 hours (one shift) in a 24-month period under RN supervision
• Renewal process:
  • The employer submits verification of employment
  • CNAs must ensure their employer submits the verification before expiration
• Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to retake both the written and skills exams
• Fees: No renewal fee for active CNAs
• Continuing education: Not required for basic renewal, but recommended for professional development

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

1. Verify current certification in your original state
2. Complete the Arkansas 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
   • Social Security card
4. Mail your application and documents to the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry
5. Allow 2-4 weeks for processing

Note: Arkansas does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications, but you must be in good standing with no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property.

While Arkansas doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:

• Arkansas Rural Nursing Education Consortium (ARNEC): Offers various healthcare-related courses
  • Website: https://www.arnec.org/
• Arkansas Health Education Centers (AHEC): Provides educational resources and training programs
  • Website: https://uams.edu/ahec/
• Arkansas State Board of Nursing: Information on continuing education opportunities
  • Website: https://www.arsbn.org/