CNA Classes in Colorado

Before enrolling in a CNA program in Colorado, you must meet several prerequisites:

• Must be at least 18 years old for most programs
• Must have a high school diploma or GED (some programs allow enrollment while finishing high school)
• Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check
• Must complete required health screenings:
  • Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
  • Up-to-date immunizations including hepatitis B and flu shots
  • Physical exam confirming ability to perform essential job functions
  • COVID-19 vaccination may be required at some clinical sites

Certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from certification, particularly those involving patient abuse or violent offenses. Background checks are conducted to ensure patient safety, as CNAs work closely with vulnerable populations.

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

• Total of 75 training hours required (one of the lowest in the country):
  • 59 hours of classroom instruction or online theory
  • 16 hours of supervised clinical training in healthcare settings
• Core curriculum topics include:
  • Basic nursing skills
  • Infection control practices
  • Patient rights and communication
  • Vital signs monitoring
  • Mobility assistance
  • Personal care techniques

Most programs take between 2 and 4 weeks to complete, with some accelerated options available. While theoretical portions may be available online in hybrid formats, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities under the supervision of qualified instructors.

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

• Training is offered through various approved providers:
  • Community colleges like Front Range Community College
  • Vocational schools such as Emily Griffith Technical College
  • Hospitals and medical centers including Centura Health
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Specialized training institutes like Northern Colorado Training Institute

To verify a program’s approval status, check the Colorado Board of Nursing website for their directory of approved Basic Nursing Assistant Training Programs.

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

• Tuition (ranging from $500-$1,400)
• Textbooks and study materials
• Background check fees
• Uniform costs ($50-$100)
• Medical requirements like TB tests ($25-$50)

Financial assistance options include:

• Colorado Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants
• Scholarships from nonprofit organizations
• Employer-sponsored training programs
• Free training through work agreements with healthcare facilities
• Payment plans offered by many training providers

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

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Written test: Multiple-choice questions testing theoretical knowledge
  • Oral option available for those who prefer not to take the written exam
  • Skills evaluation: Demonstration of five randomly selected nursing assistant tasks
• To pass, you must score at least 70% on both sections of the exam
• You’re allowed three attempts to pass both sections
• If you fail all three attempts, you must complete additional training before retesting
• Exam fees typically range from $85-$105

On exam day, bring government-issued photo identification and wear appropriate attire (many testing centers require scrubs). Arrive at least 30 minutes early to complete registration procedures.

Automatic failure can occur if you omit critical safety steps like proper hand hygiene during the skills evaluation.

The final step is being listed on the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry:

• After passing your exam, your information is automatically submitted to the registry
• Most new CNAs appear in the system within 2-3 weeks of passing their exam
• You can verify your listing by contacting the registry or checking their online portal
• Once registered, you can begin working as a CNA in Colorado

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in Colorado.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://dpo.colorado.gov/Nursing/CNAApplications
• Phone: (303) 692-2836
• Email: [email protected]

The registry provides services such as:

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

To check your certification status, visit the CDPHE Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://apps.colorado.gov/dora/licensing/Lookup/LicenseLookup.aspx

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

Renewal Requirements:

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 8 hours as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
• Continuing education: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
• Renewal process:
  • Submit renewal application online through the CDPHE portal
  • Provide verification of employment
  • Pay the renewal fee ($30)
• Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to complete a competency evaluation or retake the CNA exam if it has expired more than 24 months

For renewal forms and detailed instructions, visit: https://dora.colorado.gov/licensing-and-permitting

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

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the Colorado Application for Certification by Endorsement
• Submit required documentation:
  • Copy of your current CNA certification
  • Proof of completing a training program that meets federal requirements
  • Verification of employment as a CNA within the last 24 months
  • State-issued ID or driver’s license
  • Pay the application fee ($35)
• Submit fingerprints for a background check

Allow 4-6 weeks for processing. Colorado may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet state standards.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://dpo.colorado.gov/Nursing/CNAApplications

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

Education Providers:

• Colorado Community College System
  • Website: https://www.cccs.edu/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• Colorado Health Care Association
  • Website: https://www.cohca.org/events/calendar/
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Colorado Nurses Association
  • Website: https://coloradonurses.org/upcoming-events/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals