CNA Classes in Idaho

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

• Ability to read, speak, and write English
• Demonstrate basic math skills
• Pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check (required for CNAs working in long-term care facilities, home health agencies, or positions with direct patient access)
• Complete required health screenings (specifics may vary by program)

High school students interested in CNA training must pass the Idaho Career & Technical Education Health Occupation Program prerequisites with 80% accuracy to take the CNA capstone course. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the program’s primary instructor.

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

• Total of 120 training hours required:
  • 80 hours of classroom instruction
  • 40 hours of clinical instruction
• At least 16 hours of classroom instruction must be completed before any direct involvement with facility residents
• Core curriculum topics include:
  • Basic nursing skills
  • Personal care skills
  • Mental health and social service needs
  • Basic restorative services
  • Residents’ rights
  • Anatomy, physiology, and pathology
  • Clinical signs and symptoms
  • Prevention and intervention measures
  • Emergency procedures
  • Documentation practices

Most programs take between 4 and 8 weeks to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. While some theoretical portions may be available in hybrid formats, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities.

Finding an approved CNA training program is crucial for your certification journey:

• Training is offered through various approved providers:
  • Community colleges (e.g., College of Eastern Idaho, North Idaho College)
  • Vocational schools
  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • Long-term care facilities

To verify a program’s approval status, check with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

• Tuition (ranging from $995 to $1,115)
• Textbooks and study materials
• Background check fees
• Uniform costs (approximately $100 for scrubs)
• Medical requirements like immunizations

Financial assistance options include:

• Idaho Launch: Eligible workers may qualify for 80% tuition assistance, up to $3,500
• Scholarships through institutions like NIC Workforce Training Center
• Payment plans to spread costs over monthly installments
• Sallie Mae Student Loans for classes $1,000 or over leading to certification

After completing your training, you must pass two required tests:

• Skills test: Demonstrates competency in practical nursing skills
• Written test: Assesses knowledge of nursing assistant concepts

Important exam details:

• Skills test must be completed within six months of graduation
• Written test must be completed within one year of graduation
• Candidates are allowed 3 attempts for each test
• Upon passing both exams, you’ll be placed on the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry within 4 business days

Prepare thoroughly for both portions of the exam, focusing on hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge covered in your training program.

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

• The registry contains information on the current status of CNA certificates
• Employers are required to verify a CNA’s certificate currency at the time of employment and upon renewal
• To protect privacy, Social Security numbers are masked upon entry in the registry
• Date of birth is required when requesting a search by Social Security number

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in Idaho.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/providers/certified-nurse-assistant/about-certified-nurse-assistant-registry 
• Phone: (208) 334-6620
• 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 Idaho Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://registry.prometric.com/publicID

Maintaining your CNA certification in Idaho 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 Idaho Nurse Aide Registry
  • Provide verification of employment
  • No renewal fee required
• Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to complete a competency evaluation or retake the CNA exam if expired more than 24 months

For renewal forms and detailed instructions, visit: https://publicdocuments.dhw.idaho.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=23292&dbid=0&repo=PUBLIC-DOCUMENTS&cr=1 

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

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the Idaho Application for Reciprocity
• 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
  • Criminal background check results
• Mail your application and documents to the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry

Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. Idaho may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet state standards.For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://publicdocuments.dhw.idaho.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=23291&dbid=0&repo=PUBLIC-DOCUMENTS

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

Education Providers:

• Idaho State University Workforce Training
  • Website: https://cetrain.isu.edu/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses and continuing education
• Idaho Health Care Association
  • Website: https://www.idhca.org/other-resources/cna-certificate/ 
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Idaho Nurses Association
  • Website: https://idahonurses.nursingnetwork.com/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• American Red Cross of Idaho
  • Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/idaho.html
  • Provides healthcare training and certification courses