CNA Classes in Pennsylvania

Before enrolling in a CNA program in Pennsylvania, you should understand the basic requirements:

• Must be at least 16 years old (though many employers prefer applicants 18+)
• Must have a high school diploma or GED (required by most programs)
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Must complete required health screenings:
  • Physical examination confirming ability to perform essential job functions
  • Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
  • Up-to-date immunizations
  • Drug screening (required by some programs)

The background check is particularly important as certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from working with vulnerable populations. Contact specific training programs for their exact eligibility criteria, as requirements can vary between institutions.

Pennsylvania has established training standards that all nursing assistant programs must follow:

• Total of 80 training hours required (minimum):
  • 42.5 hours of classroom instruction
  • 37.5 hours of supervised clinical training in healthcare settings
• Core curriculum topics include:
  • Basic nursing skills
  • Infection control procedures
  • Patient rights and dignity
  • Communication techniques
  • Personal care skills
  • Safety protocols
  • Vital signs monitoring

Programs must be approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. While some theoretical portions may be available in hybrid formats, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Selecting a quality training program approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education will prepare you for success:

• Programs are available through various approved providers:
  • Community colleges
  • Technical schools
  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Private training institutes

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

• Tuition ($800-$1,500)
• Textbooks and study materials
• Background check fees
• Uniform costs
• Medical requirements like TB tests

Financial assistance options include:

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants
• Employer-sponsored training (some facilities offer free training with employment commitment)
• Payment plans offered by many training providers
• Federal financial aid for programs at accredited institutions

Pennsylvania has a unique benefit: some nursing homes and healthcare facilities will cover your training costs if you commit to working for them for a specified period after certification.

After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination administered by Credentia:

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Knowledge test: Multiple-choice questions testing theoretical knowledge
  • Skills evaluation: Demonstration of nursing assistant skills
• Exam fee: $113
• Testing eligibility pathways:
  • Completion of a state-approved training program within the last 24 months
  • Pennsylvania nurse aide registration has lapsed due to not working in nursing-related services for at least 24 consecutive months
  • Licensed nurse aide on another state’s registry with lapsed licensure
  • Temporary nurse aide who has completed a Nurse Aide Attestation Form

When preparing for your exam, focus on mastering both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills taught in your program. Many students find the hands-on skills portion more challenging, so practice these techniques thoroughly before your test date.

Bring proper identification to the testing center and wear appropriate clothing. Plan to arrive with plenty of time to spare, as tardiness may result in rescheduling and additional fees.

The final step in becoming a certified nursing assistant in Pennsylvania:

• After passing your exam, you are automatically listed on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry maintained by Credentia
• Your certification becomes active once you’re listed in the registry
• You can verify your listing by contacting the registry or checking their online portal

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

Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/health/business-registration-and-regulation/nurse-aide.html 
• Phone: (800) 852-0518
• 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 Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://cna365.examroom.ai/registry/?StateCode=PA 

Maintaining your CNA certification in Pennsylvania 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:
  • Your employer must submit verification of employment through the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry
  • CNAs are responsible for ensuring their employer submits the verification
  • 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 information and verification forms, visit: https://credentia.com/storage/handbooks/pa-handbook_2024.pdf

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

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry Reciprocity Application
• 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
  • Social Security card
• Mail your application and documents to the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry

Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. Pennsylvania does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://credentia.com/storage/handbooks/pa-handbook_2024.pdf 

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

Education Providers:

• Pennsylvania Community College System
  • Website: https://www.pacommunitycolleges.org/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• Pennsylvania Health Care Association
  • Website: https://phca.org/events/ 
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Pennsylvania State Nurses Association
  • Website: https://www.psna.org/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals