CNA Training in Massachusetts
The Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) position has become one of the fastest growing careers in the state of Massachusetts. This is an opportune time to begin researching this and related health care careers.
CNA Training and Competency Exam in Massachusetts
To become a CNA in Massachusetts you will first have to complete a formal CNA Training Program that has been approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. A link to the training programs offered in Massachusetts can be found below.
Second, you will need to successfully pass the nurse aide competency exam administered by the American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay, at which time you will be listed in the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry. All nurse aides working in long term care facilities or the like must be listed on the Nurse Aide Registry and be in good standing.
The nurse aide training program will be at least 75 clock hours in duration and include classroom instruction as well as a required number of hours in clinical or hands-on instruction. CNA training in Massachusetts is offered through vocational schools, community colleges, some American Red Cross Centers, high schools and some long-term care facilities. Some of the long-term care facilities will offer free CNA training in exchange for working at the facility once you complete the requirements to be listed on the nurse aide registry and are eligible to work as a CNA. Contact the CNA programs in your area to learn more about their clock hour requirements, cost and career placement services.
CNA Career Information
According to the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), the median annual salary for a CNA in Massachusetts is $28,300 and the median hourly wage is $13.59. These are both quite a bit higher than the national medians for both. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) predicts a 13% job growth for nurse aides and related positions through 2016. Based on these figure, the time looks right to start researching training programs for this exciting career.
Career advancement is also something to factor in to a decision to pursue this line of work. The CNA position is a great platform to begin a career in professional nursing. Often CNAs head back to school to become LPNs and Registered nurses. Health Care Administration or Management Degrees are also an excellent way to enter the business side of health care. The rapidly growing field of health care needs educated businessmen and women to help progress the field. You may also be interested in the Medical Assistant programs in Massachusetts.
(Sources: Massachusetts Center for Nursing, Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), Massachusetts Department of Public Health)
CNA Programs in Massachusetts
Approved CNA Training Programs in MA
Programs Offered: Certified Nurse Aide, Nursing Assistant
List of approved schools courtesy of the Massachusetts Nursing Association: Click Here to find programs.