Are you a CNA student or graduate who has often wondered why continuing education is required to maintain the certification? Or perhaps you would like some information pertaining to the type of CE courses you will need to complete and how often you will be required to take them. In any case, we have compiled some information below that will answer your questions.
The Importance of CE Coursework
First of all, for you to understand the importance of continuing education for CNAs, you must understand why it is required. The medical field is constantly evolving, and new technology and methods of care are being presented every year. Continuing education courses help nurse aides keep up with these constant changes. CE classes are designed to broaden your knowledge base as a CNA.
Common Regulations Regarding CE Classes
Each state requires their CNAs to complete a certain amount of continuing education classes annually or biannually. Although this amount varies from state to state, the average amount is 12 hours of continuing education credits per year. Of course, this is just an overall average for the country: Some states require their nurse aides to complete up to 25 CE credits each year.
Typical Continuing Education Courses
As a CNA, you will be responsible for a large variety of tasks. CNA programs provide students with the basic knowledge and skills they need for their careers. The purpose of continuing education, on the other hand, is to expand upon basic CNA training. Although the actual CE courses you will be required to complete vary from one year to the next, some typical continuing education classes for CNAs are as follows:
- New Medical Procedures and Equipment
- Understanding Patients' Rights
- Geriatric Patient Care
- HIV and AIDS
- Maintaining Patients' Records
- Preventing Medical Mistakes
- Providing Support to Patients and Their Families
Where to Find Continuing Education Courses
Now that you know the basic rules regarding continuing education for CNAs, you may be wondering where you can find CE courses. Fortunately, there are many different facilities that offer continuing education coursework for CNAs. Some states even allow you to complete some of your CE requirements online! Other facilities that you may want to consider include:
- Community Colleges
- Trade and Technical Schools
- The American Red Cross
- Local Community Centers
- Local Public Hospitals
- Local Nursing Homes
- Online Continuing Education Websites
As a CNA, you must complete continuing education courses on occasion. You can find these classes in such places as community colleges, hospitals, or online websites.