CNA Schools
CNA Classes in Alaska
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alaska
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alaska is a rewarding career path that offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families. CNAs play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing essential care and support to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. If you’re considering becoming a CNA in Alaska, here’s what you need to know about the requirements.
Education and Training Programs
The first step to becoming a CNA in Alaska is to complete a state-approved nurse aide training program. These programs are designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to offer high-quality care to patients. The training consists of both classroom instruction and clinical practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their roles. Alaska requires CNA candidates to complete a minimum of 140 training hours. This includes at least 60 hours of classroom instruction and 80 hours of clinical or hands-on experience. During the clinical portion of the training, students work directly with patients in healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced professionals. This hands-on experience is invaluable, as it allows students to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world environment. Several institutions across Alaska offer CNA training programs, including community colleges, technical schools, and healthcare facilities. Some programs may even offer scholarships or paid training opportunities, making it easier for students to pursue their CNA certification.
Certification Exam
After completing the training program, aspiring CNAs must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination to become certified. The NNAAP exam consists of two parts: a written (or oral) assessment and a skills evaluation. The written portion tests the candidate’s knowledge of nursing concepts and patient care, while the skills evaluation requires the demonstration of specific CNA tasks. Candidates must pass both components of the exam to be listed on the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry.
Age and Education Requirements
To enroll in a CNA training program in Alaska, candidates must be at least 16 years old. While there is no specific educational prerequisite, such as a high school diploma or GED, some training programs may have their own admission requirements. It’s important to check with the specific program you’re interested in to understand their criteria.
Background Check and Health Requirements
Candidates must also undergo a background check to ensure they have no disqualifying criminal history. Additionally, CNAs must meet certain health requirements, including up-to-date immunizations and a negative tuberculosis test. Some programs and employers may also require a drug screening.
Continuing Education and Renewal
CNA certification in Alaska is valid for two years. To renew their certification, CNAs must have worked a minimum of 160 hours in a paid, nursing-related capacity within the past 24 months. Continuing education may also be required for renewal, depending on the specific regulations at the time of renewal. Becoming a CNA in Alaska is a process that requires dedication and hard work, but it can lead to a fulfilling career in healthcare. With the right training and preparation, you can join the ranks of CNAs who make a difference in the lives of patients every day.
Additional Resources:
CNA Schools Near You & Online in Alaska
Alaska Vocational Technical Center
- 1251 Muldoon Rd. #113 Anchorage, AK 99504
Programs: CNA, LPN
(907) 334-2230
Anchorage School District
- 5530 E Northern Lights Blvd. Anchorage, AK 99504
Programs: CNA
(907) 742-4000
Caregiver Training Academy
- 203 W 15th Ave Anchorage, AK 99501
Programs: CNA
(907) 258-0535
Providence Alaska Medical Center
- 3200 Providence Drive Anchorage, AK 99508
Programs: CNA
(907) 562-2211
Providence Extended Care Center
- 4900 Eagle Street Anchorage, AK 99503
Programs: CNA
(907) 562-2281
University of Alaska Fairbanks
- 201 Akiak Drive Bethel, AK 99559
Programs: CNA
(907) 543-4500
Prince William Sound Community College
- P.O. Box 1248 Cordova, AK 99574
Programs: CNA
(907) 424-7598
Fairbanks School District
- 520 5th Avenue Fairbanks, AK 99701
Programs: CNA
(907) 452-2000
University of Alaska Fairbanks Community & Technical College
- 604 Barnette Street Fairbanks, AK 99701
Programs: CNA, EMT Paramedic, Medical Assistant
(907) 455-2800
Kenai Peninsula College
- 533 E. Pioneer Ave. Homer, AK 99603
Programs: CNA
1(907)235-7743
University of Alaska Southeast
- 11120 Glacier Highway Juneau, AK 99801
Programs: CNA
(907) 796-6000
University of Alaska Southeast
- 2600 Seventh Avenue Ketchikan, AK 99901
Programs: CNA
(907) 225-6177
Kodiak College
- 117 Benny Benson Drive Kodiak, AK 99615
Programs: CNA
(907) 486-4161
Alaska Technical Center
- 843 4th Street Kotzebue, AK 99752
Programs: CNA
(907) 442-3733
Alaska Job Corps
- 800 E. Lynn Martin Drive Palmer, AK 99645
Programs: CNA
(907) 861-8800
Petersburg Medical Center
- 103 Fram Street Petersburg, AK 99833
Programs: CNA
(907) 772-4299
University of Alaska Southeast
- 1332 Seward Avenue Sitka, AK 99835
Programs: CNA, Health Information Management-Associate
(907) 747-7700
Kenai Peninsula College
- 156 College Rd. Soldotna, AK 99669
Programs: CNA
1(907)262-0330
Heritage Place
- 232 Rockwell Avenue Soldotna, AK 99669
Programs: CNA
(907) 262-2545
Prince William Sound Community College
- 303 Lowe Street Valdez, AK 99686
Programs: CNA
(907) 834-1600
Mat-Su Career & Tech High School
- 2472 N Seward Meridian Pkwy Wasilla, AK 99654
Programs: CNA
(907) 352-0480
Wrangell Medical Center
- 310 Bennett Street Wrangell, AK 99929
Programs: CNA
(907) 874-7000