How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Arkansas
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Starting a career as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in Arkansas opens doors to meaningful work in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. CNAs serve as essential members of health care teams, providing direct patient care while working alongside nurses and other medical professionals to ensure quality care delivery.
The path to becoming a CNA in Arkansas involves completing state-approved training, hands-on clinical practice, and passing a competency exam. This role offers opportunities to make a difference in patients' lives through daily interactions, while gaining valuable experience in the health care field that can lead to career advancement or serve as a stepping stone to other nursing positions.
Key Points
- CNA training programs in Arkansas last four to twelve weeks, providing a quick pathway into health care.
- Baptist Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Unity Health are major employers.
- 17,650 nursing assistants work in Arkansas, earning an annual mean wage of $32,050.
- Employment is projected to grow 4% between 2023 and 2033, matching the national average for all occupations.
- CNAs play a vital role in patient care, assisting with daily activities, feeding, and mobility.
What is a Certified Nursing Assistant?
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an essential part of the health care team, providing hands-on support to patients and assisting licensed nurses. CNAs are responsible for tasks that improve a patient's quality of life, such as helping with mobility, ensuring proper hygiene, and offering emotional support. The career is ideal for individuals who enjoy working closely with people and making a tangible difference in their lives.
Key responsibilities of a CNA include:
- Transferring patients between beds and wheelchairs.
- Measuring and recording vital signs, fluid intake, and output.
- Assisting with feeding and personal care, such as bathing and dressing.
- Observing and documenting changes in a patient's condition.
Becoming a CNA can be a rewarding career path for those who value compassion, interpersonal connections, and hands-on care.
Steps to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Arkansas
1. Meet Arkansas CNA Requirements
To begin a CNA career in Arkansas, candidates must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program.
- Pass a background check.
Before enrolling, verify the program is accredited and authorized to operate within Arkansas to ensure the education meets state standards and qualifies for certification.
Comparing Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Arkansas
CNA programs are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and other institutions in Arkansas. Class schedules, tuition costs, and the availability of clinical rotations vary among programs. Evening or weekend classes may be available to accommodate students with other commitments.
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Classroom Hours and Hands-On Training
Arkansas CNA programs consist of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. The classroom portion covers theoretical knowledge and basic nursing skills, such as infection control, patient safety, communication, and nursing techniques. Hands-on clinical training involves at least 16 hours of supervised practice in a long-term care facility or other approved health care setting.
Preparing for the Arkansas CNA Certification Exam
CNA programs in Arkansas prepare students for the Arkansas Nurse Aide Competency Exam through practice tests and skills demonstrations. The exam includes a written or oral test and a skills demonstration performed in front of an examiner.
2. Pass the Arkansas CNA Certification Exam
After completing a state-approved training program, candidates must pass the Arkansas Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by a state-approved testing service. The exam fee is approximately $165. Candidates have three attempts to pass before being required to retake the training program. Passing the exam is necessary to be listed on the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry and qualify to work as a CNA in the state.
3. Apply for CNA Positions
Certified nursing assistants in Arkansas work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home health care agencies. Baptist Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Unity Health are among the state's largest employers. The annual mean wage for CNAs in Arkansas is $32,050, with top earners making over $37,610. Many employers offer consistent demand, flexible schedules, and opportunities for growth. Job openings can be found on hospital job boards, staffing agencies, and local health care networks.
4. Maintain CNA Certification
To maintain an active CNA certification in Arkansas, individuals must:
1. Work at least eight hours in a paid CNA role every two years.
2. Complete at least 12 hours of in-service training annually.
3. Notify the state registry of name or address changes to avoid lapses in certification.
Maintaining certification ensures eligibility to work and demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence.
Licensure in Arkansas
Arkansas does not issue traditional licenses for CNAs, but certification is mandatory. The following resources provide information about training programs, the exam process, and registry requirements:
- ERIC LTCF Training
- TMUniverse Arkansas
- Arkansas Department of Human Services
- Arkansas Candidate Handbook
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to become a CNA in Arkansas?
Full-time CNA programs in Arkansas can be completed in as little as four weeks, providing a quick entry into the health care field.
Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in an Arkansas CNA program?
Most programs require candidates to be at least 16 years old, pass a background check, and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some may have additional requirements, such as a physical exam or immunizations.
Can I work as a CNA in Arkansas without certification?
No, Arkansas requires all nursing assistants to be certified and listed on the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry to work in the state.
What types of facilities employ CNAs in Arkansas?
CNAs in Arkansas work in various settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home health care agencies. The largest employers include Baptist Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Unity Health.
How often do I need to renew my CNA certification in Arkansas?
CNA certification in Arkansas must be renewed every two years by completing at least eight hours of paid CNA work and 12 hours of in-service training annually. CNAs must also notify the state registry of any name or address changes.
Starting Your CNA Journey in Arkansas
Working as a certified nursing assistant allows you to make meaningful connections with patients while gaining valuable experience in health care. The role combines clinical skills with compassionate care, offering opportunities to work alongside nurses and other medical professionals in diverse settings across Arkansas.
A career as a CNA opens doors to advancement in the medical field while providing immediate rewards through direct patient care. Ready to take the first step? Browse our directory of CNA programs in Arkansas to find an accredited training program that fits your schedule and career goals.
