How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Colorado
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A career as a certified nursing assistant in Colorado offers a direct path into patient care, combining hands-on clinical skills with meaningful human connection. CNAs serve as essential members of the health care team, working closely with nurses and other medical professionals to ensure patients receive quality care across hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings.
The role demands both physical stamina and emotional resilience, as CNAs handle day-to-day patient needs while maintaining a compassionate, professional demeanor. For those drawn to making a difference in others' lives, Colorado's structured pathway to CNA certification provides the foundation needed to launch a rewarding career in health care through state-approved training programs, certification exams, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Key Points:
- Complete a state-approved CNA training program consisting of at least 75 hours of instruction, including 16 hours of supervised practical training.
- Pass the Colorado CNA certification exam, which includes a written or oral test and a skills demonstration.
- CNAs in Colorado earn a median annual wage of $42,520, which is higher than the national median of $33,250 for nursing assistants. Learn more about CNA salaries in Colorado.
- Colorado employs 20,820 certified nursing assistants across hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies.
- Key CNA tasks include assisting with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring patient comfort and safety. Review primary responsibilities for more details.
What is a Certified Nursing Assistant?
A certified nursing assistant (CNA) provides direct patient care under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. CNAs assist patients with essential tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and eating. They also measure vital signs, observe changes in patient condition, and communicate important information to the nursing team.
CNAs work with patients of all ages and backgrounds in settings ranging from hospitals to long-term care facilities. Successful CNAs possess a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and a genuine desire to help others. They play a vital role in ensuring patients receive compassionate, high-quality care.
Steps to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Colorado
Follow the steps below to earn your CNA certification in Colorado:
1. Enroll in a State-Approved CNA Training Program
Aspiring CNAs must complete a training program approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing. Programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and health care facilities throughout the state.
Comparing Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Colorado
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Program Curriculum
CNA programs in Colorado must include a minimum of 75 hours of instruction, with at least 16 hours dedicated to supervised practical training. The curriculum covers topics such as:
- Basic nursing skills
- Personal care techniques
- Infection control
- Patient rights
- Communication strategies
Clinical Training
In addition to classroom instruction, CNA students gain hands-on experience during supervised clinical rotations. Clinical training allows students to practice skills in real-world settings under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Background Check
Most CNA programs require students to pass a criminal background check prior to beginning clinical rotations. Any felony convictions or substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or exploitation may disqualify an individual from certification.
2. Pass the Colorado CNA Certification Exam
After completing an approved training program, candidates must pass the Colorado CNA certification exam to be placed on the state's Nurse Aide Registry.
The exam consists of two parts:1. Written (or oral) test: 70 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient care, infection control, and safety protocols. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the written exam or 120 minutes for the oral version.2. Skills test: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in five randomly selected nursing skills, such as hand hygiene, bed bath, or positioning. Each skill must be performed according to specific guidelines within 25 minutes.
To pass the certification exam, candidates must achieve a score of at least 75% on the written test and successfully perform all five skills during the practical examination. Candidates who fail either portion of the exam may retake it up to three times within 24 months of completing their training program.
3. Explore Job Opportunities
With CNA certification in hand, job seekers can explore a variety of employment options in Colorado. Demand for skilled CNAs continues to grow, particularly in long-term care and home health settings.
Major Employers
Colorado is home to several large health systems and long-term care providers that frequently hire CNAs, including:
- UCHealth
- HealthONE
- Centura Health
- Brookdale Senior Living
- Life Care Centers of America
Home Health Agencies
Many CNAs find fulfilling work with home health agencies, providing one-on-one care to patients in their own homes. Interim HealthCare and similar organizations offer competitive pay and flexible scheduling for CNAs interested in home care.
Continuing Education
CNAs who wish to advance their careers may pursue additional training to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs). Some employers offer tuition assistance or on-the-job training programs to support professional growth.
4. Renew Your CNA Certification
To maintain an active CNA certification in Colorado, individuals must renew their credentials every two years.
Renewal Requirements
- Work Experience: CNAs must provide proof of at least eight hours of paid work as a nursing assistant within the previous 24 months.
- In-Service Training: Nursing facilities are required to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education per year to CNAs on topics relevant to their job duties.
- Application and Fees: CNAs must submit a renewal application and pay the associated fees before their certification expires.
Failure to renew certification on time may result in the need to retrain and retest before returning to work as a CNA in Colorado.
Licensure in Colorado
The Colorado Board of Nursing regulates the practice of nursing assistants in the state. Visit https://dpo.colorado.gov/Nursing for information on the CNA registry, certification requirements, and scope of practice.
To apply for the certification exam, submit proof of training completion and the appropriate fees as outlined in the Colorado Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook. Exam applications are processed by Credentia, the state's testing vendor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What disqualifies you from being a CNA in Colorado?
Certain felony convictions or substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or exploitation may disqualify an individual from CNA certification in Colorado. Applicants with criminal histories should contact the Board of Nursing for guidance before enrolling in a training program.
Can you challenge the CNA exam in Colorado?
Colorado does not currently offer a challenge option for the CNA exam. All candidates must complete a state-approved training program before sitting for the certification exam.
How often do CNAs need to renew their certification in Colorado?
CNAs in Colorado must renew their certification every two years by submitting proof of work experience, completing in-service training, and paying the required fees.
What is the difference between a CNA and a QMA in Colorado?
In Colorado, a CNA (certified nursing assistant) provides basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. A QMA (qualified medication aide) is a CNA who has completed additional training to administer medications in licensed care settings. QMAs must meet specific requirements and pass a separate certification exam.
Start Your Career as a Colorado CNA
Certified nursing assistants form the backbone of patient care delivery, working directly with patients to provide essential daily support while serving as extra eyes and ears for the nursing team. The role offers opportunities to make meaningful connections with patients while gaining valuable experience in health care settings.
Working as a CNA provides an excellent foundation for understanding patient care and medical procedures. Whether you plan to advance in nursing or find your calling as a career CNA, the first step is finding the right training program. Explore our directory of CNA programs in Colorado to compare options and find the best fit for your goals.
