Become a Certified Nurse: How to Become a CNA in Texas Guide

How to Become a CNA in Texas

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Texas. If you’re interested in pursuing a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a CNA can be a great starting point. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about CNA certification, training programs, and job opportunities in Texas.

To become a certified nurse aide in Texas, you’ll need to complete a state-approved nurse aide training program and pass the competency evaluation program examination. While there is no minimum education requirement for nurse aides in Texas, certain exemptions from training are available for individuals who meet specific criteria. The testing and scheduling for the CNA exam in Texas are handled by Prometric. If you happen to fail the exam, you’ll have two opportunities to re-test before having to go through the training program again. Once you become certified, it’s important to verify your employment every two years to maintain your active status on the Nurse Aide Registry, which is overseen by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. They also provide information on renewing and transferring your CNA license.

Key Takeaways:

• Completing a state-approved nurse aide training program and passing the competency exam is necessary to become a certified nurse aide in Texas.
• Exemptions from training are available for individuals who meet specific criteria.
• Prometric handles the testing and scheduling for the CNA exam in Texas.
• Verification of employment every two years is required to maintain active status on the Nurse Aide Registry.
• The Texas Health and Human Services Commission oversees the Nurse Aide Registry and provides information on license renewal and transfer.

CNA Training in Texas

To start your journey towards becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Texas, you’ll need to complete a state-approved nurse aide training program. The Texas Health and Human Services department approves these programs, and they typically consist of 100 training hours. This includes 60 hours in the classroom and 40 hours of hands-on training at a nursing facility. You can find CNA classes at local community colleges, trade schools, or even the American Red Cross.

The training program typically takes 6 to 15 weeks to complete, depending on the schedule and requirements of the specific program. During your training, you’ll learn essential skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and proper infection control procedures. These classes will provide you with the knowledge and practical experience you need to succeed in your future role as a CNA.

Once you have completed your training program, you can apply for CNA certification and sign up to take the CNA exam. The exam consists of a written (or oral) portion and a clinical skills evaluation. It’s important to note that you must pass both portions of the exam in order to become certified. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will be eligible to practice as a CNA in the state of Texas.

Training Hours	Classroom Hours	Hands-on Training Hours
100 hours	60 hours	40 hours

Why Choose CNA Training in Texas?

There are several reasons why choosing CNA training in Texas can be a great career move. Firstly, the demand for CNAs in Texas is high, with over 88,000 currently employed in the state. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities available for certified CNAs. In fact, the Houston area alone has nearly 19,000 CNA jobs. Moreover, CNAs in Texas earn competitive wages, with Tyler being the 5th top-paying metro area in the country.

Furthermore, becoming a CNA can be a stepping stone to further career advancements in the healthcare field. Many CNAs choose to continue their education and become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs). These roles offer increased responsibilities and higher earning potential. By starting your journey with CNA training in Texas, you’ll be setting yourself up for a rewarding and fulfilling career in the healthcare industry.

CNA Jobs in Texas

If you’re looking for a rewarding career in the healthcare industry, becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Texas can open up a world of job opportunities. With over 88,000 CNAs currently employed in the state, there’s a high demand for skilled professionals like you.

One of the best places to find CNA jobs in Texas is in the Houston area, where there are nearly 19,000 positions available. But it’s not just Houston that offers great employment prospects. CNAs in Texas earn competitive wages, with Tyler being the 5th top-paying metro area in the country.

Working as a CNA in Texas, you’ll have the chance to make a difference in people’s lives by providing essential care and support. CNAs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including nursing care facilities, hospitals, medical offices, facilities for the elderly, mental health clinics, and outpatient care centers.

The growth of CNA jobs in Texas is projected to be 11% by 2026, driven by the increasing healthcare needs of an aging population. Plus, being a CNA can be a stepping stone to further career advancements. Many CNAs go on to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs).

CNA License in Texas

To work as a CNA in Texas, you’ll need to obtain a CNA license. Once you are certified, you must renew your license every two years by completing 24 hours of in-service training and providing proof of qualifying employment.

With the growing demand for CNAs in Texas and the rewarding nature of the job, pursuing a career in this field can be a wise choice. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking for a change, becoming a CNA in Texas can open doors to a fulfilling and stable profession in the healthcare industry.

Source Links

• https://www.hhs.texas.gov/business/licensing-credentialing-regulation/long-term-care-credentialing/nurse-aide-registry/nar-credentialing-faqs
• https://www.cnaonlinecourse.com/cna-certification-texas
• https://dreambound.com/blog/how-to-become-a-cna-in-texas