Can CNAs Become CNA Instructors?

Have you been exploring ways that will allow you to broaden your job possibilities and increase your wages as a CNA? If you have, why not consider becoming a CNA instructor? Now, you may be wondering whether or not it is possible for a certified nursing assistant to become a CNA instructor. The answer to this question is yes; however, you will need to complete the following steps.

1. Earn a Minimum of an Associate Degree in Nursing

The first steps to becoming a certified nursing assistant instructor include enrolling in an approved nursing school and earning either an associate degree or bachelor of science degree in nursing. This equates to anywhere from one to three years of additional training depending on the degree you choose to earn. Since much of your prior nursing assistant training can transfer to your new program, your best choice is to enroll in an accelerated CNA bridge program.

2. Obtain Your License as a Registered Nurse

The next step to launching your new career as a CNA instructor is to obtain a license as a registered nurse. What this means is that you will need to complete the NCLEX-RN exam and receive satisfactory scores on both portions of the test. This intensive exam is offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing at various testing locations throughout the United States. Your school of choice will prepare you for the test and help you locate a testing center near you.

3. Gain Practical Working Experience

Next, before you can become a CNA instructor, you will need to gain practical working experience by working as an RN for two or more years. The amount of time you will need to work as a registered nurse depends on the requirements set by your state's board of nursing. Additionally, some states require you to work for at least one year in a facility that cares for elderly, chronically-ill or terminally-ill patients. You can check your state's requirements by visiting its board of nursing website.

4. Complete a CNA Instructor Training Course

After you have gained the required amount of practical working experience as a registered nurse for your state, you will then need to complete a CNA instructor training course. In some states, this is known as a Train the Trainer Certification course. Depending on your state's requirements, a nursing assistant instructor course will involve anywhere from 15 to 25 hours of instruction. After successfully completing such a course, you can begin applying for employment as a CNA instructor.

Conclusion

If you are a CNA, you can become a CNA instructor by obtaining an RN license, gaining practical work experience and completing a CNA instructor course.