CNA Classes and Training Opportunities in Columbus, Ohio

If you are preparing to live in the Columbus, Ohio area and also want to be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) there, then you will need to know the requirements for becoming a CNA in Ohio.

Ohio CNA Requirements

CNAs in Ohio are also called state assisted nursing assistants or STNA and the program for them are regulated by the Ohio State Department of Health Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). The NATCEP also are the ones who review the required tests and employment criteria for CNAs. If you wish to become an STNA in Columbus, or elsewhere in Ohio, then you need to choose an appropriate training program, as well as register with the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry.

Some of the other basic requirements to join a CNA training program in Columbus, Ohio are:

•  Possess a high school diploma, GED or equivalent
• Finish a training program approved by the NATCEP that has at least 75 hours of class and clinical classes
• Some programs require prior CPR training, while some give this training during the program
• Pass the required STNA exam. Information on the exam, along with dates and how to register to take it can be found in the handbooks for STNA candidates, which can be downloaded online or requested from one of the approved programs.

Where can you get training in Columbus, Ohio?

 If you need to find an acceptable training program, then you can contact one of the Columbus area community colleges or vocational colleges or call the NATCEP at 614-752-8285 for a list of suitable programs in Columbus. In addition, the Ohio Red Cross has classes for CNA candidates that are acceptable to Ohio requirements.

Once you finish the classes, then you must take and pass the required STNA exam. The exam consists of two different sections: a written test consisting of 79 multiple-choice questions and an exam that tests the student’s skill levels by making them perform five selected tasks appropriate to a STNA job.

Afterwards, your results and certification are sent to the Ohio Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry and you will get a card showing your certification status. Then, you will be able to look for a job in Columbus, Ohio, as well as other places in the state .

Classes in the Columbus area normally are conducted in programs that last about four to six weeks in duration. They are also less expensive than classes to become an actual nurse.

Where are the jobs in Columbus, Ohio for a CNA?

Some of the places you will be able to work as a CNA in Columbus area are long term care facilities, doctor’s offices, home health organizations, and medical facilities that use STNAs.

The cost of such programs is very low compared to completing your nursing degree. They usually range between about $400 and $800.  If you need a CNA refresher course, these usually run between $100 and $200.