CNA Classes & Programs in Florida

Floridians not only have the pleasure of living in literal paradise on Earth, but they also have the benefit of having access to a healthcare job market that is practically unmatched by the rest of the country. As many Floridians know, the average age in the state has steadily been increasing, which means that the need for nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) has never been more crucial. If you’re looking for an easy pathway to a lucrative and rewarding new career, there are many advantages to becoming a CNA, including quick and affordable (and sometimes paid) training.

Why Become a CNA in Florida?

While the best part of working as a CNA is the connections you make with your patients and other healthcare professionals and the opportunity to make a difference in your community, you’ll also find that it is also a great way to boost your career if you ever decide to advance to higher-level nursing roles. CNA certification is also fast in Florida and there are many ways that you can receive paid on the job training and cater your classes to fit your schedule either by taking them online or looking at part-time, weekend, or evening classes.

CNA Certification Requirements in Florida

So now that you have a good idea of what being a CNA entails, you may be anxious to get started. Here is what the typical CNA certification process looks like in Florida:

Eligibility Criteria

Every state has its own requirements for enrolling in a CNA program. In Florida, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Florida Board of Nursing and must be at least 18 years old or hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent. They must also complete a state-approved CNA training program, which typically includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. After completing the training, candidates must pass the Florida CNA examination, consisting of a written or oral test and a skills demonstration. Additionally, applicants must undergo a background check, including fingerprinting, to ensure they meet the state’s requirements for working in healthcare. Maintaining a clean criminal record is essential for certification approval.

Training Requirements

Aspiring CNAs in Florida must complete a state-approved training program to meet the eligibility criteria for certification. Training typically entails a minimum of 120 hours, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. However, it is not legally mandated in Florida so long as you’re able to pass the exam within three tries. This is called “challenging” the exam.

CNA program curriculum typically covers essential topics such as basic nursing skills, infection control, patient care, communication, and emergency procedures. At least 40 hours of the training must involve supervised clinical experience in a healthcare facility, providing students with real-world practice in assisting patients. These programs are designed to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the CNA exam and perform effectively in their roles.

Certification Exam

Once you’ve completed your training hours, it’s time to take the exam. CNA applicants in Florida are allowed to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) up to three times within two years of their training and must receive a 70% to pass. The exam consists of two parts: a written or oral test and a skills demonstration. The written portion includes multiple-choice questions covering key topics such as patient care, safety procedures, communication, and infection control. Candidates who opt for the oral exam will answer questions in a recorded format, often ideal for individuals with reading difficulties.

The skills demonstration requires candidates to perform a set of randomly selected tasks from a standardized list, such as assisting a patient with ambulation, measuring vital signs, or performing proper hand hygiene. Each skill is evaluated by an examiner based on accuracy, technique, and adherence to safety protocols. Passing both parts of the exam is mandatory for certification, and candidates are encouraged to thoroughly prepare through practice and review of their training materials.

Fastest CNA Programs in Florida

While you’ll need to complete at least 120 hours of training, one of the exciting benefits of CNA training in Florida is that these can be delivered part-time, full-time, and even partially online. So if you want to complete this training quickly, you can! Additionally, as mentioned, Florida has a unique bypass that allows students to take the CNA exam with less than the full 120 training hours. As a result, many CNA programs in Florida offer a shortened version of their training so that students can attempt this option. Here are some of the shortest routes to CNA certification in Florida:

Affordable CNA Programs in Florida

As mentioned, CNA programs on their own are incredibly affordable in Florida, and usually only cost around $1,000 or sometimes less. Below are a could of the more affordable CNA programs in the state, but keep in mind that these programs (and many others) may offer free enrollment or paid training with an offer of employment at the hosting medical facility.

How Much Do CNAs Earn in Florida?

On the lower end, Florida CNAs make around $8.60 per hour, which is unfortunate even by Florida standards. However, on the high end, CNAs in Flordia can make upwards of $26.15 per hour and on average, they typically net about $38,488 per year which is about 10% higher than the national average. Of course, there are ways to increase this amount depending on a few factors.

Factors Influencing CNA Salaries

CNAs who wish to increase their salary often do so by relocating to an area that offers higher pay such as Tampa, Miami, or Orlando. But the physical location you work is also a big determinant of what you’ll make as a CNA. CNAs work in many different fields so a CNA who works in a nursing home might not make as much as a CNA in a hospital, etc. Finally, starting out as a CNA can be rough at first because starting pay is usually pretty low. However, once you’ve put in a year or two, you’ll most likely be making more than your peers as there is significant turnover in this profession.

If you’re looking to increase your potential salary as a CNA, consider a CNA to RN program or developing a CNA specialization for increased salary and employment growth options.

How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Florida

If you’re still on board with this exciting new career, the next step is to start applying to training programs. As you begin your research, it’s good to pay attention to details like accreditation, program delivery, and costs to determine if your program of choice is right for you or even eligible for certification upon completion.

Accreditation

Accreditation is a vital factor when selecting a CNA training program in Florida. Candidates must ensure the program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and meets state standards for quality and curriculum requirements. Accredited programs provide the necessary training and preparation for the CNA certification exam and ensure that students gain skills aligned with industry standards. Completing an accredited program not only ensures eligibility to take the exam but also enhances employment prospects, as many healthcare employers prefer candidates who have graduated from reputable, state-recognized programs.

Program Costs

The cost of a CNA training program in Florida can vary widely depending on the provider and location. On average, tuition ranges from $500 to $2,000, with additional expenses for textbooks, uniforms, and exam fees. Some programs may offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to help ease the financial burden. It is essential for prospective students to inquire about all costs upfront to understand the full financial commitment. Additionally, certain employers or healthcare facilities may sponsor training programs or reimburse tuition costs for employees who agree to work with them after certification.

Schedule Flexibility

Schedule flexibility is a key consideration for many students pursuing CNA certification in Florida, especially for those balancing work or family responsibilities. Many training programs offer a range of scheduling options, including full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend classes. Some programs also provide online coursework combined with in-person clinical training to accommodate diverse needs. This flexibility enables students to tailor their education to their personal circumstances, making it more feasible to complete the required hours and obtain certification. Prospective students should evaluate program schedules to ensure they align with their availability and commitments.

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