Statistics continue to shift as the baby boomer generation enters retirement age. As a result, there is an increase in demand for skilled healthcare workers. If you are considering becoming a Certified Nursing Aide, Louisiana is a state you may want to consider in starting your career.
Louisiana offers a four-month temporary work program while you are in the process of obtaining your certification from a state-approved program. Also, if you have completed the basic nursing principals of a nursing program you may wave the state-required classes and testing with the Department of Health’s approval. This also applies to military-trained nurse assistants as well. The Department of Health can approve your certification with an application, proof of classes in a nursing program and your social security card.
Louisiana CNA Certification Requirements
Not everyone can become a CNA in New Orleans, or even apply for their CNA certification. There are a few requirements that must be met before someone can take a CNA class. These include:
- Passing a background check
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Negative TB test
- Current immunization records
Age requirements for schools can change from one to the next, so be sure to inquire if you’re under 18. Some programs will allow 16 year olds to partake.
Louisiana CNA Classes & Testing Costs
A state-approved program course will require a minimum of 80 hours. This is a combination of 40 hours of classroom learning and 40 hours of clinical classes. Coursework includes hands-on skills, lab time and lectures about such topics as infection control, first aid response, and resident rights.
Many of the programs in Louisiana are located at technical schools and community colleges. Some high school programs offer CNA classes in the student’s senior year. The average cost for a state-approved program can range from $700-$1200. Some of the programs do not include the additional costs for books, uniforms or medical equipment necessary for the course. Please be sure to budget additional funds for the additional costs.
There are programs that help with tuition payments with scholarships and grants or are offered at a reduced price. For a list of low-cost programs please see this link.
CNA Classes & Nurse Aide Courses in Louisiana
There are many CNA programs to consider. Listed below you will find some of the available that offer flexible tuition payments, flexible classes and some are at no cost. If you have any questions, please do contact the facilities direct they can help in answering any questions you may have.
CNA Programs in Louisiana
Camelot College. Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Camelot College offers flexible classes and tuition for the Certified Nurse Aide program. Learn more about CNA classes in Baton Rouge.
Northshore Technical Community College. NTCC offers a variety of ways to take the program and also has tuition assistance available.
Bossier Parish Community College. If you plan on continuing on in the healthcare field BPCC offers many programs that you may be able to transfer or receive credit for the CNA program.
You can also follow the link to learn more about CNA classes in New Orleans.
Additional Louisiana CNA resources
Once you have completed the state-approved course and exam you will receive your certification. However, you may have questions once you are working in the healthcare field. Below is listed the Nurse Aide Registry in case you need to contact them for any questions you may have.
Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry
To contact the Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry use the information below:
State of Louisiana
CNA – DSW Registry
5647 Superior Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Phone: 225-295-8575
Fax: 225-295-8578
Out of State CNAs
Louisiana makes the process of transferring your certification very simple, by applying online. As long as you are in good standing in your home state and Louisiana recognizes your state as comparable then the transfer should be easy. You will need a copy of your certification along with a copy of your social security card.
CNA Renewal in Louisiana
Your certification is valid for 24 months and will not need to be renewed before then. In order to renew your license, you will need to have worked at least 8 hours within the 24-month period of time in a state approved CNA setting.
How much does a CNA make in Louisiana?
The average hourly rate for a CNA in Louisiana according to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is $11.68 or $24,300 per year. This rate may vary depending on the location of the facility for example near a major city may be a higher rate. Also, the type of work the CNA was hired for such as a skilled nursing facility or a hospital.
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