CNA Classes in Arizona

Arizona is considered one of the most sought-after retirement states in the country. Public records indicate over $37 million dollars in healthcare revenue according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Elevated healthcare needs for an aging retirement population pave the way for a great career in healthcare in the state of Arizona. If you are considering entering the field as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), statistic shows that there is a demand in the Southwest U.S., including Arizona.

The state of Arizona requires CNAs before they become employed to have received certification. Once receiving certification, the CNA must register with the Arizona State Nursing Home Nurse Aide Registry. Arizona has made some changes in the past several years to include licensure for Nurse Aides. Licensure requires background checks and fingerprinting. Although an extra step, it may be worth it in meeting employer needs and for a potentially higher rate of pay.

Arizona CNA Certification Requirements

The state has certain requirements that must be fulfilled to qualify for a CNA certification in Arizona. These include:

• Must be at least 16 years old
• High school diploma or GED equivalent (recommended)
• Criminal background check
• A fingerprint report
• No record of active felonies or unprofessional conduct
• Proof of citizenship or legal residency
• TB test report – not more than 6 months old
• Physical exam and doctor’s note of good health
• Proof of immunization

Arizona CNA Programs & Testing Costs

To receive a CNA certification, you must complete a state-approved program. The Board of Nursing in Arizona requires an accredited program to provide at least 120 hours of classes which is divided into 80 hours of classroom time and 40 hours of clinical internship. The program helps in preparing CNAs for a work environment of nursing homes, hospitals, acute care centers, and assisted living facilities.

On average, the CNA programs can be 3 to 6 weeks in length covering CNA essentials such as infection control techniques, nutrition, resident rights, patient care, first aid, anatomy, and physiology are just a few. There are over 50 programs in the State of Arizona that consist of community colleges, hospitals, vocational schools, and private programs. Some of the programs are employer sponsored – for a large list of programs with free CNA course options visit this website.

CNA Classes & Nurse Aide Program Courses in Arizona

There is so much potential for opportunity in Arizona. Below are a few of the programs for you to look into if you would like to see if they will meet your needs. If you have further questions, please contact them directly.

CNA Classes in Phoenix

Accord Healthcare Institute. AHI offers a great opportunity to demonstrate skills in a skill lab before beginning the internship. The program offers both CNA and LNA options and runs for 8 weeks also offering options for managing tuition.

Phoenix Job Corps. The Job Corps offers great flexibility in scheduling a work and life balance. The program can be completed in 18 months, and there may be an opportunity for tuition assistance. on, including study materials, books, uniforms, and registration fees.

Gateway Community College. GCC Offers a highly competitive program as well as advanced program options. If you have worked in a healthcare capacity of direct patient care they will fast-track your program.

Learn more about available CNA classes in Phoenix.

CNA Classes in Prescott, AZ

The Meadows of Northern Arizona. The Meadows of Northern Arizona offers a fast-track option to their program, where if you show you have previous experience you can obtain certification in as little as 40 hours.

CNA Classes in Scottsdale, AZ

Thunderbird Adventist Academy. TAA encourages students to take a tour of the campus before applying. You may have to contact the Academy for further information.

Additional Arizona CNA resources

The Nurse Registry information listed below is helpful in the event you have a question along the way or perhaps after you have received your certification when you are in the field.

Arizona Nurse Aide Registry

To contact the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry, use the information below:

Contact the Registry:

Arizona Nurse Aide Registry
4747 North 7th Street, Suite 200
Phoenix, Arizona 85014
Phone: (602) 889-5150

Out-of-State CNAs

Arizona does allow for out-of-state transfers with options for LNA or as a CNA with limited status. Items needed to transfer:

• Current proof of registration through your home state nurse aide registry
• If you have inactive status you may be required to complete a state-accredited program in Arizona
• Proof of a minimum of 160 hours of paid employment within the last two years
• Pass a criminal background check
• A completed application with the transfer fee for the nursing board

How does CNA license renewal work in Arizona?

Arizona certification is good for two years. The state offers easy access to online renewal with options to print your new certificate. To qualify, you must have worked at least 8 hours within the past 24 months. If you would like to change your status from CNA to LNA there could be a fee of $100 for fingerprinting and a background check.

As a CNA you will be required to have worked at least 160 hours in the past 24 months and will need to pay a renewal fee of $50.

How much does a CNA make in Arizona?

CNA and LNAs in Arizona make an average of $33,630 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Although there are other factors to consider such as the location of the job and type of work that can be determining factors as to whether the salary will be higher or lower.