CNA Certification: Open Doors in Your Healthcare Career

Becoming a CNA is a lucrative and rewarding career. It also happens to be one of the fastest-growing careers in the healthcare industry. If you want to help people and get started sooner rather than later, getting your CNA certification can open doors in your healthcare career. Today, our team at HeartCert is going to cover everything you need to know to get started as a CNA and get a head start.

a young nurse in blue scrubs smiling and standing in bright hallway with other medical professionals in background

What is a CNA Certification?

A CNA, also known as a certified nursing assistant, is a medical professional who assists nurses in hospitals. When there are multiple patients on rotation, having a CNA on hand can speed up the process and ensure every patient is getting the care they need.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a CNA?

CNAs are responsible for direct, hands-on patient care—everything from bathing, dressing, and feeding to monitoring and reporting on vital signs. Taking patients’ temperatures, determining pulse, and checking out respirations are all things that might fall under typical CNA duties and responsibilities.

Related Content: A Day in the Life of a CNA: What to Expect in This Rewarding Career

What is the average salary for a CNA?

The average salary for a CNA is $39,430, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

What’s the job outlook for a CNA?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that between now and 2034, CNA positions are expected to grow 2% every year, or 211,800 new openings annually.

Related Content: Why Should I Become a CNA?

How Long Does it Take to Get CNA-Certified?

Most CNA classes last around 4-12 weeks, though some might finish in less time or take a little longer, depending on which provider you go through.

Here at HeartCert, we offer training options ranging from as little as 5 days to up to two weeks if you need classes more spread out. Using a blend of online training and in-person learning, we aim to make the course as easy as possible with locations around the Midwest—in Minnesota and in Iowa.

Related Content: How Long Does CNA Training Take?

What are the typical CNA requirements?

To sign up for CNA courses, students must be 16 years of age or older. While it’s not required to get your CNA license, it’s highly recommended to also have basic life support certification (BLS) since a lot of employers require it. 

Related Content: Starting Your CNA Training: What to Know Before You Begin

What’s the CNA certification exam like?

After finishing your CNA classes, the CNA exam includes a written exam of 70 multiple-choice questions. Each of the questions is based on physical care skills, psychosocial care skills, and nurse aide responsibilities.

Where can I find state-approved CNA programs?

You can find state-approved, Red Cross-accredited CNA programs in your area through a simple search.

Related Content: How to Find the Best CNA Training Program

If you live in Minnesota and are hoping to find an accredited program, HeartCert offers accredited courses for the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. If you’re hoping to get a head start on your nursing career, sign up for classes before spots are filled.

Sign Up for CNA Classes Today

 

CNA Nursing Pathway

After getting your CNA certification, you might later decide to pursue the nursing pathway. If you’re heading in that direction, you may have a few questions on how to become an LPN or RN.

How does CNA experience help you become an LPN or RN?

CNA experience offers invaluable hands-on practice that can be useful later for clinicals and retaining information for your LPN and RN certification.

Many times, people with the end goal of becoming a nurse will start with their CNA certification before moving up the ladder. The experience allows them to see if the career is what they want to do long-term and helps them get invaluable hands-on practice.

What are the different work settings for a CNA?

While a hospital is the most well-known work setting for a CNA, they can also be found in various other work settings, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, clinics, and even home health care.

 

How to Start Your Career as a CNA

Not sure how to start your career as a CNA? If you’re hoping to open doors in your healthcare career by getting your CNA certification, there are various options available. The key is to find a Red Cross-accredited course like the ones offered at HeartCert.

If you’re in Minnesota and other nearby states, HeartCert offers quick, easy hybrid courses with both online and in-person options available. Ready to get started?

Sign Up Today Before Spots are Filled


HeartCert is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, TMA, IV, EKG and more, throughout the United States.

Courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.We offer virtual courses and certifications, in all 50 states as well as in-person classes at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan and major cities in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin.

 

Complete Your TMA Training in Just 2 Weeks

As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you are in a great position to have many different career opportunities available to you. One of the fastest ways you can increase your skillset, amplify your healthcare career and open new doors to employment options is by obtaining your Trained Medication Aide (TMA) certification. Keep reading to discover how you can achieve this with HeartCert in just 2 weeks!

TMA nurse explaining medicine dosage to senior woman at nursing home

Advance Your Healthcare Career Faster Than You Think

Starting and advancing your career in healthcare is easier than you might think. For those wanting to make a difference in people’s lives, the path to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can be paved in less than a month and from there, advancing your career as a Trained Medication Aide (TMA) can be accomplished in just two weeks.

Our accelerated path TMA training program not only equips you with essential skills but also enhances your employability in the ever-growing healthcare sector.

What Is TMA Training?

TMA, or Trained Medication Aide / Trained Medication Administration training, prepares students to assist with medication administration in various healthcare settings.

A Trained Medication Aide (TMA) is responsible for safely administering medications to patients, monitoring their responses, and following proper documentation of medication practices. TMA training builds upon the foundational skills healthcare professionals acquire as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). TMAs typically work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals, and fill a crucial role in supporting both patients and healthcare teams in medication management.

Learn More: What Is Trained Medication Administration and Why It Matters

Who Can Enroll in a TMA Program?

To enroll in a TMA program, you must have an active Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification. This program is particularly beneficial for CNAs who are looking to advance their careers and take the next step in their healthcare journey.

Discover: The Top Continuing Education Certifications for CNAs

How Long Does TMA Training Take?

When you sign up with HeartCert, you can have your TMA training program completed in as little as two weeks.

Although our training can help you fast-track your career, it doesn’t mean your certification will be rushed or incomplete. Our TMA training still meets all state standards, and you’ll develop essential skills and knowledge while receiving guidance from experienced professionals.

Get Our Guide On Your Path to Becoming a Trained Medication Aide

What You’ll Learn During TMA Training

During TMA training, you will learn necessary skills related to medication administration and safety, so that you understand the proper procedures to manage medications effectively and minimize risks for patients.

During the average trained medication aide class, you can expect to learn:

  • Knowledge of how medications work in the body
  • Legal requirements and ethical considerations 
  • Basic patient care and safety protocols
  • Patient observations after medicating

The training is intended to expand your knowledge of pharmacology, medication management, and patient assessment, all while improving your ability to provide quality care.

How is HeartCert’s TMA Training Structured?

HeartCert’s TMA course is a hybrid class program that includes a blend of in-person and online learning. Our students find that this format provides flexible scheduling while ensuring thorough training in the necessary information and techniques.

HeartCert’s TMA training program includes:

  • 48 hours of online instruction
  • Time needed for independent study
  • In-person lab days once a week
  • In-person final testing
  • One included retest, retraining, or remediation if needed

Benefits of Finishing Your TMA Training Quickly

Completing your TMA training quickly has several advantages that can significantly impact your career. By finishing sooner, you gain hands-on experience faster, stand out to employers, and have the opportunity to progress in your career sooner. For those currently working as CNAs, our flexible scheduling options make it easy to balance your work and training commitments.

Earn Your TMA Certification in Just 2 Weeks

Ready to take the next step in your healthcare career? Trained Medication Aide certification can serve as a stepping stone to CNAs for career advancement. With our flexible training that is designed to fit your schedule, earning your certification is easier and faster than you might think. Our two-week TMA program will give you the skills and confidence to succeed! Enroll today and start your path toward becoming a certified TMA.


HeartCert is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, TMA, IV, EKG and more, throughout the United States.

Courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available. We offer virtual courses and certifications, in all 50 states as well as in-person classes at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan and major cities in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin.

 

What Are My Payment Options for CNA Training

Thinking about starting CNA training but worried about the cost? You’re not alone; many prospective students have the same concern.

Making CNA Training Affordable and Accessible

The good news is that there are a variety of payment options designed to fit different budgets. This guide will help you understand and compare those options so you can choose what works best for you.

two nursing students sitting and talking while studying in hallway

How Much Does CNA Training Cost?

The full cost for a CNA training program will vary by location, duration, and the company providing instruction. At HeartCert, the costs for our Certified Nursing Training program will vary slightly by region, but generally range from $1,000 – $1,500. Please check here for the most current pricing information.

How Long Does CNA Training Take?

CNA Training Payment Options

1. Upfront Payment

Making a single upfront payment for your CNA training offers several benefits, such as a simple and straightforward approach to the freedom from ongoing financial obligations throughout the duration of the program. When choosing this payment method, students can focus on their studies without the added stress of managing installment payments.

While this can be a quick and convenient way to pay, it isn’t always practical. That’s why we’ll explore several other options for covering the cost of your CNA training.

2. Payment Plans

Payment plans for CNA training can be an ideal solution for many individuals to afford this step in their healthcare career. Programs will vary in what types of payment plans are available, but typically, payments will be made in a set amount of installments or on a monthly or bi-weekly basis. The major benefit is that it can be easier to budget by spreading out the costs over time rather than having to make a significant payment up front. Depending on the educator and program, there may be a higher cost for a payment plan over an upfront payment, or there may be interest, potential late fees and deadlines to consider.

At HeartCert, we offer our CNA students flexible payment plans so you can train while making scheduled payments toward your balance.

3. Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid and scholarships can provide vital financial support for students and provide opportunities to individuals who may otherwise not be available. These types of programs include federal and state assistance programs as well as scholarships specifically for healthcare students or certain demographics. To benefit from these opportunities, students should understand the application process and check the eligibility requirements. At HeartCert, we can provide information on aid and scholarships available in Minnesota and Iowa, how to check your eligibility, and help you understand the application process.

Starting Your CNA Training: What to Know Before You Begin

4. Employer or Workforce Programs

Another potential option for covering the costs of your Certified Nursing Assistant Training is funding from an employer or workplace. Many hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities offer programs that provide tuition reimbursement or sponsorship opportunities. Check with your existing or potential employer or place of employment to see if these options are available.

5. Loans and Alternative Financing

If you are unable to obtain financial support from state programs or from an employer, you may need to consider a private student loan from a financial institution or other financing options. These can be helpful if reimbursement or affordable payment options are not available. The benefit here is that it can allow you to move forward with your CNA training if you do not have the means to cover tuition costs; the downside is that these loans and their repayment terms may include interest and fees.

Tips for Choosing the Best CNA Training Payment Option

Determining which CNA training payment option is best for you requires some careful consideration. Of course, if scholarships or tuition reimbursement options are available, these are the ideal methods to pursue. If you will be covering the costs yourself, you should evaluate your budget and timeline and other personal circumstances to decide between paying upfront, a payment plan if available or personal loan financing. Compare the total cost of each option, including potential fees, to make a decision on what is ideal for you.

How to Find the Best CNA Training Program

Affordable CNA Training Program with HeartCert

At HeartCert, our Certified Nursing Assistant training program is designed to help you achieve certification with flexible class options, supportive instructors, and readiness for employment. We offer affordable tuition and payment plans to make CNA training accessible. We can also help you navigate options for financial aid, tuition reimbursements, and employer sponsorships.

With several payment options available, our goal is to provide an option that matches your budget and allows you to feel comfortable and confident in signing up for CNA training and taking the next step in your career.

Start Your CNA Career Today

Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding healthcare career? Our CNA training program is designed to give you the skills, confidence, and support you need to succeed. From hands-on instruction to guidance with certifications and employer requirements, we’re here every step of the way.

Enroll now or request more information to get started on your path to becoming a CNA.


HeartCert is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, TMA, IV, EKG and more, throughout the United States.

Courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.We offer virtual courses and certifications, in all 50 states as well as in-person classes at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan and major cities in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin.