CNA Training in Hawaii

The population of the state of Hawaii continues to grow as the state experiences seasonal influxes of tourism and the relocation of many retirees who are seeking warmer climates. As the population of Hawaii grows, its healthcare needs are growing as well. Like many of the mainland United States, Hawaii’s need for qualified healthcare workers will continue to increase in the coming years. There will be a rise in job openings for nurses and CNAs. Becoming a CNA is a good first step into the medical field. CNA certification is fairly quick to complete compared to other entry-level training. Getting a job as a CNA is the beginning to advancing in the expanding medical industry.

The requirements for becoming a licensed CNA in Hawaii are set in place by the state’s Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Before individuals can legally work as a CNA in Hawaii they must pass all of the state guidelines. The first step in becoming a CNA is to complete a state-approved CNA training program. State-approved programs are made up of at least 100 hours of training, 30 of which are spent in classroom learning and class work and 70 of which are spent in practical training. Most of the practical training will take place in various clinical locations depending on the program. The teaching and instruction in the CNA courses is done by registered nurses who have had at least two years of experience.

After completing a CNA training course, individuals can take the state approved CNA competency examination. This exam is made up of two parts: a written assessment and a practical assessment. Once an individual has passed both parts of this exam the only remaining requirement to becoming a CNA is to have a background check, which investigates criminal history. After passing the background check, a person will be placed on the Hawaii Nurses Aid Registry. Appearing on the registry gives individuals the ability to work legally as a CNA in both private and public hospital and clinical settings, and other healthcare facilities anywhere in the state. Some hospitals in Hawaii do offer Free CNA Training courses for certain applicants that qualify for such assistant. To learn more contact your local hospital to learn more.

Some of the state-approved CNA certification training programs found in Hawaii are listed below:

Maui Community College, a branch of the University of Hawaii, offers a Nurse Aid Training course which takes one semester and prepares students for the state CNA certification exam. Anyone may register for the course and it is made up of six credits.

Kapiolani Community College offers a Long-Term Care Nurse Aide Training program. The program prepares students for the state CNA certification exam through 150 hours of instruction. The school records that almost all students who complete the course at their location pass the state exam.

Kaua’i Community College offers a CNA Certificate of Completion program. The program is made up of 150 hours, 90 of which are spent in lab or clinical settings and 50 of which are spent in the classroom. The program focuses on special needs of the geriatric population. The school keeps class sizes to a maximum of ten students in order to focus on making sure each student is well-prepared.

The Healthcare School of Hawaii located in Aiea has a Nurse Assisting class that prepares students to take the CNA certification exam or to become re-certified. Classes are offered in the days, evenings, or on weekends so that individuals with hectic schedules will be able to find the time to complete the program.