The State of Hawaii is renowned the world over for approving many CNA training programs. Here you will learn on how to locate state-approved training programs and the certification requirements set in place by the state of Hawaii. It is the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs that is in charge of approving CNA training programs in the State of Hawaii hence maintains an updated registry of all certified nursing assistants who are legally certified to work in the state of Hawaii. It therefore goes without saying that unless you meet all set requirements and appear in the nurse aide’s registry, you will not be able to work legally as a CNA in Hawaii.
Just like in other states, a Certified Nursing Assistant in Hawaii can work in a long-term care facility, a nursing home, private doctor offices, or in private and public hospital and clinic settings. The basic qualification requirements include:-
- To be able to complete a state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant training program
- Sit and pass the state approved CNA competency examination which is made up of both written and practical assessment tests.
- Pass a background check on your criminal history
If you had trained for CNA in another state and want to get certification in Hawaii, you don’t have to go back to class and go through the whole process. You need to contact the HI Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and enquire of likely reciprocity. By the same token, if you are enrolled in a certified nursing degree program or perhaps have just graduated from a certified and recognized nursing program, you should also contact the same department to establish if you can qualify to be exempted from the CNA qualifier’s examination.
Even though the certification programs will differ from one learning institution to another across Hawaii, the basic elements that all training programs include:-
- At least 100 hours of training, 30 hours which cover class work and the remaining 70 cover practical training
- Instruction and lectures from a Registered Nurse with a minimum of two years working and/ or teaching experience
Some of the skills learned in class include:
- Interpersonal skills
- Emergency and safety measures and procedures
- Patient’s rights
- Infection control
Currently, the State of Hawaii approves over 29 CNA training programs, most of which are to be found in Local Red Cross Centers, Community colleges, community centers, and in adult training institutions. With the aging population in Hawaii growing rapidly, Certified Nursing Assistant jobs are expected to be in high demand for many years to com; hence the profession is a perfect one if you are looking to start a career in the health care sector.