Becoming a CNA in Florida

1. Requirements for Becoming a CNA in Florida

To begin the process of becoming a CNA in Florida, you must first meet several basic requirements set by the Florida Board of Nursing. These requirements ensure that you are eligible to take the CNA exam and perform the duties of a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Basic Eligibility:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old or hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). However, some programs may allow individuals as young as 16 to enroll.
• Education: While a high school diploma is not always required to enter a CNA program, many employers may prefer candidates who have one. Additionally, you need to complete a state-approved CNA training program, unless you are challenging the exam without formal training.
• Background Screening: All CNA candidates in Florida are required to undergo a Level II background check. This involves Livescan electronic fingerprinting, which checks both state and national criminal history. You must pass this background check to proceed with the certification process.
• Fingerprinting: You’ll need to submit your fingerprints to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). This can be done at any approved Livescan service provider, and the results will be sent directly to the Florida Board of Nursing.

Special Considerations for Criminal Records:

If you have a criminal record, you may still be able to become a CNA in Florida, but it depends on the nature of the offense. You will need to disclose all convictions, and for more severe crimes such as healthcare fraud or violent offenses, you may need to submit extra documentation, such as:

• Letters of Recommendation: Three to five letters from people who know you professionally or personally.
• Self-Explanation: A letter in your own words explaining the circumstances of the offense and your rehabilitation process.
• Court Records: Copies of the final disposition or arrest records for the offense(s).
• Completion of Probation/Parole: Documentation proving that you have completed probation, parole, or any other court-ordered sanctions.

Make sure to fully disclose your history; failure to do so could result in the denial of your application. Once these items are submitted, the Florida Board of Nursing will review them on a case-by-case basis.

2. Attending a CNA Program in Florida

While Florida does allow candidates to “challenge” the CNA exam without attending a formal CNA program, most people opt for the more straightforward route of attending a state-approved CNA training program. This will prepare you with the knowledge and skills you need to pass the state exam and start working as a CNA.

Key Considerations for Choosing a CNA Program:

• State Approval: Ensure that the program you choose is accredited and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. This is essential for you to be eligible to take the state exam after completing the course.
• Program Length: In Florida, CNA training programs typically range from 4 to 15 weeks in length, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. For those in a hurry, there are accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as four weeks.
• Curriculum Requirements: The state of Florida requires that CNA programs include at least 120 hours of training, broken down into:
• 80 hours of classroom instruction, covering topics like infection control, communication, and patient care.
• 40 hours of clinical practice, with a minimum of 20 hours taking place in a licensed nursing home or long-term care facility under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN).

Sample CNA Program Curriculum in Florida:

During your classroom and clinical training, you will learn important topics, including:

• Personal care and hygiene
• Basic nursing skills
• Patient rights
• Infection control procedures
• CPR and first aid

In clinical practice, you’ll apply these skills by working with actual patients under supervision.

Cost of CNA Programs in Florida:

The cost of CNA programs in Florida varies depending on the provider and location, but it typically ranges from $400 to $1,500. Some programs may also have additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and supplies.

Many community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities offer CNA training programs. You may also be eligible for financial aid, scholarships, or free CNA training through certain nursing homes or long-term care facilities if you agree to work for them after becoming certified.