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Becoming a CNA in Kentucky

Steps to Become a SRNA in Kentucky

If you’re looking to become a State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA), also commonly referred to as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), in Kentucky, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to become an SRNA in Kentucky, from meeting the basic requirements to registering and maintaining your certification.

  • Meet Basic Requirements: Understand the prerequisites for SRNA school admission and certification.

  • Attend a School: Learn what to expect from SRNA programs and what to consider when selecting one.

  • Test Information: Get details about the Kentucky SRNA test and access a practice test.

  • Certification Registration and Upkeep: Know how to register your certification and keep it active.



1. Meet Basic Requirements

Before you can begin your SRNA training, you need to meet the state’s basic requirements. Kentucky has specific criteria to ensure that candidates are prepared to work in healthcare settings.

Basic Requirements for SRNA Training in Kentucky:

  • Age: You must be at least 16 years old to enroll in a CNA program.

  • Background Check: A criminal background check is required to ensure you’re eligible to work in a healthcare setting.

  • Vaccinations: You’ll need to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B, Influenza, Tuberculosis (TB), and COVID-19 or sign a waiver depending on the school or training facility’s requirements.

 

These basic qualifications set the foundation for your journey toward becoming a licensed SRNA in Kentucky.

2. Attend a School

Once you’ve met the basic requirements, the next step is to choose an SRNA training program. Kentucky has several approved programs, and each must meet specific state requirements.

 

SRNA Training Program Requirements in Kentucky:

All SRNA programs in Kentucky must consist of at least 75 hours of training, which includes both classroom theory and hands-on clinical practice. Of these, a minimum of 16 hours must be supervised clinical training in an approved nursing facility.

  • Classroom Hours (Theory): The classroom portion typically includes topics such as infection control, patient communication, residents’ rights, safety procedures, and basic nursing care.

  • Clinical Training: Clinical training takes place in a long-term care nursing facility, where students practice hands-on care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN).

Choosing an SRNA Program:

When selecting a program, consider the following factors:

  • Location and Schedule: Some schools offer accelerated courses, evening classes, or weekend options, depending on your availability.

  • Online or In-Person: While clinical training must be done in person, some schools offer online options for the classroom portion, providing flexibility if you have a busy schedule.

  • Cost: Training costs can vary from $400 to $1,200 depending on the program. Kentucky’s Medicaid program offers tuition reimbursement for CNAs who meet certain criteria, such as employment at a long-term care facility within 12 months of completing the program.

Popular SRNA Training Providers in Kentucky:

  • Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS): This is one of the primary providers of nurse aide training and testing in the state.

  • Private Healthcare Facilities: Some nursing homes and hospitals offer SRNA training as part of their employment programs.

Use the Free CNA School Search Tool to find a school near you. Just enter your zip code to see programs in your area.

Featured CNA Programs in Kentucky

Jefferson Community and Technical College

The Medicaid Nurse Aide program at Jefferson Community and Technical College offers flexible online course options, hands-on clinical training, and financial aid opportunities for a fast-track healthcare career. Read more…
$1,181
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Online

Nazareth Home

Nazareth Home offers free CNA training with job placement, competitive wages, and career growth opportunities, plus full benefits, making it a standout choice for those pursuing a healthcare career. Read more…
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Masonic Homes Kentucky

Masonic Homes Kentucky offers free, paid training with a clear career path, allowing participants to earn while they learn and providing $10,000 sign-on bonuses and advancement to LPN and RN roles. Read more…
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Online

RightChoice Nurse Aide Training

RightChoice offers self-paced online learning, small clinical class sizes, and all-inclusive tuition with no hidden fees, ensuring flexibility, personalized attention, and comprehensive preparation for success. Read more…
$765
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Kentucky Health Care Training Institute

This program offers a 10-day intensive schedule with experienced instructors, hands-on training, and flexible payment options, making it a fast and convenient path to starting a healthcare career. Read more…
$735
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Online

Health Careers Training Institute

HCTI offers flexible learning options, including a blended online course, small class sizes for personalized attention, and leadership by an experienced RN passionate about healthcare education. Read more…
$900
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3. Test Information

After completing your SRNA training, the next step is to pass the Kentucky Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) exam. This is a mandatory step for becoming a certified SRNA in the state.

Overview of the SRNA Exam:

The SRNA test consists of two parts:

  1. Written (or Oral) Exam: This part of the exam includes 75-100 multiple-choice questions covering topics like basic nursing skills, safety protocols, patient rights, and infection control.

  • Time Limit: 2 hours

  • Passing Score: You must achieve at least 70% to pass.

  • Oral Exam Option: You can choose to take an oral exam if preferred.

  1. Skills Evaluation: During this part of the exam, you will be asked to demonstrate 5 randomly selected skills from a list of 34. You’ll be evaluated on your ability to properly execute essential skills such as taking vital signs, performing patient transfers, and providing personal care.

  • Time Limit: 30 minutes

  • Passing Requirement: You must perform 4 out of the 5 skills correctly.

Exam Fees:

Here’s a breakdown of the exam costs in Kentucky:

  • Written/Oral Exam: $75 (includes both written and skills evaluation).

Preparing for the Exam:

Before taking the exam, it’s a good idea to take a practice test. We offer a comprehensive practice test to help you prepare for the written portion. Click here to access the practice test.

4. Certification Registration and Upkeep

Once you’ve passed the SRNA exam, you’ll be added to the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry. This step is necessary for you to legally work as a Nurse Aide in Kentucky.

Certification Registration Process:

After passing the exam, your name will be automatically added to the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry by KCTCS. This allows employers to verify your certification status.

  • When to Expect Results: Test results are typically available within 30 days after your exam date. Once you’ve passed, it will take about 30 days for your name to appear on the registry.

  • How to Check Your Status: You can check the status of your certification by logging into the Kentucky Board of Nursing’s Nurse Portal.

Keeping Your Certification Active:

SRNA certifications in Kentucky must be renewed every 24 months. To keep your certification active, you must:

  1. Work Requirement: Work at least 8 hours as a paid Nurse Aide during the two-year period. You must provide proof of employment, such as a W-2 form or a letter from your employer.

  2. Continuing Education: Complete 12 hours of in-service education annually. This is typically provided by your employer and covers topics like infection control and patient care.

Renewal Process:

Start the renewal process at least two months before your certification expires. If you fail to meet the work requirement within the 24-month period, your certification will expire, and you will need to retake the SRNA exam.

You can renew your certification online through the Kentucky Board of Nursing’s website. Be sure to keep your contact information up to date, as renewal reminders are no longer mailed out.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a State Register

Other Local CNA Programs

id Name Image Website Street Address City State Zip Code Map Link plus_code Phone latitude longitude latlong Category Reviews Rating 5star 4star 3star 2star 1star description Monday Hours Tuesday Hours Wednesday Hours Thursday Hours Friday Hours Saturday Hours Sunday Hours Details
731 Ashland Community & Technical College: College Drive Campus AF1QipMcqlMbeeU-GK51DdgQ-jlST0KETx0ogYd0KRai=w408-h257-k-no https://ashland.kctcs.edu/ 1400 College Drive Ashland KY 41101 F89X+MQ Ashland, Kentucky (606) 326-2000 38.47 -82.65 38.4691674-82.6505189 Community college 39 4.6 30 6 0 1 2 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
732 Big Sandy Community and Technical College AF1QipMdgzyo8vItUusLSP8AhYQoFXJgyScjgB0T6ALx=w455-h240-k-no https://bigsandy.kctcs.edu/ 1 Bert Combs Dr Prestonsburg KY 41653 M6QC+7F Prestonsburg, Kentucky (606) 886-3863 37.69 -82.78 37.688163-82.778796 College 30 4.3 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
733 Bluegrass Community & Technical College - Cooper Campus AF1QipNLK-J35r2oRKYzKSbuL_gNAHGjki5LlScg0Cy7=w408-h263-k-no https://bluegrass.kctcs.edu/about/campuses/cooper.aspx 470 Cooper Dr Lexington KY 40506 2FFW+WG Lexington, Kentucky (859) 246-6200 38.02 -84.50 38.0247912-84.5037084 Community college 62 3.1 27 4 2 7 22 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM Closed Closed More details
734 Elizabethtown Community and Technical College AF1QipO0868WOOpxhiuXvM1I8QRQ8Ga0-i7du6PrgyBB=w408-h306-k-no https://elizabethtown.kctcs.edu/ 600 College Street Rd Elizabethtown KY 42701 M4VC+6F Elizabethtown, Kentucky (270) 769-2371 37.69 -85.88 37.6931171-85.878818 Community college 86 4.3 60 15 0 2 9 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM Closed Closed More details
735 Hazard Community & Technical College: Hazard Campus AF1QipMZjgseNZyWU0SpDKYP0DJnO5j5a5RRoBMti6W8=w426-h240-k-no https://hazard.kctcs.edu/ 1 Community College Dr Hazard KY 41701 6RPF+56 Hazard, Kentucky (606) 436-5721 37.24 -83.18 37.2354267-83.1769806 Community college 23 4.6 20 1 0 0 2 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
736 Henderson Community College AF1QipMoaflBLKx3px5wnH1451RRkJv-C8TIlMF4gDjI=w408-h306-k-no https://henderson.kctcs.edu/ 2660 S Green St Henderson KY 42420 Q8WX+GQ Henderson, Kentucky (270) 827-1867 37.80 -87.65 37.7962806-87.6505734 Community college 26 4.0 14 6 2 0 4 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
737 Jefferson Community & Technical College: Downtown Campus AF1QipOEBjBgQV8jYABII2ypCxkMjkf4zFPl0irAvSRe=w408-h306-k-no https://jefferson.kctcs.edu/ 109 E Broadway Louisville KY 40202 66WW+FQ Louisville, Kentucky (502) 213-5333 38.25 -85.75 38.2461779-85.753025 College 92 3.5 43 16 1 5 27 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
738 Madisonville Community College (North Campus) AF1QipOsvPgYe4FSpIhvZb90QnRa67E9CcMOgWPLgrlD=w471-h240-k-no https://madisonville.kctcs.edu/ 2000 College Dr Madisonville KY 42431 9F6P+RR Madisonville, Kentucky (270) 821-2250 37.36 -87.51 37.3620681-87.5129623 College 23 4.4 17 3 1 0 2 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
739 Owensboro Community & Technical College: Main Campus AF1QipPoJKFe445e5xBmaDDvlVmYPXaKAnIqBfZgioQ=w511-h240-k-no https://owensboro.kctcs.edu/ 4800 New Hartford Rd Owensboro KY 42303 PW98+4W Owensboro, Kentucky (270) 686-4400 37.72 -87.08 37.7177816-87.0826919 Community college 31 4.0 18 4 5 0 4 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM 8:30AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
740 Somerset Community College AF1QipMGvovNPcN9uU4ssnbcdmIi19ks2EVxrrMg1aoH=w444-h240-k-no https://somerset.kctcs.edu/ 808 Monticello St Somerset KY 42501 395M+QF Somerset, Kentucky (606) 679-8501 37.06 -84.62 37.0593781-84.6163614 College 46 4.5 35 6 1 2 2 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM Closed Closed More details