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Becoming a CNA in Missouri

Steps to Become a CNA in Missouri

 

  1. Meet Basic Requirements: Fulfill the state’s eligibility criteria for admission to a CNA program and certification.
  2. Attend a School: Enroll in a state-approved CNA program in Missouri and understand what to look for when choosing a program.
  3. Pass the CNA Exam: Learn about the structure of the state’s CNA certification exam and how to prepare.
  4. Certification Registration and Upkeep: How to register as a CNA in Missouri and maintain your active status over time.

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1. Meet Basic Requirements

Before you can enroll in a CNA training program in Missouri, you need to meet certain basic eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that you are ready to take on the responsibilities of a CNA.

Basic Eligibility Requirements for Missouri CNA Programs:

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old to enroll in most CNA programs in Missouri. However, students who are at least 16 years old may enroll if they are part of a secondary school health services occupation program or a cooperative work education program.
  • Criminal Background Check: You will need to pass a criminal background check. Missouri does not allow individuals with certain felony convictions or specific misdemeanors to work as CNAs. You also cannot be listed on the Employee Disqualification List (EDL).
  • Health Requirements: You must be in good physical health and provide proof of up-to-date immunizations, including a TB test.
  • Identification: You’ll need to present a valid photo ID and a Social Security card.

Meeting these basic requirements allows you to move forward and enroll in a CNA training program.

2. Attend a School

After ensuring that you meet the basic eligibility requirements, the next step is to enroll in a state-approved CNA training program. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) oversees CNA programs and ensures they meet the state’s educational standards.

CNA Training Program Requirements in Missouri:

  • Classroom Hours: Missouri CNA programs must include 75 hours of classroom instruction. During this time, students will learn the fundamental skills needed to provide quality care to patients. Topics covered include basic nursing skills, fire safety, patient rights, and communication.
  • Clinical Training: In addition to classroom instruction, students must complete 100 hours of clinical training. This hands-on training takes place under the supervision of a licensed nurse (RN or LPN) in a healthcare facility, such as a nursing home or hospital. Clinical training allows students to practice skills like taking vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, and helping with mobility.

Choosing a CNA Program in Missouri:

Here are some considerations to keep in mind when selecting a CNA program:

  • Location and Schedule: Consider whether the program’s schedule fits your availability. Some programs offer evening or weekend classes, which can be ideal for students who work during the day.
  • Accreditation: Make sure that the program is state-approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Only graduates from approved programs are eligible to take the CNA certification exam.
  • Cost: The cost of a CNA program in Missouri varies, typically ranging from $400 to $1,500. Some nursing facilities or healthcare providers may offer to cover the cost of tuition in exchange for a work commitment after graduation.
  • Program Length: CNA programs can be completed in as little as 6 to 15 weeks. Some programs even offer accelerated 4-week courses, but these are more intensive.

Once you have successfully completed your CNA training, you’ll be eligible to take the state certification exam.

Featured CNA Programs in Missouri

Saint Luke’s

Assumpta Allied Health Career Center

Medical Education Development & Support, LLC

Excelsior Springs Job Corps Center


3. Pass the CNA Exam

After completing your training, the next step is to pass the CNA certification exam, which is required to become a licensed CNA in Missouri. The exam is managed by Headmaster D&S and consists of two parts: a written test and a skills test.

Structure of the Missouri CNA Exam:

  1. Written (or Oral) Exam:

 

  • The written exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions and is given in English. If you prefer, you can opt for the oral version of the exam, which includes the same number of questions.
  • You will have 2 hours to complete this portion of the test.
  • The cost for the written or oral exam is $95.

  1. Skills Test:

  • The skills test involves demonstrating 5 randomly selected CNA skills under the supervision of a nurse aide evaluator. You will have 30 minutes to complete the test.
  • Some of the skills you may be asked to perform include handwashing, transferring a patient, and measuring vital signs.
  • The cost for the skills test is $30.

Exam Preparation:

To improve your chances of passing the exam, it’s a good idea to take practice tests. Click here to access our CNA exam practice test and get familiar with the types of questions you’ll encounter on the exam.

Retaking the Exam:

If you do not pass either the written or skills portion of the exam on your first try, you can retake each section twice more. However, if you fail three times, you must retake the CNA training program before attempting the exam again.

4. Certification Registration and Upkeep

Once you pass the CNA exam, your name will be added to the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry, and you will officially be a Certified Nursing Assistant. However, there are steps you need to follow to keep your certification active.

How to Register as a CNA in Missouri:

  • After passing the CNA exam, you will need to create an account on Missouri’s TMU system (TestMaster Universe). This portal allows you to check your CNA status, print your certificate, and update your personal information.
  • You can print your CNA certificate directly from the TMU system after it is processed.

CNA Certification Renewal in Missouri:

CNA certifications in Missouri must be renewed every 24 months. To maintain your active status on the Nurse Aide Registry, you must:

  • Work at least 8 hours providing nursing or nursing-related services in a paid position within the two-year period.
  • Submit proof of your employment to the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry. Acceptable proof includes a pay stub, W-2, or a letter from your employer on company letterhead verifying your dates of employment.

If you fail to renew your certification or meet the work requirement, your CNA status will become inactive.

Inactive and Expired Certification:

  • Inactive: If your CNA certification shows a two-year break in employment, it will be marked as inactive. To reactivate your status, you may be required to challenge the CNA exam again.
  • Expired: If your certification has been inactive for five years or more, you will need to retrain at an approved CNA program and pass the exam again to regain active status.

CNA Reciprocity in Missouri

If you are currently certified as a CNA in another state and want to work in Missouri, you may apply for reciprocity. This process allows you to transfer your CNA license to Missouri without retaking the training or exam. You must submit proof that you are in good standing in your current state to the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry.

 

Summary of CNA Certification Process in Missouri

Step Details
Training Program 75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of clinical training
Exam Structure Written Exam (75 questions) and Skills Test (5 random skills)
Certification Validity 2 years
Renewal Requirements Work at least 8 hours in nursing-related services within 24 months
Exam Costs Written Exam: $95, Skills Test: $30, Total: $125
Application Managed through the TMU system (online portal)

 

By following these steps, you can successfully become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Missouri. This career is a rewarding path for individuals interested in healthcare, and Missouri offers a variety of programs to help you achieve your CNA certification. Whether you are just starting out or transferring from another state, the process is straightforward, and the demand for CNAs continues to grow across healthcare settings.

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