Top Certification Courses for CNAs in 2024: Boost Your Healthcare Career Today
If you’re a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking to elevate your career, 2024 is a strong year to pursue targeted certifications. Additional credentials can expand your scope of practise, increase job opportunities, and position you for higher pay. Whether you want to specialize in geriatrics, refine patient-care skills, or add clinical competencies like IV therapy (where permitted), ther’s a certification path that fits your goals and your state’s regulations. In this guide,you’ll find the top CNA certification courses in 2024,practical tips for choosing the right program,and real-world insights to help you boost your healthcare career today.
why certification matters for CNAs in 2024
- Expanded job opportunities: Employers often prefer CNAs with extra credentials when filling roles such as patient care technicians (PCTs),dementia care specialists,or medication aides.
- Higher earning potential: Additional certifications can lead to wage premiums, shift differentials, or opportunities to work in higher-demand units (geriatrics, long-term care, inpatient settings).
- Improved patient outcomes: Certifications signal specialized knowledge that improves safety, dialog, and quality of care for patients and residents.
- Career mobility: Some certifications create a ladder from CNA to more advanced roles like licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN) through additional schooling.
- Continuing education credits: Many certifications count toward CEUs that help you maintain your CNA license while staying current with best practices.
Top certification courses for CNAs in 2024
Below are the most popular CNA certification courses that CNAs pursue in 2024. Each entry includes what it covers, delivery options, typical duration, and the career impact you can expect. Always verify state-specific requirements before enrolling, as scope of practice varies by state.
1. CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers
this foundational credential is widely recommended for CNAs. A CPR/BLS certification ensures you can respond quickly in emergencies, manage airway and circulation issues, and support the patient during resuscitation scenarios. Many employers require BLS as part of standard onboarding.
Adult, child, and infant CPR; use of an automated external defibrillator (AED); choking relief; safe, effective rescue techniques. Online coursework paired with in-person skills sessions; 4-6 hours total. $25-$70 for purely online courses; $60-$100 for blended programs. Increases employability across acute care, long-term care, and home health settings; frequently enough required for patient-facing roles.
2. Medication Aide (MA) Certification
Medication Aide certification can allow CNAs to administer certain non-injectable medications under supervision in many states. Availability, scope, and prerequisites vary, so check your state’s requirements before enrolling.
Safe medication management, handling, documentation, and basic pharmacology; state-specific drug administration rules. Blended courses with state exams; often 40-120 hours depending on state. $400-$1000, depending on program length and location. Opens doors to roles like MA in assisted living facilities and skilled nursing facilities; can boost earnings and responsibilities.
3. Patient Care Technician (PCT) Certification
The PCT credential blends CNA skills with additional clinical competencies such as basic phlebotomy and electrocardiogram (EKG) interpretation. It’s a powerful way to stand out when applying for hospital or long-term care roles.
CNA fundamentals plus basic phlebotomy, EKG basics, vital signs, hygiene and infection control, patient transfer and mobility assist, and documentation. In-person programs, hybrid formats, or fully online tracks with hands-on labs. $600-$2,000 depending on duration and whether labs are included. - Career impact: Often leads to PCT roles in hospitals or clinics; improved job mobility and potential for higher pay.
4. Geriatric Nursing assistant (GNA) and Geriatric Care Certifications
GNA credentials or specialized geriatrics training focus on the unique needs of older adults. This is especially valuable in long-term care, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice settings.
Age-related health issues, mobility assistance, dementia care, fall prevention, dignity and communication with elderly patients. Online modules with hands-on clinicals or in-person workshops; often part of state CNA refinement programs. $150-$800, depending on depth and whether it’s bundled with CNA renewal. Increases employment options in long-term care, assisted living, and memory care units; higher patient-satisfaction outcomes.
5. Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care Certification
With a growing aging population, specialized dementia care training helps CNAs communicate effectively and manage challenging behaviors with empathy and safety.
Behavioral strategies, communication techniques, environmental cues, and safety protocols for residents with cognitive impairment. Short online courses, workshops, or certificate programs carried out in a few hours to a few weeks. $50-$300 per course. Valued in memory care units and general care facilities; improves patient engagement and reduces incidents.
6. Infection Control, infection prevention, and OSHA Safety Training
Staying current on infection prevention and workplace safety is essential for CNAs. These certifications help minimize healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and protect staff and residents.
Hand hygiene, PPE use, sterilization basics, sharps safety, waste disposal, and regulatory compliance. online self-paced courses or instructor-led sessions; frequently enough 2-6 hours. $20-$150 per course. Demonstrates commitment to patient safety and is frequently required for facility onboarding.
7.Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Documentation Training
Strong documentation skills are critical in modern healthcare.EHR training improves accuracy, compliance, and interoperability across units.
Charting standards, HIPAA basics, privacy and security, and digital record-keeping best practices. Short online modules,often 2-8 hours; some programs include hands-on software practice. $0-$250, depending on provider and depth. Aids in smoother shifts, audits, and interprofessional communication; highly valued in hospitals and clinics.
8. IV Therapy Certification (where permitted)
IV therapy for CNAs is state-dependent. In some states, CNAs can pursue IV therapy certification or skill add-ons with additional supervision; in others, this scope is reserved for LPNs/RNs. If permitted in your state, this credential can significantly expand your clinical duties.
In-person labs and supervised practice; exams may be required by the state. $300-$1,500 depending on state requirements and program length. Opens up more assignments in skilled nursing facilities and hospital units requiring IV support (where allowed).
9. Vital Signs and Basic Clinical Skills refreshers
Refreshers on vitals (BP, pulse, respiration, temperature) and basic clinical assessment remain essential for CNAs. These micro-credentials ensure you stay proficient and accurate during patient observations.
Accurate measurement techniques, recognizing abnormal findings, and proper documentation. Short online or in-person courses; often bundled with other certifications. $25-$150 per course. Improves patient safety and confidence on every shift; a staple for ongoing education.
How to choose the right CNA certification course
Selecting the right course depends on your career goals, state regulations, time availability, and budget. Consider these practical steps:
Some certifications are optional add-ons; others are mandatory or not permitted in your state. If you want hospital exposure, PCT or EHR training may be more valuable. For long-term care, geriatrics and dementia care certifications can be transformative. Online vs. in-person vs. hybrid. if you need hands-on labs, choose programs that include supervised practical sessions. Compare tuition, materials, and time-to-certification. Some employers reimburse or subsidize tuition. Favor programs offered by accredited institutions,hospitals,or recognized professional associations (e.g., american Heart Association for CPR, relevant state boards). Many certifications require renewal every 1-3 years. Factor ongoing costs and time into your plan.
Swift comparison: CNA-related certifications at a glance
use this snapshot to weigh your options. The table highlights core features of each certification type. Data is indicative; always verify current state offerings and prerequisites.
| Certification | Key Skills | Delivery | Typical Duration | Cost Range | career Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPR/BLS for Healthcare Providers | CPR,AED,choking relief | Online + in-person skills | 4-6 hours | $25-$100 | Essential safety credential; widely required |
| Medication Aide (MA) | non-injectable meds administration,documentation | Blended; state exams often required | 40-120 hours | $400-$1000 | Broader clinical responsibilities where allowed |
| Patient Care Technician (PCT) | Vital signs,phlebotomy basics,EKG basics | In-person/online/hybrid | 4-12 weeks | $600-$2,000 | Hospital and multifaceted clinical roles; higher pay |
| Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) | Geriatric care,mobility,dementia care | In-person/hybrid | 2-8 weeks | $150-$800 | strong demand in long-term care and memory care |
| Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care Certification | Behavior management,communication | Online/workshops | 4-40 hours | $50-$300 | Improved patient engagement and safety |
| Infection Control & OSHA Training | HAIs prevention,PPE,safety protocols | Online or in-person | 2-6 hours | $20-$150 | Core competency; broad applicability |
| EHR/Digital Documentation Training | Charting,HIPAA basics,privacy | Online | 2-8 hours | $0-$250 | Improved accuracy and compliance |
| IV Therapy Certification (state-permitted) | IV access,safety,monitoring | In-person labs | 1-4 weeks | $300-$1,500 | Expands clinical duties where allowed |
Benefits and practical tips for pursuing CNA certifications
Certifications demonstrate commitment and competence,often leading to higher pay or preference for shifts with more responsibility. If you’re new to certain skills (phlebotomy, IVs), prioritize programs with hands-on practice to build confidence. Look for employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement, scholarships, or state-funded CEU programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Connect with supervisors and trainers to discover in-house training tracks and internal promotions.
First-hand experiences and case studies
Hearing from fellow CNAs who pursued certifications can be inspiring. Here are two concise, anonymized examples that illustrate real-world impact:
Case 1: Maria, a CNA in a long-term care facility, earned the GNA certification and a dementia care credential. Within six months, she was assigned to the memory care unit, took on lead patient activities, and received a small wage uplift. Maria reported higher job satisfaction from building meaningful relationships with residents and families.
Case 2: Jamal, working in a hospital outpatient unit, completed a PCT program that included basic phlebotomy and EKG. He secured a PCT role with the same hospital, earning higher pay and more versatile duties. Jamal notes that the added certifications opened opportunities for cross-training and potential future advancement to a clinical technician role.
conclusion: Start today and turbocharge your CNA career in 2024
Investing in the right CNA certification courses in 2024 can dramatically shift your career trajectory. Whether you’re aiming for broader clinical responsibilities, a transition into hospital settings, or specialized care in geriatrics and dementia, there’s a path that aligns with your goals, budget, and state regulations. Begin with essential credentials like CPR/BLS, then consider add-ons such as PCT, MA, or geriatric-focused certifications to maximize impact. Remember to verify your state’s scope of practice, choose credible programs, and plan for ongoing ceus to keep your certifications current. With the right combination of training and hands-on experience, you can enhance patient care, secure better job prospects, and build a more rewarding healthcare career today.
Ready to take the next step? Start by listing your career goals, checking your state requirements, and selecting 1-2 high-impact CNA certification courses to pursue in the next 90 days. Your future self-and the patients you serve-will thank you.
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