The Role of a CNA
CNAs are fundamental members of the healthcare team. They are medical professionals who are responsible for providing support services to nurses and doctors. Their duties vary depending on the medical facility, but common tasks include assisting patients with personal hygiene, feeding, and helping them with mobility. Additionally, CNAs collect important patient information, maintain cleanliness in patient rooms, and assist with simple medical procedures. They also play a critical role in monitoring patient vital signs, hydration, and food intake. CNAs are the backbone of healthcare facilities, ensuring that patients receive the care they need.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the aging baby boomer population, which is increasing the demand for healthcare services, including long-term care.
Becoming a CNA in Illinois
Illinois offers various pathways to becoming a CNA, making it accessible to individuals with different backgrounds and experiences. Here are the primary ways to become a CNA in the state:
- Complete a CNA Training Course
One of the most common ways to become a CNA in Illinois is by enrolling in a state-approved CNA training course. These programs are offered by many community colleges, local medical facilities, care homes, and vocational schools. The advantage of these programs is their relatively short duration, typically lasting between one to three months, depending on the institution and your schedule. Most programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training to prepare you for the role effectively. It’s important to note that applicants often need a high school diploma or GED and may be required to undergo a physical exam and a criminal background check.
- Finish a Nursing Arts Course
Illinois allows nursing students who are still in school to work as CNAs while pursuing their degrees. This option is particularly beneficial if you wish to earn money and gain experience while working towards becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). After completing basic nursing classes and gaining some clinical experience, you can take the competency test administered by the state. The specific classes required may vary by institution but can include courses like Nursing 101, Fundamentals of Nursing, and Introduction to Nursing.
- Take a Written Competency Test
Regardless of the training path you choose, passing the Illinois competency test is a mandatory requirement for CNAs. This written test assesses your knowledge of proper patient care and basic medical concepts. Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale is responsible for administering this test, and they offer proctored exam sessions at multiple locations throughout the year. It’s essential to prepare thoroughly for this exam, and SIU provides test preparation materials, practice exams, and study guides to help you succeed. If you are unable to pass the test, you will need to complete another CNA training program before reattempting.
- Pass a Background Check and Receive Your License
In addition to the competency test, the state of Illinois mandates that CNA applicants complete a criminal background check. This step is crucial because CNAs often work with vulnerable populations, including seniors. Once your background check is successfully completed, you are eligible to receive your CNA license from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). With your license in hand, you can begin your journey towards a fulfilling career in healthcare.
- Recertify When Necessary
CNA licenses in Illinois do not require regular recertification. However, if you cease working as a CNA for 24 months or more, your certification becomes void. In such cases, you can regain your certification through SIU by passing a manual skills test with an approved evaluator and a written competency test.
What Do CNA Programs Teach?
CNA training programs are designed to equip students with the necessary clinical and interpersonal skills required to support nurses and doctors effectively. These programs cover a wide range of subjects, including:
- Basic first-aid skills
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Measuring and recording vital signs
- Hygiene and sanitation
- Professional etiquette
- Human anatomy
- Wound care
- Patient caregiving
- Range-of-motion exercises
The Health Care Worker Registry
The Health Care Worker Registry (registry) is an essential component of the CNA certification process. It lists individuals who have undergone a background check as mandated by the Health Care Worker Background Check Act. It also includes training information for certified nursing assistants and other healthcare workers. The registry is maintained by the Department of Public Health, and individuals must meet specific requirements before being listed as an Illinois CNA.
Illinois CNA Requirements
To be listed on the registry as an Illinois CNA, you must meet one of the following requirements:
- Successfully complete an Illinois-approved CNA training program and pass a written competency test.
- Successfully complete a nursing arts course (e.g., Basics in Nursing, Fundamentals of Nursing, Nursing 101, etc.), pass a written competency test, and provide written verification of completing the fundamentals of nursing and at least 40 hours of supervised clinical experience in an accredited nurse training program.
- Successfully complete a U.S. military training program equivalent to a nurse aide training program, provide evidence of 40 hours of clinical experience, and pass a written competency test.
- Successfully complete a nursing program equivalent to an LPN or RN in a foreign country, provide translated proof of course completion, official transcripts, a Social Security card, and pass a written competency test.
- Be listed on another state’s registry for CNAs, meet specific requirements, and have no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property on the registry.
- If an individual’s CNA certification lapses due to a 24-month period of inactivity, they can regain their certification by passing a manual skills test and a written competency test.
Federal Requirements for CNAs in Long-Term Care Facilities
If you aspire to work as a CNA in a federally certified long-term care facility in Illinois, you must meet specific federal requirements in addition to state mandates. These requirements include:
- Completing 16 hours of classroom training in a state-approved CNA training program before any direct contact with residents.
- Not performing duties for which you have not been trained and found proficient by an instructor.
- Providing services to residents under the general supervision of a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
- Completing a state-approved nurse aide training and competency evaluation (NATCEP) or competency evaluation (CEP) if you plan to work full-time for more than four months.
- Facilities must have provided CEP for individuals used as nurse aides by the facility as of January 1, 1990.
- Completing a new NATCEP or CEP if you have not performed nursing or nursing-related services for monetary compensation for 24 consecutive months since your last completion.
- Not working on a temporary, per diem, leased, or any other basis as a nurse aide unless you have completed NATCEP or CEP and are competent to provide nursing or nursing-related services.