To become a CNA in Arizona, a minimum of 120 hours of training must be completed at an accredited program, approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. These 120 hours are divided up into 80 hours of classroom learning and 40 hours of clinical experience. AHCA WORKS will cover the cost of this training and testing for approved applicants. To better understand the role, a CNA is a person who assists residents who may be ill, recovering from a surgery or are now living in a skilled nursing facility on a long term basis. CNAs provide assistance in bedside care and activities of daily living. They also assist with basic clinical services under the supervision of a nurse.

The typical day of a Certified Nursing Assistant includes taking resident’s vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, and moving, turning, or transporting residents. They may also assist in answering resident call lights, changing linens, feeding residents and documenting care in resident medical records.

CNAs are the heart and soul of every skilled nursing facility. They become important resident advocates as they are often the first to note signs or symptoms of illness and injury that may indicate a change in condition.