CNA certification is an expert credential that is often a requirement by employers in order to practice in the nursing field.  It is not a compulsory program, but it is very beneficial for a number of reasons. You can be titled a nurse, but to call yourself "certified" means that you must carry a paper that states you have met the necessary requirements in learning and demonstrated particular skills in your field.  A regulatory body is necessary for health care careers as work you carry out in this arena could be a matter of life or death.  It is important that both employers and patients know that a CNA is up to the same high standard as their coworkers in the field.  Patients must be able to trust that the caregiver is able to carry out their duties in a proficient and highly skilled manner.  Being certified shows patients that you are credible.

CNA certification is a requirement to obtain the respect and credentials for working in the health care field.  CNA certification puts everyone on notice that you are competent and qualified in your field of service.  That you are up-to-date and current in your area of expertise. It shows that rigorous requirements have been met and achieved.  Having certification shows that you are sincere and committed to your profession and specialty.  It also shows potential employers that you have a desire to challenge your skills and knowledge at a higher level.  You are also becoming more prepared for greater responsibility or advancement within your career.

The option to obtain CNA certification will be offered to you once you complete your CNA training.  There are many different areas of specialty for CNAs that can be certified.  Anything from gerontology to oncology and more.  The certification process requires that you write an exam.  Exams will contain different sections to test your learning in the specific area.  Different sections within the exam will include: multiple choice, independent questions, and case-based questions.  All questions are surrounded by the finding out your competency, knowledge and comprehension, application and critical thinking for this field. 

Preparation guides containing resources and sample exam questions are often available by the organization. Practice questions and an answer sheet can be invaluable in studying for the exam. A bibliography for the material used in the exams is also available. Study groups can be found online or in person locally which are an immense help. Studying with others will help you focus on extensive literature review and you may even find you are learning something new that you missed while taking your studies. Formal study groups are out there which are lead by a certified nurse as a mentor. To find a CNA certification study group, check with the organization or with your school. Groups are often available by the location you live. If desiring a study group in person, to get the most out of it, you must attend, you must study, and you must participate. This will make it beneficial for all participants.

Once you achieve CNA certification, you'll have committed yourself to a national standard of professional competence. One that demonstrates your understanding in your area of nursing. You will receive a designation that you can add to your name. The designation will depend on your area of expertise. CNA certification is usually given for a five year term. After which time, you will need to renew it to maintain your certification. A required number of hours nursing during a time period or a rewrite of the exam is usually all that is required to renew your certification.