Caregiver Certification 101
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At Certified Caregivers US, certified and non-certified caregivers and CNAs can apply with a resume and find the right employers. Caregiver certification training provides applicants with all necessary information for professional caregiving to improve the level of quality care and enhances their chances for successful and fast hiring. Non-certified caregivers are still sought-after specialists, but caregiver certification can build more trust with clients, open various prospects as well as the employments which require certification obligatorily.

American Caregiver Certification

The caregiving certification process differs from state to state. Most states require 8 or 10 hours of training, and some require additional licensure (mostly, Personal Care). Caregiver certification courses are developed by the senior care industry’s association and organized to meet state requirements. American caregiver certification costs $50-80 and includes such steps:

  • Review course materials do practice quiz;
  • Take an exam;
  • Receive a certificate if you pass at 75%;
  • If necessary, retake the examination to reach the passing score.

Also, you may find other caregiver certification options for more specialized areas or staff training.

Professional Association of Caregivers and Other Societies

You may purchase caregiver certification training by itself or within the membership in the Professional Association of Caregivers (P.A.C.). P.A.C. is a reputable community supporting professional caregivers and helping enhance caregiving skills. With this association, caregivers can easily keep up with the industry’s updates, care innovations, new legislative initiatives, as well as receive caregiver education.

There are more other comprehensive and specialized associations for professional caregivers with a lot of valuable information and support, such as The American Geriatrics Society (AGS), Alzheimer’s Association, The Gerontological Society of America, etc.

National Caregiver Certification

As with state caregiver certification, to become nationally certified, you need to complete the online training and then take an exam to prove your knowledge. The costs start from $79 and depend on the program (basic, advanced, etc.) you choose.

More Specialized Caregiver Certification Training

Certified Nursing Assistant Training

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training can expand your job search chances. With this type of training, you need to make sure it’s customized to your state requirements. Caregivers can take courses at Nurse Assistant Training (NAT) by the American Red Cross, local colleges, nursing schools, etc.

First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Care

This semi-medical certification training can prepare you for various accidents and emergencies – from minor cuts or burns to professional situation management until an ambulance arrives.

Home Health Aide License

Home Health Aide license (HHA) is an excellent addition to the basic caregiver certification. You’ll learn or improve your knowledge in basic medical care, emergency response, patient care, and support.

Specific Conditions and Needs

There is no limit of what courses to attend or where to go studying as all depends on a particular patient’s requirements or the field of your interests – dementia, diabetes, Parkinson’s care certification, and so on. Opt for reputable state-approved courses, or attend care-related seminars, conferences, etc.

Our Skills and Requirements to Certified Caregivers

If you want to join Certified Caregivers US’s devoted team full time as a Certified Caregiver, here are the obligatory skills and requirements:

  • Annual TB test (if required, a Chest X-ray);
  • Caregiver Certification (thru Directed Level of Care) issued by your state-approved training program;
  • Fingerprint Clearance Card (or the ability to obtain one);
  • Must be able to read and understand labels, have experience administering medications;
  • Must be able to assist in Residents’ evacuation;
  • Must be First Aid, CPR certified.

With this information, you may consider your chances for suitable employment with and without caregiver certification. As training isn’t free and may appear time-consuming, it also might be an important factor whether you need it or not. We’ll help all caregivers get the right job, and you should think of ways to enhance the future prospects.