CNA Certification in Missouri

In order to work as a certified nursing assistant in Missouri, you will need to go through the process of receiving your certification.  In most cases you will work under the direction of nurses if you work as a CNA.  In a job as a certified nursing assistant, you will provide care for patients in a healthcare or home health setting.

Minimum Training Hours and Requirements for Missouri

Missouri has more extensive training requirements for certified nursing assistants than some other states.  They require 175 total hours of training.  There must be 75 classroom hours and 100 clinical hours at a minimum.  The programs are designed and approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services.

Training programs will prepare you to provide safe and compassionate care for patients.  You will learn to protect the privacy and dignity of patients.  Training classes will teach you safety information and communication skills. These are just a few of the subjects that will be covered during your training.

Upon completion of training, you will need to take the written and skills portions of the nursing assistant certification exam.  Both parts will need to be passed for you to receive certification.

Transfer CNA Certification From Another State to Missouri

It is often possible to transfer a nursing assistant certification from another state to Missouri. You can apply with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to challenge the training requirements in the state of Missouri if you hold a valid certification in another state. Information on transferring your certification can be found at: http://health.mo.gov/safety/cnaregistry//.

You will need to complete the steps listed below to be considered for transfer of your certification. It will also be necessary to send a copy of your nursing assistant certification and your social security card. In addition, you will need to provide documentation to prove you have worked as a nursing assistant (or providing nursing related skills) for a minimum of 8 hours in the last two years.

The steps are as follows:

1. Check with the nursing aide registry where you are currently certified to make certain your certification is not only in good standing but is still active.
2. Obtain a copy of your Nursing Assistant Certificate from your former state to submit to the state of Missouri. If your current active dates or employment dates are not tracked on your state’s registry, you must submit proof of employment within the last 2 years.
3. Send a copy of your social security card.
4. Write a letter to the Health Education Unit in Missouri. Request the right to challenge the CNA exam since you are already listed as an active CNA in another state. Make sure to include your return address and daytime telephone number. Mail all documents to:

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services- Attn: Health Education Unit
PO Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

CNA Certification Renewal

Your nursing assistant certification is valid for twenty-four months. A few months before your certification expires, you will receive a renewal form. The form will need to be completed and returned to the address provided.  In order to renew your certification, you will need to work for compensation as a nursing assistant for a minimum of 8 hours within the last 24 month certification period. Your employer will need to complete some of the form to verify you have worked as a nursing assistant during the last two years. If you are employed in a long-term care facility, you will be required to take 12 hours of in-service provided by your facility.

If you have not worked for at least 8 hours during the 24 month certification period, you will not be able to renew your certification and you will become considered inactive.

Free nurse aide training in Missouri and CNA classes in Missouri