How to Become a CNA in Alaska – A Complete 2023 Guide

Want to become a certified nursing assistant in Alaska but don’t know where to start? 

Look no further.

We’re here to give you an updated and complete guide on how to become a CNA in Alaska. 

In this guide, we’ll first list all the steps, then dive into the details of each step. 

So without further ado, let’s get started!

How to Become a CNA in Alaska in 5 Steps

Here are the 5 steps to becoming a CNA in Alaska: 

1. Complete a 140-hour state-approved CNA course 
2. Submit verification of the nurse aide training
3. Take a background check
4. Send your CNA application
5. Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program examination

Even if there are just 5 steps, you might get lost in all the requirements. So to help you even further, we’ll be talking about each step in detail. 

Step 1: Complete a 140-Hour State-Approved CNA Course 

Every nurse, regardless of type and level, is required to undergo some sort of training. For aspiring CNAs in Alaska, that means 140 hours of state-approved certified nurse aide training. 

The program should have a minimum of 60 hours of classroom instruction and 80 hours of skills training. 

Now, because a CNA doesn’t often handle complex and heavy responsibilities, the training program is not as comprehensive or rigorous. The curriculum mostly focuses on basic medical training, terms, and ethical practices. 

Nurse aide training programs are offered in schools, hospitals, and other educational institutions. If you find one that is near your place, always make sure that it is state-approved before enrolling. 

Step 2: Submit Verification of the Nurse Aide Training

Once you complete the nurse aide training, you must submit proof to the Nurse Aide Registry that you completed the course. 

To do this, you need to fill up the Verification of Nurse Aide Training form. But instead of submitting this to the Nurse Aide Registry of Alaska, you need to send it to the school where you took your nurse aide training. 

Your school will then complete the other fields found on the form and include your transcripts. They will be the ones to send the completed form to the Nurse Aide Registry. 

Step 3: Take a Background Check

After filling up the verification form and sending it to your school, you can now do the background check. 

The background check requires the use of an 8” x 8” card called the FD-258. Follow these steps to accomplish this: 

1. Log in to the myAlaska portal (you can easily create an account if you don’t have one)
2. Print the fingerprint card found in the portal
3. Fill up the card
4. When sending the application form (found in Step 4) include the completed filled-up fingerprint card
5. Once submitted to the Nurse Aide Registry, the fingerprint card will be sent to the FBI for background checking

To avoid problems or rejections on the fingerprint card, make sure you print the right form and fill up all the required fields. 

Step 4: Send Your CNA Application

To complete your application for a CNA certificate, you need to fill up the Certified Nurse Aide Application by Examination form.

Fill up all the parts of the form, including the Professional Fitness Questions. If there are any questions that you answer ‘yes’ to, you need to submit additional documentation and a Letter of Explanation. 

Make sure to also print the Notarization Signatory Page (in the form) and attach it to your application. 

You will also have to attach a filled-out Credit Card Payment Form (again, this is found in the form) as payment for the application and exam. 

Here’s a breakdown of the fees:

• Application fee – $100
• Certificate fee – $100
• Fingerprint processing fee – $75
• Exam fee – $55 

After that, send everything to this address:

Nurse Aide Registry

550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1500, 

Anchorage, AK 99501

Step 5: Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program Examination

Last but not least is the exam. Even CNAs need to assess whether they are or are not ready to become a certified nurse aide. 

After sending your application, wait for around 2 weeks before getting updates. If your application is approved, you are allowed to schedule an exam. 

Your approval will also tell you where and when you can take the exam. Make sure to follow the instructions given to you. 

From there, you need to pass the 2-part exam. One part is a written test, while the other is a skills test. 

If you pass, you will become a Certified Nurse Assistant in Alaska. 

Congrats!

If you fail the exam, you’re allowed to retake it. However, you need to reschedule and pay the exam fee again. 

FAQs

Got some questions about CNAs in Alaska? Then let’s answer some of the most frequently asked ones. 

How long does it take to become a CNA in Alaska?

It takes around 8-12 weeks to become a CNA in Alaska. This period already covers the 4-6 weeks of training and the application process that follows after. 

Can I apply for a CNA online in Alaska?

You can take CNA classes online, but you still have to take the written and oral exams in person. There are also training programs that require you to take their skills subjects in person. 

What do CNA classes include?

CNA classes include basic care procedures and practice, patient rights, ethical and moral concepts, medical terminology, and other documentation practices. 

Compared to other nursing education programs, CNA programs are much more compressed. 

Conclusion

To summarize, these are the steps to becoming a CNA in Alaska:

• Complete a nurse aide training program
• Submit verification of the nurse aide training
• Take a background check
• Apply for your CNA certificate 
• Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam 

And that is how to become a CNA in Alaska. 

Sure, the steps aren’t as long and complicated as other nursing licenses, but it still requires time and effort. 

So make sure you go through each step one by one. 

Soon enough, you’ll have your CNA certificate. 

Good luck!