You’ve finally decided to become a CNA in Wyoming and can’t wait to start your journey in healthcare, but before you get your license, you will undergo a long period of preparation.
In Wyoming, the process takes longer than in other states because of the mandated criminal background check that may last up to 60 days. Yup. You heard it right: 60 days.
On top of that, there are so many tests and documents you will need to complete.
Before you get overwhelmed and discouraged to start, we’ve prepared a simple guide on how to become a CNA in Wyoming.
Ready to begin?
Let’s get to it!
How to Become a CNA in Wyoming: Easy 4-Step Guide
Step #1: Enroll in a Wyoming-Approved Program
Step #2: Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Examination
Step #3: Get a Criminal Background Check
Step #4: Apply for Certification
Step #1: Enroll in a Wyoming-Approved Program
In Wyoming, you are required to undergo 85 hours of training through a state-approved program. 70 hours will be dedicated to classroom education, while the remaining 15 are for your clinical training.
CNA programs have varying lengths, depending on where you apply. For example, if you enter county education centers, you will have longer course periods as their curriculum has a blend of high school and college topics. But wherever you’ll go, you can finish your coursework in around 4 to 8 weeks.
Programs can amount from $500 to $1,000 without books and materials included. Check out the list of approved programs on this page. If you want to find lower-cost options, try applying to healthcare clinics that can pay for your training, provided that you render your services to them after certification.
Once you’ve completed the training program, it’s time to prepare for the examination.
Step #2: Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Examination
Once you’ve finished the program and are ready to take the exam, you can take the NNAAP examination through Pearson VUE and the American Red Cross.
You have to apply for an examination permit and schedule it on Pearson VUE’s website. Soon after, your form will be sent over to the American Red Cross.
If you are approved to take the examination, you will be sent a confirmation letter with your exam schedule. Exams are usually scheduled 2 days after receiving the Red Cross’ notification.
In case you are not available on your designated schedule, you will need to call at least 2 business days to request another time slot.
The NNAAP exam has 2 kinds of tests involved. The first part is a 60-item multiple choice test you can take in written or oral form either in English or Spanish. You will be given 90 minutes to take this test. If you choose to take it orally, you will be provided English reading comprehension questions at the end.
The second part involves a skills demonstration test. You will be evaluated whether you are ready to perform nursing assistant duties. You will be asked to demonstrate critical skills, including hand washing and indirect care.
If you pass both tests, then you can proceed to the application process.
What should I do if I don’t pass on my first try?
If you don’t pass on your first try, then you can do a retake up to five 5 times within a year of your program completion.
Since you’ll be taking the tests again, you also have to pay the testing fees.
Step #3: Get a Criminal Background Check
Wyoming requires a criminal background check before you apply for certification.
And what type of check, you may ask?
Candidates need to submit their fingerprints made on blue FBI cards to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
Since the background check takes up to 60 days, many students usually send it long before their examination to avoid delays. Once you get the results, include this in submission for certification applications.
If you still don’t have the results, the Board accepts applications without them. The Board can insert the results to your application if it arrives to them during their screening.
Step #4: Apply for Certifications
The next and final step is applying for your certification.
The certification form has multiple questions regarding personal and health information.
If you happen to answer “yes” to any of the questions, you will need to write a personal statement together with supporting documents from the court or your physician. If you fail to include these, the Board has grounds to reject your application.
The application process costs $120: $60 for the application itself and $60 for the criminal background check. All documents should be submitted to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing in Cheyenne.
Now, you need to wait up to 14 business days to get feedback.
The state doesn’t issue paper certificates, so you will need to check your state online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wyoming accept reciprocity?
Yes, it does! You can use your active certification from another state as long as you meet the competency requirements.
These include:
- Previous records that you have worked as a CNA in the past 24 months
- Completion of 24 hours of in-service education during the past 24 months
You will not need to take additional training and examinations too, as long as the 2 requirements above are checked!
How much does a CNA earn in Wyoming?
In Wyoming, CNAs earn an average of $33,160 yearly. This is actually quite high versus most states in the country.
Conclusion
Verus other states, Wyoming requires a longer time to process CNA applications. You need to consider the timing of your application and certification, and you must take your preparation seriously.
To make the process easier and faster, you can refer to this guide for the list of requirements and documents you need to accomplish. So, now that you have the information, you’re ready to begin!