Deciding to become a home health aide is a wonderful decision. You should take the certification and training requirements into consideration before determining if this is the career path for you. There are several home health aide schools and training programs available. Each school may differ slightly. You should compare schools and speak to individuals currently working as home health aides to make the best decision. Inquire about job prospects and accreditation as well.
Certification Requirements for a Home Health Aide
Home health aide certification requirements vary according to sate. You can do more specific research for your state by speaking to an admissions representative of a local school about their training program. Home health aides are medical professionals and require some basic and essential medical training to care for patients. As a home health aide you may receive training from a Registered Nurse or other health care professional. Depending on your state, you can receive your home health aide certification online or through a local home health aide school or community college. The National Association for Home Care and Hospice may also be an important resource when considering your state’s requirements. Their website features information about educational requirements and general information about home health aides you may wish to look at as well.
Attaining a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license may be required to become a home health aide. Home health aide schools are also available in some areas and may help with job placement upon completion of the program. If you do not live near a home health aide school, you may wish to obtain your home health aide certification online. Please note that clinical experience is required for receiving a home health aide certificate and is also a part of online programs. Generally 75 hours of in-class training is needed in addition to clinical work. General topics covered in home health aide courses may include:
- Maintaining patient care and hygiene.
- Controlling infections
- Monitoring heart rate and breathing (vital signs)
- Coping with death and hospice
- Providing various care including social, emotional support, and spiritual support
Obtaining a home health aide certification may also require getting additional training such as CPR. Some programs provide both CNA and HHA certifications while others may only offer one or the other. It is important to check your individual state’s requirements to make sure you have the proper information.
Things To Consider
Costs may vary depending on your area and the school you attend. Considering the typical duties of a home health aide will also help you determine is this is the right career path for you (see a job description for Home Health Aides here). Home health aides typically have long days, often stand on their feet, and have to use their physical strength. The rewarding parts of being a home health aide include being a companion to patients in need and ensuring the health and safety of the individuals you are taking care of. Three to twelve weeks is the standard time it takes to receive a CNA certificate.