Most CNA programs, such as the ones offered at AVTEC: Alaska's Institute of Technology and Health Career Institute in Louisiana, require that students have either a high school diploma or GED prior to acceptance into their program. As a prospective student, you may also be required to pass exams given by nurse assistant programs that test your skills in mathematics and reading.
Nurse assistants perform a lot of physical labor during their shifts, such as lifting and moving patients. Nurse assistant programs, such as the one at South Seattle Community College, require that students be able to lift up to 70 pounds, be able to walk and stand for eight hours, and have full use of fingers and hands. The ability to bend, pull, reach and push is also required of students interested in training to be nurse assistants. Having good vision and hearing are also a requirement for some programs.
Nurse assistant students must be able to communicate effectively with other people. They are required to build and maintain professional relationships with peers, co-workers, patients and a patient's family. It is also required that prospective students be able to follow verbal and written directions given by instructors and nurse supervisors.
Nurse assistant programs require that students complete a background check prior to acceptance. This prevents students with a criminal background from entering the program. Students should also be able to provide the school with photo IDs and fingerprint cards.
A physical exam is also requested of students by nurse assistant programs, in order to prove that students are healthy and capable of attending and completing the program. Immunizations, such as a TB test, a Hepatitis B shot and a Measles shot, are required to prevent the spread of illness from patients to nurses.