Certification programs are available through organizations and colleges. While different levels of training are available, most training includes instruction on safety, hygiene and nutrition.
The National Association for Home Care (NAHC) requires aides to complete their training (75 hours), have a skills assessment, and take a written test in order to receive a certification.
The National Board for Certification of Hospice and Palliative Nurses (NBCHPN) specializes in awarding four-year certifications to experienced advanced practice, vocational and registered nurses and nursing assistants. Nurses must pass an exam to obtain a NBCHPN certification.
The Institute for Professional Care Education offers an online certification, which includes 40 hours of training on subjects like first aid, infection control and vital signs, along with an optional eight-hour in-person training session on care giving skills.
While aides may be able to increase their job opportunities by becoming certified, many of them are able to begin their careers with little or no formal training.