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How to become a CNA as a 17 year old in dallas tx?

im a 17 year old girl who wants to become a neonatal nurse practitioner, and to start my career i want to enter the medical field and get my hands on experience asap.

Thank you comment icon Can you volunteer at the hospital you would like to work, then go to CNA school, and then apply for a job at said hospital? Elyse Crotty

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Karin’s Answer

Hi Clarissa,

It's a good idea to start getting practical experience in the health sector early. To become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in Texas, you need to complete a training program (60 hours theory, 40 hours clinical) with a licensed training provider and pass a certification exam.

You find accredited providers here: https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/NF/credentialing/NATCEP/credtraining.cfm

You then apply on TULIP for your test, schedule your test and pass it: https://txhhs.my.site.com/TULIP/s/login/

Many training providers have a minimum age of 18, but some accept students as young as 16. One example is the Dallas Career Institute: https://cnaclassesindallas.com/dallas-career-institute/

I hope this helps! All the best to you!

KP

Karin recommends the following next steps:

https://www.hhs.texas.gov/business/licensing-credentialing-regulation/long-term-care-credentialing/nurse-aide-registry/become-a-certified-nurse-aide-texas
https://cnaclassesindallas.com/
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Nicole’s Answer

Hello,
Are you in a school with a health science department? Teachers may be able to help you locate a CNA program that will work for you. Check to see what age you have to be to enter a CNA program in your area.

Volunteering maybe an option also. Not sure if that’s available in your area.
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Susana Abena’s Answer

Hello Clarissa, thank your question.
Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) at 17 in Dallas, Texas, is a commendable step toward your goal of becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner. Gaining hands-on healthcare experience early on will provide invaluable insights into patient care and the medical field.

Steps to Becoming a CNA at 17 in Texas
Verify Age and Educational Requirements

You must be at least 16 years old to enroll in a CNA program in Texas.

While a high school diploma is not mandated by the state, many training programs and employers prefer candidates with a diploma or equivalent.
h2hhealth.com
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legacycareerinstitute.com
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indeed.com

Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program

Enroll in a Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

These programs typically consist of 100 hours: 60 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical hands-on training.
registerednursing.org
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hhs.texas.gov
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Pass the State Competency Exam

After completing the training, you must pass a written and skills competency exam administered by Prometric.

The exam assesses your knowledge and practical skills in patient care.
registerednursing.org

Pass a Criminal Background Check

A clean criminal background is required to be listed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.

Certain convictions may disqualify you from certification.
legacycareerinstitute.com
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registerednursing.org
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alvincollege.edu
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indeed.com

Maintain Certification

To keep your certification active, you must work as a CNA for at least 24 hours every two years and complete 24 hours of continuing education.
nursinghome411.org

CNA Training Options in Dallas for 17-Year-Olds
Here are some training programs in Dallas that accept applicants as young as 16:

Legacy Career Institute
North Richland Hills, TX
Offers a state-approved CNA program with flexible scheduling and job placement assistance. Students aged 16-18 can enroll with parental consent. 
legacycareerinstitute.com
Dallas College Continuing Education
Dallas, TX
Provides a comprehensive CNA program that includes classroom and clinical training, preparing students for the state exam. 
dallascollege.edu
Heart to Heart Healthcare Training
Lewisville, TX
Offers both traditional and online CNA training options, including hands-on clinical experience. 
h2hhealth.com
Collin College
McKinney, TX
Provides a CNA program with classroom instruction followed by clinical training at a licensed facility. 
collin.edu
Tips for Success
Research Program Requirements: Each training program may have specific prerequisites, such as immunization records and CPR certification. Ensure you meet these before applying.

Prepare for the Exam: Utilize study guides and practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and content.

Gain Experience: Consider volunteering or shadowing healthcare professionals to gain exposure to the medical environment.

Network: Connect with professionals in the field through internships or job fairs to build relationships and learn about potential job opportunities.

Embarking on the path to becoming a CNA at 17 is a proactive and commendable decision. It will provide you with essential experience and insights into patient care, laying a strong foundation for your future career as a neonatal nurse practitioner
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