CNA Classes and CNA Training Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii (HI)

When most people think of Hawaii, they imagine volcanic sand beaches, swaying palm trees and pristine ocean waters. However, the state is also home to a burgeoning medical industry. While it’s not quite as robust as what you’ll find in many areas on the mainland, there are plenty of career options for those interested in becoming a trained medical professional. Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant is an excellent choice, and can offer plenty of advancement opportunities and other benefits. To take advantage of them, however, you’ll first need to register for CNA classes in Honolulu.

Finding Information about CNA Jobs in Honolulu

The first thing you need to do is determine if this is the right career path for you. A look at the job information for CNAs in the city can help you make that determination. You’ll find that while there are other resources available, the Honolulu Simply Hired page is an excellent source of data. You can learn many things here, including what employers have open positions (now and on a regular basis), what the average pay rate is for various Certified Nursing Assistant positions, what CNA Training and experience requirements different employers have and quite a bit more.

Beyond these online classifieds, you can find job information and assistance through other avenues. For example, there are quite a few staffing agencies in the city that specialize in connecting medical facilities with trained CNAs and other professionals. The following agencies can help you learn more about your employment options:

• ALTRES Staffing (Kapiolani Boulevard)
• Meridian Medical Staffing

Licensing and CNA Programs in Hawaii

Hawaii mandates that individuals undergo training programs beyond what the US federal government requires. You will need to complete state-approved CNA classes that spans a minimum of 100 hours, and that must include at least 30 hours of clinical training. There are CNA classes in Honolulu with longer durations available as well (and these can offer a more in-depth education).

After your CNA training is complete, you will need to take the state’s licensing exam. This was administered by the American Red Cross, but this is no longer the case. The Red Cross no longer handles any testing or recertification (training only). Currently, Prometric is the only authorized agency in the state for test administration.

The test is comprised of two parts – one is a multiple choice section and the other is a skills demonstration. The state requires that those failing the exam (either part) must wait a full 30 days before retaking the exam. The skills test must be passed first, before you can complete the written portion of the test.

Key Courses in Honolulu

Finding the right training programs in Honolulu is imperative. Not all Classes are approved by the state, and you cannot afford to take chances with your education. The following programs can offer an excellent education:

• The American Red Cross – While the Red Cross no longer administers testing of any type, they do still provide schooling for those interested in becoming CNAs. The course covers 130 hours of training, and can be taken either in person or online (distance education is more expensive).
• KAPI’OLANI Community College – The college offers an accredited program that runs 150 hours and trains individuals to become employed in long-term care facilities. These classes have almost a 100% pass rate.

Key Employers in the City

After securing your education, you’ll need to make sure that you can find work. While there are positions available with a range of medical centers in the city, you’ll find that they’re not all created equal. The following medical facilities are some of the top options available:

• Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
• Urgent Care Clinic
• Kuakini Health System
• Straub Clinic and Hospital (part of Hawaii Pacific Health)
• The Queen’s Medical Center
• KAPI’OLANI Medical Center

Salary Information in Honolulu

While workers in Honolulu can earn competitive pay, the average for the city is considerably lower than what you will find in most mainland cities. The median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Honolulu, HI is $33,650, as of August 18, 2020, with a range usually between $27,957-$40,337 (Salary.com).

Key Skills Learned in CNA Training

During your training, you’ll learn core skills necessary to provide patient care. These skills can include the following:

• Wound care techniques
• Care of existing stomas
• Catheterization techniques and care requirements
• How to care for patients with respiratory diseases
• Assisting with restraints, protective devices and various monitoring systems

The most important thing is to remember that each patient deserves a caring attitude and that you are part of a team of professionals.