CNA Recertification in Illinois: Don't Let Your Skills Gather Dust (Unless They're, You Know, Actually Dusting Skills)
So, you've been a CNA in Illinois, a true champion of compassionate care. But time, that relentless foe, has whooshed by, and here you are wondering how to get that CNA certification shiny and active again. Fear not, fellow caregiver extraordinaire! Recertification is within your grasp, and it's not brain surgery (though let's face it, you've probably seen enough of that to know it's no walk in the park).
How To Get Recertified As A Cna In Illinois |
First Things First: Is Your Certification Just Sleepy or Actually Expired?
There's a difference between an inactive and an expired certification. Expired means you haven't practiced for more than 24 months, and you'll need to take a more rigorous route to get back in the game. Inactive just means it's been gathering dust for a bit, but the path to recertification is a breeze.
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Bold Text Alert! If yours is expired, don't despair! This post will cover both scenarios.
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The Recertification Recharge Station: Because Superpowers Need a Top-Up Sometimes
Now, for the good stuff! Here's how to get that CNA certification back in fighting fit shape:
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The Inactive Lounge (For the Gently Sleepy Certifications):
- Step 1: Fill Out the Online Recertification Form. This is the digital equivalent of raising your hand in class. You can find it on the Illinois Nurse Aide Testing website (search for "Illinois Nurse Aide Testing Recertification").
- Step 2: Follow Up With a Phone Call. Consider it roll call! Call the number listed on the form to finalize your request.
- Step 3: Pass the Written Competency Exam. Time to dust off those study skills! Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIU-C) offers a practice exam and study guide on their testing website ([resources available elsewhere]).
- Step 4: Celebrate! You're officially recertified and ready to roll (or, more likely, assist someone who needs to roll).
The Reactivation Boot Camp (For the Deeply Dormant Certifications):
- Step 1: The Force Awakens (The Manual Skills Test). You'll need an Illinois-approved evaluator to witness your mastery of essential CNA skills. Contact the registry to find one in your area.
- Step 2: Written Competency Exam: Round Two! Same as the inactive route, brush up on those CNA knowledge muscles and conquer the exam.
- Step 3: High Five Yourself! You've brought your CNA skills back from the brink!
FAQ: Your CNA Recertification Help Desk (Because Even Superheroes Need Help Sometimes)
- How to Find an Illinois-Approved Evaluator? Contact the Illinois Nurse Aide Testing program for a list.
- How Long is My Recertification Valid? Two years! Mark your calendar for another recertification adventure.
- Can I Work as a CNA While Recertifying? Not if your certification is expired. For inactive certifications, check with your employer.
- What Happens if I Fail the Written Exam? Three strikes and you're not out, but you will need to take another Illinois-approved CNA training program before retesting.
- Is There a CNA Recertification Fairy Godmother? Sadly, no. But with these steps, you can become your own recertification champion!
So there you have it! Recertification doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little preparation and this guide as your sidekick, you'll be back to providing top-notch care in no time. Now go forth and conquer those recertification challenges!
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