Your 2025 Guide to Becoming a Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania: Top Programs, Requirements, Exam & Salary Insights

Quick Summary: Eager to start a fulfilling healthcare career in the Keystone State? Becoming a Nurse Aide (often referred to as a CNA) in Pennsylvania is a direct path to making a meaningful difference. This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step: understanding Pennsylvania's specific certification requirements (including required background checks), finding PA Department of Education (PDE)-approved training programs, mastering the Credentia competency exam, and exploring salary expectations across Pennsylvania. We've included real-world scenarios, financial aid information, and crucial tips for career growth and maintaining your active status on the PA Nurse Aide Registry. Whether you're new to healthcare or seeking a new direction, this resource is your foundation for a successful Nurse Aide career in Pennsylvania.

Introduction: Your Path to Becoming a Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to becoming a Nurse Aide in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania! If you're looking for a direct and rewarding entry into the healthcare field, driven by a desire to provide compassionate care, this is an excellent place to start. This guide is specifically tailored for Pennsylvanians, detailing the steps to certification, from understanding the role and meeting requirements set by the PA Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Education (PDE), to finding approved training programs, preparing for the state competency exam administered by Credentia, and exploring career opportunities throughout Pennsylvania. Let's begin your journey into this essential profession.

1. What is a Nurse Aide (CNA) in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, the official term is "Nurse Aide." A Nurse Aide is a vital healthcare team member who provides essential direct care to individuals in various settings, under the supervision of licensed nursing staff like Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Nurse Aides focus on residents' or patients' basic needs, ensuring their comfort, safety, and dignity. Key responsibilities often include:

• Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding.
• Taking and accurately recording vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure).
• Helping with mobility, including transferring, ambulating, and repositioning to prevent complications like pressure injuries.
• Observing individuals' conditions and reporting any significant changes to the supervising nurse.
• Providing companionship, emotional support, and promoting resident/patient rights.
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly environment.

The Nurse Aide role requires physical stamina, empathy, strong communication skills, and careful attention to detail. It offers a deeply rewarding experience and serves as a solid foundation for those wishing to advance their careers in nursing or other healthcare fields.

2. Job Outlook & Demand for Nurse Aides in Pennsylvania

The demand for Nurse Aides in Pennsylvania is consistently strong and projected to grow. This is driven by Pennsylvania's significant aging population, leading to increased needs in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady national growth for nursing assistants, and Pennsylvania, with its large population and established healthcare infrastructure, is a key state contributing to this demand.

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry also forecasts robust growth for Nurse Aides. Numerous openings arise annually due to new job creation and the need to replace workers who retire or move to other occupations.

3. Understanding Local Nurse Aide Demand Across Pennsylvania

Nurse Aide job opportunities are widespread throughout Pennsylvania, with concentrations varying by region:

• Major Metropolitan Areas: Philadelphia and its surrounding counties (Southeastern PA), the Pittsburgh metropolitan area (Southwestern PA), and the Lehigh Valley (Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton) have the highest concentration of healthcare facilities and thus, the greatest number of Nurse Aide openings in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), and home care agencies.
• Other Urban Centers: Cities like Harrisburg, Erie, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Lancaster, and York also have significant healthcare sectors with consistent demand for Nurse Aides.
• Rural & Central Pennsylvania: While job volume might be lower than in major urban centers, there's a steady and often critical need for Nurse Aides in smaller community hospitals, nursing homes, and particularly in home health, serving geographically dispersed populations.

Exploring Pennsylvania-specific job boards (like PA CareerLink®) and connecting with local healthcare providers and training programs can offer insights into regional demand.

4. Nurse Aide Salary & Benefits in Pennsylvania

Average Compensation

Salaries for Nurse Aides in Pennsylvania are generally competitive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for May 2023, Nursing Assistants in Pennsylvania earned a mean hourly wage of $18.93, translating to an average annual salary of approximately $39,370.

Wages can vary based on region (e.g., higher in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metro areas compared to some rural areas), years of experience, type of facility (hospitals often pay more than some SNFs), and unionization. Entry-level positions might start in the $15-$17/hour range, while experienced Nurse Aides in high-demand areas or specialized roles can earn more.

Pay by Setting (Typical Pennsylvania Estimates)

Setting	Average Hourly Wage Range (PA)
Hospitals (especially Unionized)	$19.00 – $25.00+
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) / Long-Term Care	$17.00 – $22.00
Home Health Agencies	$16.00 – $21.00 (plus potential mileage)
Assisted Living / Personal Care Homes	$16.50 – $21.50

Note: These are general estimates. Always research specific regions, employers, and union contracts.

Shift Differentials & Overtime

Many Pennsylvania healthcare facilities offer shift differentials (e.g., an extra $1-$3/hour) for evening, night, weekend, or holiday shifts. Overtime pay (typically 1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 40 in a week) can also increase earnings.

Common Benefits Packages

Full-time Nurse Aides in Pennsylvania, particularly in unionized environments or larger institutions, often receive benefits such as:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plans (e.g., 401(k), pension plans)
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage

5. Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Certification Requirements (DOH/PDE)

To become a certified Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania and be listed on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry, you must meet specific requirements primarily set by the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) for registry and competency, and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for training program approval:

• Age & Education: You must be at least 16 years old to enroll in a training program. A high school diploma or GED is generally preferred or required by most training programs and employers.
• Complete a PDE-Approved Training Program: You must successfully complete a Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). For the primary route, this involves at least 80 total hours (this is the state minimum; some programs may offer more), broken down into:
  • A minimum of 37.5 hours of classroom/theory instruction.
  • A minimum of 42.5 hours of supervised clinical training in a healthcare facility (typically a skilled nursing facility).
• Pass the Competency Evaluation Examination: After completing training, you must pass the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Exam. This exam is administered by Credentia and includes both a Written (or Oral) examination and a Skills examination.
• Criminal History Background Checks: While the DOH itself doesn't require specific checks for initial placement on the registry via examination *after training*, Pennsylvania law (including the Older Adults Protective Services Act - OAPSA) mandates that employers in long-term care facilities and other healthcare settings conduct thorough background checks prior to employment. These typically include:
  • Pennsylvania State Police criminal history check (Act 34).
  • Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33/151).
  • FBI fingerprint-based criminal history check (Act 73/114), especially if you have lived outside of PA in the last two years or as required by the facility.
  Most training programs will also require these clearances prior to starting clinical rotations. Certain convictions may prohibit employment and/or participation in training.
• Health Screening: You must have a health examination, including a TB test (PPD skin test or chest X-ray if indicated) and a physical exam, signed by a physician or other approved healthcare provider, verifying you are in good health and can perform Nurse Aide duties. This is usually required before starting clinical training.
• Application for Examination: Your training program instructor or coordinator will typically submit your application and eligibility information to Credentia for exam scheduling.

Always verify the most current requirements with the PA Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry website, the PDE for training program information, and Credentia for exam specifics.

6. Finding PDE-Approved Nurse Aide Training Programs in PA

It is crucial to select a Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) that is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Only graduates of PDE-approved programs are eligible to take the state competency exam and be placed on the PA Nurse Aide Registry. The PDE and DOH websites provide resources for finding approved programs. Common providers in Pennsylvania include:

• Career and Technical Centers (CTCs) / Vocational-Technical Schools: Many county or regional CTCs offer PDE-approved Nurse Aide programs.
• Community Colleges: Several Pennsylvania community colleges offer affordable, PDE-approved Nurse Aide training.
• Private Postsecondary Career Schools: Numerous private career colleges and technical institutes offer Nurse Aide training. Ensure they are PDE-approved and licensed by the State Board of Private Licensed Schools if applicable.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Some nursing homes offer their own PDE-approved NATCEPs. These may be free if you commit to working for the facility, as federal law prohibits approved nursing homes from charging for training provided to their prospective employees.
• Hospitals or Healthcare Systems: Some larger healthcare systems may run approved programs.
• American Red Cross: Some Red Cross chapters in Pennsylvania may offer PDE-approved Nurse Aide training.

When choosing a program in Pennsylvania, consider:

• PDE Approval: Non-negotiable. Verify on the PDE or DOH website.
• Cost & Financial Aid: Inquire about tuition, fees (for background checks, books, uniform, physical exam, state exam), and available aid (PA CareerLink® WIOA funding, scholarships, payment plans).
• Schedule & Duration: Programs range from intensive full-time (e.g., 4-6 weeks for an 80-hour program) to part-time options.
• Location & Clinical Sites: Factor in commute times.
• State Exam Pass Rates: Ask the program about their graduates' success on the Credentia exam.
• Job Placement Assistance: Some programs offer help with resume writing and job searching.

You can search for approved programs via the PA Department of Education's list of approved NATPs or the DOH Nurse Aide Registry site.

7. What to Expect from Your Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Program Structure & Duration

All Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Programs (NATCEPs) must provide a minimum of 80 total clock hours of instruction and training (though some programs may offer more). This is typically structured as follows:

• Classroom (Didactic) Instruction (minimum 37.5 hours): This portion covers theoretical knowledge essential for providing safe and effective care. Topics generally include:
  • Introduction to the role of the Nurse Aide, healthcare settings, ethics, and resident rights.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Infection control and safety/emergency procedures.
  • Basic anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
  • Personal care skills (hygiene, grooming, bathing, dressing).
  • Nutrition, hydration, and elimination needs.
  • Vital signs measurement and observation skills.
  • Care of residents with common conditions, including cognitive impairments like dementia.
  • Restorative care and promoting independence.
  A specified portion of classroom instruction must be completed before students can participate in direct resident care.
• Supervised Clinical Training (minimum 42.5 hours): This hands-on portion must be conducted in a PDE-approved clinical setting, predominantly a skilled nursing facility (SNF) or other long-term care facility. Students apply their learned skills providing direct care to residents under the close supervision of a PDE-approved instructor (typically an RN or LPN with specific qualifications).

Program Duration (for an 80-hour program):

• Full-Time Programs: Can often be completed in as little as 2-4 weeks, depending on the daily schedule intensity.
• Part-Time Programs (Evenings/Weekends): May take 4-8 weeks or longer to complete.

Regardless of the format, all approved programs are designed to prepare students thoroughly for the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Exam and for competent practice.

8. The Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Exam (Credentia): What You Need to Know

After successfully completing your PDE-approved NATCEP, you must pass the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Examination to be eligible for placement on the PA Nurse Aide Registry. This exam is administered by Credentia. It consists of two parts, both of which must be passed:

1. Written (or Oral) Examination

• Consists of multiple-choice questions (typically 60-75, confirm current number with Credentia's Pennsylvania Candidate Handbook).
• Tests your knowledge on topics covered in your training program, such as resident safety, infection control, resident rights, basic nursing skills, and communication.
• You will have a specific time limit (usually 90 minutes to 2 hours) to complete this examination.
• An oral version (questions read aloud) is available in English if requested in advance during the application process.

2. Skills Examination

• You will be asked to perform five randomly selected nursing assistant skills.
• One of the skills will always be Hand Hygiene. The other four are randomly selected from the official PA skills list (e.g., taking a blood pressure, assisting with bedpan, providing catheter care, ambulation).
• A Nurse Evaluator will observe and score your performance based on critical steps for each skill. You must perform all critical steps correctly to pass a skill.
• You will have a specific time limit (check the Candidate Handbook, typically around 25-35 minutes) to complete all five skills.

Attempts & Retakes: In Pennsylvania, you generally have up to three attempts to pass both parts of the exam within 24 months (two years) from the date you completed your training program. If you fail one part, you only need to retake that part. If you do not pass both parts within the three attempts or the two-year timeframe, you must complete a new PDE-approved NATCEP.

On Exam Day: Arrive on time. You MUST bring two forms of current, valid (not expired), signature-bearing identification. One ID must be a government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport). Both names must match exactly what was submitted on your application. Wear appropriate attire (usually scrubs, flat non-skid enclosed shoes) and a watch with a second hand.

Always refer to the latest Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook from Credentia for the most current exam policies, procedures, skill lists, fees, and testing site information.

9. Getting Certified & Listed on the PA Nurse Aide Registry

Initial Registry Placement

Once you successfully pass both the Written (or Oral) Examination and the Skills Examination administered by Credentia, Credentia will transmit your results to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH). If you have met all requirements, the PA DOH will place your name on the official Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry with an "active" status. No separate certificate is typically mailed by the DOH; your active status on the online registry serves as proof of certification. Employers are required by law to verify your active status on this registry before hiring you as a Nurse Aide. You can check your status online via the PA DOH Nurse Aide Registry search portal.

Maintaining Your Active Status on the Registry: Renewal

Your active status on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry is valid for 24 months (two years) from the date of your last recorded qualifying employment or initial placement.

• Work Requirement: To renew your active status, you must have worked for monetary compensation as a Nurse Aide, performing nursing or nursing-related services, for at least eight (8) consecutive hours OR one (1) full day under the supervision of a licensed nurse within your most recent 24-month registry period.
• No State-Mandated CEUs for Registry Renewal: Pennsylvania DOH does not currently require specific Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for Nurse Aide Registry renewal itself. However, federal regulations require nursing facilities to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education annually to their Nurse Aides. So, if you are employed, you will receive this training.
• Renewal Process: The renewal process is largely tied to your employment. When a nursing facility employs you, they will verify your work hours. If you work the required hours, your registry status can be updated/renewed. If you are not working or working for an agency not directly reporting to the registry, you may need to submit a "Verification of Employment" form (available from the DOH website) completed by your employer to the DOH to ensure your status is renewed.

If you do not meet the work requirement within a 24-month period, your status on the registry will become "inactive" or "expired." To reactivate an expired Pennsylvania Nurse Aide registration, you will generally need to re-apply for and pass both parts of the Credentia competency exam again. If your registration has been expired for more than 24 months, you may be required to complete a new PDE-approved NATCEP.

Out-of-State Nurse Aides: Reciprocity

If you are a Nurse Aide certified in another state and your certification is active and in good standing (no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property), you can apply for placement on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry through "reciprocity." You'll need to complete the "Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Request for Reciprocity Application" (available on the PA DOH website) and submit it with required documentation, including verification from your original state of certification. If your credentials meet Pennsylvania's standards, you may be granted active status on the PA Nurse Aide Registry without retaking the exam. Background checks (as required for PA employment) will still apply.

10. Real Stories: Nurse Aide Journeys in Pennsylvania

Jamal's Start in Philadelphia

Jamal, from West Philadelphia, decided to become a Nurse Aide to gain healthcare experience while considering nursing school. He enrolled in a PDE-approved program at a local community college. He diligently completed his background checks and found the clinical rotations at a city nursing home highly informative. After passing his Credentia exams, Jamal was hired by a large urban hospital. "The program was intense but prepared me well. I’m learning so much and seeing if a nursing career is right for me," he says.

Susan's Career Change in the Lehigh Valley

Susan, from Allentown, sought a more fulfilling career after years in retail. She chose a Nurse Aide program offered by a Career and Technical Center known for its strong job placement. "The instructors were fantastic, especially with preparing us for the skills exam," Susan recalls. She now works at a skilled nursing facility in Bethlehem and enjoys the connections she makes with residents and their families.

Michael's Opportunity in Rural Central Pennsylvania

Michael, from a small town near State College, found a NATCEP offered by a local nursing home. The training was free with a commitment to work there after certification. "It was a great way to get started without a lot of upfront cost," he notes. "Working in a smaller community means you really get to know everyone." He ensures his employer properly verifies his work hours for registry renewal.

11. A Day in the Life of a Pennsylvania Nurse Aide

A typical day for a Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania, whether in a bustling Pittsburgh hospital or a nursing home in Lancaster County, is focused on providing direct, compassionate care:

• Beginning of Shift:
  • Clock in, receive report from the previous shift about resident/patient assignments, current conditions, and specific care instructions.
  • Gather necessary supplies and make initial rounds to greet residents/patients.
• Morning/Daytime Routine:
  • Assist residents/patients with ADLs: bathing, dressing, oral hygiene, grooming, and toileting, always respecting dignity.
  • Serve meal trays, assist with feeding if needed, encourage fluid intake, and accurately record intake and output.
  • Take and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure) as scheduled or indicated.
  • Change bed linens, maintain room tidiness, ensure call bells are accessible, and implement safety measures.
  • Assist with mobility: ambulation, transfers (e.g., bed to chair), range-of-motion exercises, and frequent repositioning to prevent skin breakdown.
• Throughout the Shift:
  • Respond promptly and respectfully to call lights and resident/patient requests.
  • Carefully observe residents/patients for any changes in condition (physical, mental, emotional) and report these immediately to the licensed nurse.
  • Provide emotional support, active listening, and engage in appropriate social interaction.
  • Accurately document all care provided, observations, and any incidents according to facility policy and state regulations.
  • Adhere strictly to infection control protocols (e.g., proper handwashing, use of PPE).
• End of Shift:
  • Ensure residents/patients are comfortable, safe, and their immediate needs are addressed before the next shift.
  • Complete all charting thoroughly and accurately.
  • Provide a comprehensive, factual report to the oncoming Nurse Aide/shift.

Pennsylvania Nurse Aides are crucial members of the healthcare team, requiring diligence, keen observational skills, and a strong commitment to resident-centered care.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Aspiring Pennsylvania Nurse Aides

Are criminal background checks mandatory to become a Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania?

While the PA DOH doesn't directly process background checks for initial registry placement after training and exam, Pennsylvania law (OAPSA and related statutes) mandates that employers in settings like nursing homes conduct Pennsylvania State Police (Act 34), Child Abuse (Acts 33/151), and often FBI fingerprint checks before hiring. Training programs also require these checks for clinical participation. Certain convictions can prohibit employment.

Are Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required to renew my Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry status?

No, the Pennsylvania Department of Health does not mandate specific CEUs for registry renewal itself. Renewal is based on meeting the work requirement (8 consecutive hours or one full day of paid work within 24 months). However, if employed in a nursing facility, federal regulations require at least 12 hours of in-service education annually.

Can I work as a Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania while waiting for my exam results?

After completing a PDE-approved NATCEP, you may work up to 120 days as a “nurse aide trainee” or similar during which you take the exam. You cannot practice as a Certified Nurse Aide until you pass the exam and are active on the PA Nurse Aide Registry. Verify specifics with the DOH and your employer.

What if my Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry status becomes inactive or expired?

If your status lapses because you didn’t meet the work requirement, you cannot work as a Nurse Aide. To reactivate, you must reapply and pass both parts of the Credentia competency exam again. Registrations expired over 24 months may require completing a new PDE-approved NATCEP.

How do I transfer my out-of-state CNA certification to Pennsylvania (reciprocity)?

Apply for reciprocity with the PA Department of Health by submitting the “Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Request for Reciprocity Application,” verification of your active, good-standing out-of-state certification, and meeting Pennsylvania’s requirements. If approved, you may be added to the PA Nurse Aide Registry without re-testing. Employment will still require Pennsylvania background checks.

13. Tips for Success in Your Nurse Aide Training and Career in PA

• Master the Credentia Skills Checklist: Pennsylvania's skill evaluation is precise. Practice every skill according to the official Credentia PA checklist, focusing on all critical steps.
• Understand Background Check Timelines: Initiate any required background checks (for training or employment) as early as possible, as processing times can vary.
• Perfect Attendance is Key: PDE-approved programs have strict attendance policies for the required hours. Be present and engaged.
• Study for the Written/Oral Exam: Use practice questions, review your training materials thoroughly, and understand the core concepts.
• Maintain Professionalism: Punctuality, appropriate attire, respectful communication, and a positive attitude are vital in clinicals and throughout your career.
• Ensure Employment Verification for Renewal: If not working in a facility that automatically updates the registry, be proactive in submitting employment verification to the DOH to maintain active status.
• Stay Informed: Periodically check the PA DOH and Credentia websites for any updates to regulations or procedures.

14. Advancing Your Career: Paths Beyond Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania

Your Pennsylvania Nurse Aide certification is an excellent starting point. Many Nurse Aides in PA advance to other roles:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): A very common next step. LPN programs in Pennsylvania typically take 12-18 months. The PA State Board of Nursing regulates LPNs.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a PA State Board of Nursing-approved program.
• Specialized Roles: With additional training, Nurse Aides can specialize as Restorative Aides, Hospice Aides, or work in specific units like dementia care or rehabilitation.
• Medication Administration Technician (in Personal Care Homes/Assisted Living): Pennsylvania has specific training and competency requirements for individuals administering medications in these settings, which is separate from Nurse Aide certification.
• Healthcare Administration or Education: With experience and further degrees, Nurse Aides can move into management, staff development, or become NATCEP instructors (requires LPN/RN licensure and specific qualifications).

Many Pennsylvania healthcare employers, especially larger hospital systems and unionized facilities, offer tuition assistance programs for employees pursuing further education.

15. Nurse Aide Training Costs & Financial Aid in Pennsylvania

The cost of Nurse Aide training (NATCEP) in Pennsylvania can vary:

Program Type	Typical Tuition Range (PA)	Additional Fees (Background Checks, Books, Uniform, Exam, etc. Estimate)	Common Financial Aid Options
Career and Technical Center (CTC) / Vo-Tech	$700 – $1,500	$150 – $350	PA CareerLink® WIOA funding, local grants, school payment plans.
Pennsylvania Community College	$800 – $1,800	$200 – $400	Pell Grants (if eligible), PA State Grant (PHEAA), WIOA, scholarships.
Private Career School	$1,000 – $2,500+	$250 – $500	School payment plans, WIOA, some scholarships, private loans.
Facility-Based (SNF) Training	Often Free (if offered by an approved nursing facility to prospective employees, by federal law)	Minimal or covered	Employer-sponsored.

Key Pennsylvania Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Tips:

• FAFSA: Complete for federal Pell Grants if attending an eligible college program.
• PA State Grant (PHEAA): For eligible Pennsylvania residents attending approved postsecondary institutions.
• PA CareerLink®: Contact your local PA CareerLink® office for information on WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) training grants and other support services.
• Employer-Sponsored Training: Inquire with local nursing facilities about free NATCEPs for prospective employees. Federal law states that if a nursing home offers the training and you go to work for them, they cannot charge you for any portion of the training. If you are already employed when you start the training, they must pay you for the training time.
• Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR): May provide funding for eligible individuals with disabilities.

Always get a detailed breakdown of ALL costs before enrolling: tuition, background check fees, textbook, uniform, equipment, physical exam/TB test, CPR certification (if required separately), and the Credentia exam fee.

Conclusion: Start Your Nurse Aide Journey in Pennsylvania Today!

Becoming a certified Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania is a significant step towards a stable and rewarding career in the healthcare sector. The Keystone State offers numerous opportunities for compassionate individuals dedicated to providing quality care. By understanding Pennsylvania's specific requirements, choosing a quality PDE-approved training program, successfully navigating the background check process and the Credentia competency exam, and committing to professional conduct, you will be well-prepared for success.

Your journey to making a difference begins with your initiative. Use the resources in this guide to research programs in your area and take that important first step.

Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry, the PA Department of Education (for NATP lists), and the Credentia Pennsylvania Nurse Aide page for official program information, forms, exam details, and to embark on your path. A vital role in Pennsylvania's healthcare system awaits you!

References & Further Reading (Pennsylvania)

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Nursing Assistants and Orderlies" — www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nursing-assistants.htm
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, "May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Pennsylvania - 31-1131 Nursing Assistants" — www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_pa.htm#31-1131
3. Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) - Nurse Aide Registry — www.health.pa.gov/topics/facility/Pages/Nurse-Aide-Registry.aspx
4. Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) - Nurse Aide Training Programs — www.education.pa.gov/Postsecondary-Adult/CollegeCareer/Pages/NurseAideTrainingPrograms.aspx
5. Credentia - Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Examination Program — credentia.com/test-takers/pa (Access Candidate Handbook here)
6. PA CareerLink® (for WIOA and job/training resources) — www.pacareerlink.pa.gov/
7. Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) - Clearances (for Child Abuse & FBI) — www.dhs.pa.gov/providers/Clearances-and-Licensing/Pages/default.aspx
8. Pennsylvania State Police - PATCH (for criminal history check) — epatch.state.pa.us/Home.jsp