Reading Skills for Healthcare Workers

Daniel is ready to apply for his first nursing assistant position.   He finished all of the necessary steps needed to get on the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry before applying for a job.  He passed an approved Nursing Assistant Training Program. The eight-week program had 75 hours of CNA education and 16 hours of hands-on training.  While in the program, Daniel also received his CPR certificate.

After Daniel finished the CNA training, he took a National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) test online and passed.  Once he passed the NNAAP, his name was added to the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry by the Minnesota Department of Health.  The registry is a way for employers to check on credentials.  Daniel knows that in order to stay on the state registry, he must work for at least eight hours as a paid nursing assistant every 24 months.

Daniel looked for CNA jobs close to his home.  He applied online with the information on his résumé. He also attached the résumé to the online application.  

Daniel used other interview advice his counselor recommended during Daniel’s training program, which included that he bring a copy of his CPR certificate and résumé to the interview.  He also remembered to arrive 10 minutes early.  During the interview, Daniel highlighted his strengths and skills and was able to give examples for each.

Daniel felt positive with his interview and followed up with a thank you note the next day.