How you'll help
Nursing assistants support patients with essential daily care in medical, residential, or in home settings.
- Personal care – Assists with bathing, dressing, grooming, and hygiene
- Mobility and meals – Helping patients move safely and eat comfortably
- Health monitoring – Tracks vitals signs and patient health and reports changes
I feel honored and blessed to have the career I have. I truly love caring for others.
Where you'll work
Nursing assistants provide care in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
- Skilled nursing facilities where you provide 24/7 medical and personal care.
- Hospitals where you care for patients in a medical setting.
- Assisted living facilities where you support residents in a larger community environment.
- Adult family homes supporting 2-8 residents in a small home setting.
- Private homes where you help individuals live independently in their own space.
The average wage for a nursing assistant certified is $18.90 - $23.55 per hour in Washington State, 15% higher than national average. Salary figures vary based on the employer, location, and years of experience.
This role might be right for you if...
You’re calm under pressure, detail-oriented, and want to support people in medical settings. You’re a team player who’s ready to make hands-on care part of your daily work.
How to become a nursing assistant certified
Build your skills
To work as a nursing assistant certified, you will need to complete training approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing. Find an approved training program near you by visiting the Nursing Assistant Training Programs webpage.
To learn more about the different types of nursing assistant training programs in Washington State, check out Types of Nursing Assistant Training Programs webpage.
Step into your role
To work as a nursing assistant certified, you will need to pass an exam and get certified through the Washington State Department of Health.
Learn details about the exam, including costs and eligibility, by visiting the Nursing Assistant Certification Exam webpage.
Explore additional nursing assistant certification requirements and submit your application through DOH’s Nursing Assistant webpage.
Discover job opportunities
You can find a nursing assistant certified job in your area by:
- Searching online job websites using terms such as “nursing assistant,” “CNA,” or “caregiver.”
- Reaching out directly to the type of employer you’re interested in, whether that’s a home care agency, Consumer Direct WA, adult family home, assisted living facility, skilled nursing facility, or hospital.
- Contacting your Navigator to get personalized help on how to find job openings in your area that may be a good fit for you.
Stay certified to keep making a difference
After you get your nursing assistant certified certification, you will need to renew it every year to maintain your license. For information on renewing you license, check out the Department of Health’s License Renewals webpage.
Already a Home Care Aide?
Fast track your nursing assistant certified through the bridge program.
Step 1 - You are here
Home care assistant certification
Step 2
Nursing assistant certified bridge program
- 20-40 hours of training
Step 3
Take and pass the nursing assistant certified certification exam
Step 4
Start working as a nursing assistant certified
Common questions
- Is a nursing assistant the same as an CNA?
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Yes! In Washington when you get your certification you are considered a nursing assistant-certified or NAC.
- How do I renew my nursing assistant certified certification?
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To renew your NAC certification in Washington, you must:
- Submit your renewal application every year through the Department of Health
- Have worked at least 8 hours in a paid nursing-related role within the last 24 months
- Keep your background check current
- While continuing education isn’t always required for NACs in WA, some employers may ask for it — so check with your workplace.
- Who offers nursing assistant training?
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Nursing assistant training programs are offered through various providers. These include private vocational schools, community colleges, nursing homes, and high schools. Find an approved nursing assistant training program near you.