Technology in CNA Training: Utilizing Online Tools and Resources

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the country needs nearly 65,000 new CNAs between now and 2033. Adding new CNAs to the current healthcare staffing is pivotal to the success of skilled nursing facilities that want to provide quality care with positive patient outcomes. While technological advancements are gaining rapid traction in the healthcare and nursing education industries, nurse aide training hasn’t seen the same growth and innovation, even though it’s instrumental in providing a positive learning experience for new nurse aides. 

Technology, specifically online tools and resources, is revolutionizing CNA training by enhancing flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and the overall learning experience. Some technologies and programs can further improve your healthcare staffing and turnover rates for CNAs. Let’s explore the latest technological resources and innovations you can incorporate into your nurse aide training program to enhance your students' interactive learning experience. 

Prioritizing Online Training Curriculum

Online CNA classes have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many states allow online theory combined with in-person lab and clinical experiences. Let’s review some of the top benefits online learning provides. 

• Cost-effectiveness - Online learning is often cheaper for the training provider to operationalize. Less nurse instructor hours during the didactic portion of the training program may mean you can lower the fees paid by students in online CNA classes. 
• Resources - Many online platforms offer interactive learning features such as discussion boards, reflective posts, short videos, and knowledge checks. You can also easily send mass messages to all learners and answer questions from those struggling with specific topics in the online CNA classes.
• Innovative—Offering online learning is innovative in itself. However, some programs, such as ReadyCNA, embrace innovation in new ways by providing a multi-media platform with robust features. This curriculum also uses storytelling to give students an insider’s view of working with residents and the healthcare team. 
• Flexibility & Speed - It’s no secret that life is busy, and finding time to sit in a classroom can be a significant barrier to learning for some students. Online learning allows students to work at their own pace when it works best for them, fitting the program into their busy lives. Using online learning methodologies can also decrease the length of the overall program, allowing you to graduate more students each year.
• Convenience - An online learning experience allows students to access their education classes and other resources from anywhere with only an internet connection. This approach makes learning the necessary information for certification easy and accessible. 

Embracing Technology

The role of technology in nursing education has increased significantly in recent years. 

Technology is a fantastic way to increase the interactive learning experience for nurse aide students and boost their retention of materials presented in the course. A few technologies to consider for your training program include: 

• Virtual Reality—Virtual reality's power is that it immerses students in various realistic patient care scenarios. Students can practice their technical and social skills in a controlled learning environment before trying new techniques with care recipients. 
• Simulation - Your practice lab is the perfect place to dive into the world of simulation. You can choose from standard manikins for skills like perineal care and positioning. Or, you can select more advanced technologies that provide real-time feedback when students learn and practice new technical and social skills. 

Choosing the Right Tools and Resources

Deciding to incorporate new technologies into your CNA program to make it consistent with modern nursing education standards can feel like a big lift. However, following these four steps will help you weigh your options and operationalize a plan without a hitch. 

Step 1: Evaluate Your Program’s Goals and Needs

Adding technology because it seems like the right thing to do will probably not work. Instead, create a list considering your program's goals and needs for the next year or two. This exercise will help you understand the learning experience you want to offer. 

Step 2: Match Technologies to Your Goals

Now that you’re clear about the areas you want to focus on, start researching different technological tools and resources and match them to your goals. Be sure to focus on what you and your students need, not just the bells and whistles some products offer. 

Step 3: Compare Tools and Resources

Once you completely understand the available options, compare each tool. List features, pricing, and other considerations in a spreadsheet or other document so you can make an informed decision that will enhance your students' interactive learning experience. 

Step 4: Choose Your Product and Implement

Choosing new program resources can be fun. Consider how you’ll introduce the latest features to students and gather feedback to ensure this new part of your program helps them in class and on their certification exam. 

The Future of Technology in CNA Training

The demand for skilled CNAs is apparent, and the opportunity to innovate in their training is now. By embracing technology, particularly robust online platforms and immersive tools like VR and simulation, you can not only meet this demand but also elevate the quality of care delivered in your communities. Don't let your program fall behind. Take the first step today: evaluate your current training, identify areas for technological integration, and empower the next generation of CNAs to thrive. The future of CNA training is here, and it's powered by innovation.