How to Become a Certified Caregiver in Arizona
More than 7.3 million people live in Arizona, and of that number, nearly 19% are age 65 or older and 9% are under age 65 and have a disability. That’s a great deal of residents who might need assistance, which is one reason you may want to learn how to become a certified caregiver in Arizona.
Caregiver tends to be an umbrella term that can refer to different jobs depending on what state you’re in, and this can also affect the job’s requirements. To receive caregiver certification in Arizona, you must successfully complete all requirements from an approved training program.
Job Duties of a Certified Caregiver in Arizona
As a certified caregiver in Arizona, your responsibilities may include assisting an individual with activities of daily living (bathing, grooming, dressing, using the bathroom), preparing meals, light housekeeping, and limited medication administration. In addition, you’ll be providing emotional support and companionship. Patience, good communication, and empathy are important skills that you’ll use every single day.
Requirements to Become a Certified Caregiver in Arizona
In order to work as a certified caregiver in Arizona, there are certain requirements. You must complete a course that’s been approved by the Arizona Board of Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted Living Managers (NCIA). The classes provide you with the education needed to care for people properly and safely.
As you research options for Arizona caregiver certification online, you’ll learn that though course length and format can vary by provider, it’s commonly a minimum of 62 hours in length and comprises lectures — which can be online or in classrooms — and in-person skill building. The price of the course plus additional costs is typically around $700.
In addition to course completion, people wishing to learn how to become a certified caregiver in Arizona must clear a background check and have:
- Government-issued ID
- Arizona Food Handlers Card*
- Social security card
- AZ level 1 fingerprint clearance card
- CPR and First Aid certification*
- Negative TB test
*May be included as part of the course curriculum, depending on the provider.
There may be other requirements depending on the agency or facility that employs you, so be sure to read job ads thoroughly.
Note: If you’re currently a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in Arizona, you can complete a bridge program that would enable you to also work as a certified caregiver in the state.
Certified Caregiver Salary in Arizona
The median certified caregiver salary in Arizona is around $35,600 per year and can range from around $32,000 to $39,500. Your salary can be impacted by a number of things, such as your level of experience, the city in which you work, and the facility that employs you.
Curious about what the next step in your career might be? Consider pursuing education to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN).
Find Fulfilling Work Today
Now that you’ve learned how to become a certified caregiver in Arizona, do you need help looking for work? Search for certified caregiver jobs in Arizona right here on IntelyCare to find the one that fits your needs.