South Dakota is experiencing a lack of nurse aides in the state due to federal laws which require a nurse aide be certified in order to work in a medical care facility. This has caused job openings for a certified nurse aide to rise significantly in South Dakota. The medical world is fast paced and will keep you on your toes at all times. If you wish to work as a nurse aide you will need to earn CNA certification in South Dakota in order to qualify for employment

The courses you take must be approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing for you to be eligible to sit for the state licensing examination. After the training, you will need to complete the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Exam and be added to the South Dakota Nurse Aide Registry. The curriculum used for the studies during the CNA training in South Dakota will help to get you ready to pass the state nurse aide exam and also prepare you to efficiently perform skills and tasks that will be necessary while on the job as a nurse aide. For extended details on the curriculum for CNA training in South Dakota, see the aforementioned section.

The state exam can be taken once you have finished your CNA training in South Dakota with a passing grade. The exam is conducted through the D&S Diversified Technologies Headmaster, and preregistration is required. Fees are associated with the exam, so be prepared to dole up some cash out of pocket when you sign up. The examination is given in two parts, and each section must be passed successfully. It is a good idea to show up early on testing day to allow testing administrators to process your ID and any other last minute paperwork. Dress comfortably, as the exam takes a few hours to complete.

The written test is given as a questionnaire containing 75 questions which will need to be answered with a 75% accuracy within the 1.5 hours time limit. When the knowledge test is complete, you will take the skills test in which you will be given all necessary equipment needed to perform each task. There are 5 tasks in total to be completed in which, the first will always be proper hand washing and the rest will be randomly picked by computer. You need a 75% or better on each of the skills for you to get a passing score. If you complete and pass both test parts, you will be added to the South Dakota Nurse Aide Registry and be considered certified in the state to practice your skills and get a job.

The reported median CNA salary in South Dakota is $25,510 and the position holds a 16.8% acceleration rate as predicted by the South Dakota Department of Labor, which will continue to grow over the next 10 years.

For additional Information regarding CNA Certification in South Dakota visit:

South Dakota Nurse Aide Registry
South Dakota Board of Nursing
4305 South Louise Avenue, Suite 201, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Phone: (605) 362-2760
Fax: (605) 362-2768