CNA & Medical Assistant starter tool kit
Healthcare programs require specific scrubs and basic clinical gear, plus a background check, immunizations and often CPR/BLS certification. Estimated total if you buy everything: $170–$432 (typical estimate).
Check your program's own list first. Schools publish a required tool and uniform list, and many include tools or kits in tuition or offer student discounts. Prices are typical estimates (Oct 2026) and vary by brand, store and region.
| Item | New or used | Typical price |
|---|---|---|
| Scrubs (in your program's color) | Buy new | $20–$40 per set |
| Stethoscope | Either | $25–$100 |
| Manual blood pressure cuff | Buy new | $20–$40 |
| Watch with second hand | Either | $15–$40 |
| Non-slip clinical shoes | Buy new | $50–$120 |
| Penlight | Buy new | $5–$12 |
| Gait belt | Buy new | $10–$20 |
| Pocket organizer / clipboard | Either | $10–$25 |
| CNA or MA exam prep book | Used is fine | $15–$35 |
Buy new vs. used
Buy new: anything that protects you (eye, hand, hearing and head protection, insulated tools, testers) and anything sanitary. Used is fine: basic hand tools like wrenches, squares and pliers from a pawn shop, marketplace or a retiring tradesperson. Your program will tell you the required scrub color and shoe style; don't buy before you get the list.
Ways to pay for tools
Some scholarships and WIOA training accounts can cover required tools. See trade school scholarships and paying for trade school.
Frequently asked questions
How much do cna & medical assistant tools cost for school?
Buying everything on this typical list costs about $170–$432 (estimate). Your program's required list may be shorter, and some schools include a kit in tuition.
Can scholarships pay for trade school tools?
Some can. Several trade scholarships (for example mikeroweWORKS and some association awards) and WIOA training funds can cover required tools and supplies. Check each award's rules.