CNA Training And Becoming A Nurse Aide

If you want to work in a career as a nursing assistant, there are a few steps that you will need to take.  Some healthcare facilities do have opportunities for nursing assistants that do not require CNA certification. However, if you want to work as a certified nursing assistant, you will need to complete a training course and take an examination before you can do so.  Let’s learn more about CNA training and becoming a nursing aide.

In order to be able to sit for a nursing assistant certification exam, you will need to complete an accredited CNA training program.  These programs are sometimes offered at hospitals, rehabilitation centers and continuing care communities.  You can also search for this type of program at a community college or allied health college.  The American Red Cross in your area might also provide CNA training programs.  If you are not sure where to take a nursing assistant training program, you can contact a healthcare facility in your area.  They should be able to point you in the right direction.

During a CNA training program, you will have classroom instruction, demonstrations and labs as well as clinical hands on experience.  You will learn how to protect a patient’s privacy and provide them with care that gives them the compassion, kindness and dignity they deserve.  Your training course will teach you further people skills so that you can effectively communicate with your patients.

Your CNA training will teach you a variety of other skills.  You will learn how to take a patient’s vital sense and how to make notations in their chart.  The training will teach you how to safely roll over a patient who is unable to move on their own.  You will learn how to use lifts and other devices to aid you in the care of a patient.  Your training will teach you how to bathe a patient and how to change a patient who is unable to go to the restroom on their own.  These are just a few of the skills you will learn during your training.

After you have completed your coursework and clinical experience, you will need to take an examination.  You must pass the examination in order to become a certified nursing assistant.  In most cases, you need to have at least an 80% on your test.  The test will include multiple choice questions that will test your knowledge of how to provide the best care for your patients.  You will then have a skills portion of the test where you will need to demonstrate your ability to perform several different duties as a a nursing assistant.

When you pass your examination, you will become a certified nursing assistant.  In order to continue a career as a nursing aide, you will usually need to complete CEU credits and other educational requirements every year or so.  There will be courses you need to take in order to keep your certification valid.  In some cases, your employer will pay for or help you pay for the continued education.

Free CNA Training Through Employment and Training Programs

You have probably read or heard about the shortage of Certified Nursing Assistants in the United States, and are now ready to start your career in this rewarding and challenging field.  How much more interested would you be if I told you that there were ways to receive your training for free?  Well guess what, one of the best ways to receive your training without worrying about big tuition bills is by getting free CNA training classes through employment and training programs already offered by various agencies.

For those who are unemployed or underemployed, a great way to start finding free Certified Nursing Assistant training is to contact the Workforce center where you live.  If you can prove to the Workforce Center that you cannot afford Certified Nursing Assistant training but would benefit from the career opportunities that such training would provide, the Workforce Center will often pay for all or most of the training.  You can find your local Workforce Center online, but the best way to contact them is by making a visit to the center where you can talk to representatives face to face and get the information you need to get started.

Another program that you may not already know about is called the ‘Displaced Homemakers’ program.  The program is designed for single parents, both male and female, who are looking for ways to better provide for themselves and their children.  You will have to show that you do not have the financial means to afford training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, and that this training would allow you to make more money in a skilled position.  There are a limited number of spots available in these programs, so you will need to apply as soon as you are able to in order to get a spot.  However, if you are accepted into this program, it is a great way to receive your training and move into a higher paying job as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Free Certified Nursing Assistant training programs are offered by state, local, and federal government agencies.  The Office of Adult and Continuing Education is a great place to start, as this agency can not only offer programs that may pay for your training, they can lead you to employers and other agencies that will assist with tuition needs.  If you are interested in joining the military after completing your training, you can look into ROTC scholarships that allow you to enter the military at a higher pay grade upon completing your training.  This means that not only is your training paid for, you have a guaranteed job when you are done!

There are many other programs available which are designed to help you complete your training as a Certified Nursing Assistant.  You can also contact your State Nursing Board for ideas, or talk to local colleges and universities to see if they have programs designed to offer training to those who could not otherwise afford it.  Taking the time to earn your degree through and employment and training program will not only help you earn a higher salary and more job opportunities, it can help you start the most rewarding career you will ever have.

CNA Exam Information

You must complete a CNA training program and complete the CNA certification exam before you can work as a certified nursing assistant(in most states).  If you are about to enroll in a course or are currently attending a CNA exam, you might be worrying about taking the CNA exam.  It will help you to understand a little more about the exam.

The first thing to keep in mind if you are training to become a CNA is that you need to pay close attention during your CNA training.  Your course will be designed to prepare you for the CNA examination.  You must carefully follow all classroom lectures, lab work and hands on studies.  You will learn through studying and through practice. Check out our online CNA study guide to get a comprehensive review of the exam and ensure you are well prepared.

Written Portion of the CNA exam

A CNA certification exam is divided into two different parts, both of which will be completed in the same day.  You will begin by taking a written examination.  The written portion of the test will cover a lot of the material that you learned during your lectures and labs.  Questions will pertain to patient care, patient charting and other important lessons and skills you learned during your training course.

The written part of the test will be comprised of multiple choice questions that you must answer.  You will usually have up to two hours to complete this part of the test.  In some settings, every student must finish this part of the test, before anyone can begin the clinical portion of the test.

Skills Portionof the CNA exam

Your second part of the test will be where you demonstrate your ability to complete tasks that you will be performing as a certified nursing assistant.  Of course, you cannot demonstrate all skills during the test.  Most tests will have you complete somewhere between 3 and 6 different tasks.  You will be modeling these tasks on a person who is acting as a patient.  Many test programs will require you to bring a friend or family member with you to act as your patient.

It is important to realize that when you are asked to complete a particular task, you must perform all steps that you would perform in a clinical setting to complete that task.  For example, if you are asked to take a patient’s blood pressure, you do not merely walk over to the patient and start taking their blood pressure.  You must first demonstrate your ability to properly wash your hands before working with the patient.

You must remember to knock on the patient’s door to let them know you are entering the room.  Introduce yourself to your practice patient and tell them what you are going to be doing before performing the task.  For example, you might say, “Good Morning Mrs. Jones.  I am Jane and I will be working as your nursing assistant today.  I need a moment to take your blood pressure reading.”

It is important to follow all steps that you learned during your CNA classes in order to pass your certification exam.  Students often forget some basic steps when they are taking the examination.  This is not hard to do since you are not yet working in the clinical setting and as a result of being nervous for the exam.

CNA Certification Exam Tips

Here are some things you must remember when taking the exam.  Show the instructor that you know that you must wash your hands before interacting with a patient.  Demonstrate the fact that you know you must knock on a patient’s door before entering the room.  If there is not a door to a room where you are testing, mention to the examiner that this is when you would knock on the door before entering the room.  Remember to introduce yourself to your model patient.  Close the privacy curtain in their room (or mention that you would be closing this curtain now if you were in a clinical setting).

Even when you are testing, it is important to tell your model patient what you are going to be doing before demonstrating your skill.  For example, let him or her know that you are going to be repositioning them in bed or helping them to get dressed and groomed for the day.  You never want to just barge into a patient’s room without telling them what you will be doing.

When you are taking the skills portion of your certification exam, there are a couple other things to remember.  It is important to put up a patient’s side rails if you are going to be moving them in their bed or performing another task where you need to make certain they do not fall.  Side rails should be put back down after you are finished with your task unless there is an order to always have their side rail up for safety.

If one of your tasks that you must demonstrate is to brush a patient’s hair or help them to dress, remember to ask your model patient what they would like.  For example, you can ask if they have a particular outfit they would like to wear today or how they would like their hair to be styled.  You must always help a patient to preserve their dignity.  This must be demonstrated even during your certification exam.

 

Taking the CNA exam will not be as difficult as you might think if you have followed along during your course.  You should look over all handouts and tests you took during your training course.  In addition, you can find practice exams and study guides online that you can purchase for use when studying for the exam.  Enlist the help of family and friends to allow you to practice some of your CNA skills before the test.  Remember, it will be possible to retake the test if you fail on the first try.

Passing The Written Portion Of Your CNA Test

The written portion of the certified nurse assistant test varies from state to state.  It is comprised of a set number of questions and you must get a specific percentage right to pass the exam.  Many students’ struggle with this part of the test and sometimes even fail for various preventable reasons.  By setting good study skills, you ensure that you can be a success.

When you first enroll in a nurse assistant program, vow to set aside half an hour each night to review the material that you learned that day.  Spend this time to focus on things you may have misunderstood in class or been a little confused about.  Make notes of things you would like to clarify with your instructor.  By reviewing the material that was presented to you earlier in the day, you are helping to commit it to memory.

Know your study style. Some students do best quizzing themselves with index cards, or carrying index cards with them.  Others prefer to rewrite notes and key points from the text.  Still others find highlighting things in the notes and text book to review later helpful.  Many students find that reading the text or notes aloud helps them to remember.  Find your best method and use it often.

Passing the written CNA exam

Know your best study time. If you are naturally a morning person, set your alarm.  Get up and enjoy the quiet of the morning and hit the books.  If you are more of a night owl, wait until the sun sets, pull out your notes, and start studying.

Know your best study setting. Keep the room a comfortable temperature.  If it is too cool, grab a sweater and extra socks or slippers.  If it is too hot, consider a fan or air conditioner.  Make sure you have enough room for all your supplies:  notes, text book, paper, pencils.   Feeling cramped can be a distraction.  Some students find the kitchen or dining room table an excellent place to study.  This gives you plenty of room with few distractions.  That is the equation for a good study session.

Do not rely on last minute “cramming”. This is a terrible mistake made by many students.  Nerves are high on test days and chances are you will not retain the material that you need to pass.  If you have been studying daily, you should already know the material.  Cramming at the last minute puts you at risk for confusion.  Don’t make this mistake.

Lastly, the harder you work, the better you will do.  There truly is no such thing as too much knowledge.  Learn all that you can before your exam.  Seek out additional material at the library or online.  Ask advice from friends and family.  Increase study time and you will increase knowledge.  This in turn will lead to increased confidence.  Final result?  A passing score on your nurse assistant exam!

Expert Contribution by: Nicolle Wagner, RN, BSN, RAC-CT

Free CNA Training in Alabama

A career as a certified nursing assistant is one in which you will help patients with grooming, bathing, eating, walking and other activities of daily living.  You will help monitor vital signs and pertinent patient information.  You will need to find a training program that has been approved by Alabama as well as pass the state certified examination to become a CNA.  Most training programs are a few hundred dollars and so you might want to look for free training options. We’ve listed a few free training opportunities in Alabama below.

The most common way to receive free cna training is to train through an employer.  Most nursing care facilities and healthcare providers have a large demand for qualified nursing assistants.  Due to this fact, they will hire individuals who they can train to work as CNAs and pay for all the training.  If you use this method to receive training, you will be required to work for that same employer for an agreed upon amount of time.

If you already paid for your cna training, it is sometimes possible to get your money back.  Most long-term care facilities will be required to reimburse you for the fees associated with your CNA training.  This is usually true as long as you gain your employment opportunity within one year of receiving your nursing assistant certification.  For this reason, it is important to keep your receipts for tuition and other training related expenses.

You might be able to receive tuition assistance if you served in the armed forces.  It is often possible to receive help with tuition for training programs even those that are non-degree if you have military benefits.  You can use these benefits to start a new career when you are out of the military.  Free cna training will give you a good start in a new career after serving your country.

Nursing homes in Alabama that might offer CNA training for free

Note: These nursing homes DO NOT Provide CNA training directly. It is however common for nursing homes to employ you and then pay for your training at another facility.

Beverly Healthcare – Lanett – 702 South 13th Street   Lanett, Alabama 36863

Bibb Med Center Hospital & Nh – 208 Pierson Ave   Centreville, Alabama 35042

Big Springs Specialty Care Ctr – 500 St. Clair Avenue Southwest   Huntsville, Alabama 35801

Birmingham Nursing And Rehabilitation – 1000 Dugan Avenue   Birmingham, Alabama 35214

Brown Nursing Home – 2334 Washington Street   Alexander City, Alabama 35010

Burns Nursing Home, Inc – 701 Monroe Street Nw   Russellville, Alabama 35653

Greenbriar At The Altamont – 2831 Highland Avenue South   Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Greene County Nursing Home – 509 Wilson Ave   Eutaw, Alabama 35462

Haleyville Health Care Center – 2201 11th Avenue   Haleyville, Alabama 35565

Hanceville Nursing Home – 420 Main Street Ne   Hanceville, Alabama 35077

Hanover Health And Rehabilitat – 39 Hanover Circle   Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Hartford Health Care – 217 Toro Road   Hartford, Alabama 36344

Hatley Health Care Inc – 300 Medical Center Drive   Clanton, Alabama 35045

Lighthouse Convalescent Home – 2911 Earl Goodwin Parkway   Selma, Alabama 36703

Limestone Health Facility – 1600 West Hobbs Street   Athens, Alabama 35611

Lineville Health And Rehabilit – 88073 Highway 9   Lineville, Alabama 36266

Little Sisters Of The Poor – 1655 Mcgill Avenue   Mobile, Alabama 36604

Luverne Health And Rehabilitat – 142 West Third Street   Luverne, Alabama 36049

Lynwood Nursing Home – 4164 Halls Mill Road   Mobile, Alabama 36693

Madison Manor Nursing Home – 3891 Sullivan St   Madison, Alabama 35758

Magnolia Haven Nursing Home – 603 Wright Street   Tuskegee, Alabama 36083

Salem Nursing & Rehab Ctr Of T – P O Drawer 830599   Tuskegee, Alabama 36083

Sea Breeze Health Care Center – 550 Congress Street   Mobile, Alabama 36603

Self Nursing Home Inc – 131 East Crest Road   Bessemer, Alabama 35023

Shadescrest Health Care Center – 2600 Old Parrish Highway   Jasper, Alabama 35501

Shelby Ridge – 881 3rd Street Northeast   Alabaster, Alabama 35007

South Hampton Nursing And Reha – 213 Wilson Mann Road   Owens Cross Roads, Alabama 35763

South Haven Health & Rehab Ctr – 1300 East South Boulevard   Montgomery, Alabama 36116

Free CNA Classes FAQ

Is it possible to get free CNA classes in New York?

Can I get  more information on free CNA classes in Washington?

Is there any place to get free CNA training in Houston?

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CNA Training in North Carolina

There are a variety of CNA training programs available in North Carolina.  All state approved programs must meet a set of standards set forth by the state.  Read school reviews below.

Courses should teach students the skills they need to perform their duties as a nursing assistant.  Students should be able to provide quality care including assistance with activities of daily living for their patients.  Nursing assistant training courses should prepare students to communicate well with their patients and other members of the healthcare team.  One of the highlighted CNA training programs is located in Jacksonville, North Carolina.  Caring for Life, LLC offers a training program that is affordable, offers a quality education and has flexible schedules for busy students.  In fact, the facility even offers online training for the non clinical portion of the class for students who find it difficult to attend offline classes.

Caring for Life, prepares students to sit for the Nurse Aide I certification exam in North Carolina.  Caring for Life provides extensive classroom training.  They offer classroom instruction, laboratory instruction and other demonstrations to prepare a student to work as a CNA.  An excellent clinical training program is also part of the CNA training.  Students will work with patients in a regular healthcare setting to gain all necessary experience.  The current tuition for the Caring for Life CNA training program is only $350 with training covering a three-week span.  Anyone interested in training as a CNA should consider this training program.

Featured CNA Training Classes in North Carolina

Online and Refresher CNA Classes

Carolina Allied Health Career Prep Center
5870 Faringdon Place Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27609 Tel: (919) 890-0730   and,
3326 Guess Rd.Suite 203 Durham, NC 27705 Tel: 919-890-0730
They are one of a select few that offer online classes. You get access to skills videos as well as in depth study guides to train you for the written part of the exam. This works as a refresher course as well asa full course depending on how well you study. The course costs $280 (as of Jan 2013) and also allows you to partake in one day of intensive skills training at either of the two facilities listed above.

South Piedmont Community College
L.L. Polk Campus, US 74 (PO Box 126), Polkton, NC 28135 | 704.272.5300
Old Charlotte Highway Campus, 4209 Old Charlotte Hwy, Monroe, NC 28110 | 704.290.5100
Lockhart-Taylor Center, 514 N. Washington St, Wadesboro, NC 28170 | 704.272.5300
Their refresher course costs $85 only but requires you to show proof that you have been certified at some point in the past as a CNA1. You can’t join this course if you want to become a CNA for the first time. You can also take this course if you have done the training program in the past but have failed the exam or have not appeared for it.  Students transferring their certification may also take part in this course to prepare them for the NC CNA1 exam. You must have a valid driving license and a Social Security Card.

Other Classes

Alamance Community College Carrington-Scott Campus – Graham
1247 Jimmie Kerr Road, Graham, NC 27253

The Nursing Assistant Training course meets all requirements for individuals to be certified under Nursing Assistant One and Two.  The course consists of 16 credit hours for those who complete the full course.  Students will receive their theory and lab lessons during the training.  They will also complete hands on training during supervised clinical instruction.  It is necessary for individuals interested in this training to contact the Department Head at 336.506.4253.

 Wilkes Community College
PO Box 120 1328 S. Collegiate Drive, Wilkesboro, North Carolina 28697

This community college has a Nurse Aide I course and a Nurse Aide II Course.  The CNA 1 course includes 192 hours of studies.  Individuals can sit for the state competency exam for certification when they complete all segments of this course including the clinical instruction.  The CNA II Course will last for 180 hours.  Individuals cannot take this unless they have worked as a CNA 1.  Students can apply to be listed on the Nurse Aide II registry once they finish this course.

South Piedmont Community College – East Campus
4209 Old Charlotte Hwy., Monroe, North Carolina 28110
Phone: (704) 272-7635

The college offers Nurse Aid II training for individuals who have already worked as certified nursing assistants.  The Nursing Assistant I program is for those who are not yet certified. The class will last for 8-12 weeks.  Students must complete 49 hours of classroom instruction to learn about the CNA career.  There will then be 70 hours spent with lab experience.  The clinical instruction will last for 40 hours.  There are classes at the Wadesboro and Monroe locations.

Alamance Community College – Haw River
1247 Jimmie Kerr Rd., Haw River, NC 27258
Phone: (336) 538-7000

Alamance Community College Carrington-Scott Campus – Graham
1247 Jimmie Kerr Rd., Graham, NC 27253
Phone: (336) 578-2002

Wilkes Community College – Ashe Campus
363 Campus Drive, Jefferson, NC 28640
Phone: (336) 246-3900

Mayland Community College – Avery Campus
200 Mayland Drive, Spruce Pine, North Carolina 28777
Phone: (828) 733-5883

Broughton Hospital – Morganton
1000 South Sterling Street, Morganton, North Carolina 28655
Phone: (828) 433-2111

Western Piedmont Community College C.N.A. Training Class – Morganton
1001 Burkemont Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655
Phone: (828) 448-3532

Catawba Valley Community College Nursing Assistant Course – Hickory
2550 US Highway 70 SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Phone: (828) 327-7000

Catawba Valley Community College CNA Training School – Goodwill Site
2550 US Highway 70 SE, Hickory, North Carolina 28602
Phone: (828) 327-7000

Tri-County Community College Nurse Aide Training- Murphy
4600 East US Highway 64, Murphy, North Carolina 28906
Phone: (828) 837-6810

Tri-County Community College Nursing Aide Classes – Robbinsville Campus
4600 East US Highway 64, Murphy, NC 28906
Phone: (828) 837-6810

Fayetteville Technical Community College – Huskins
2201 Hull Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28303
Phone: (910) 678-8432

Fayetteville Technical Community College CNA Training Program – Spring Lake
2201 Hull Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303
Phone: (910) 436-1443

Check out:
Free Classes in NC
CNA License FAQ in NC 

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Free CNA Training in Iowa

You can start a basic level healthcare position by working as a certified nursing assistant.  This can be accomplished by finishing a training program as well as passing the certification exam.  CNA training programs are offered at nursing care facilities as well as community colleges.  Programs offered by community colleges generally have a fee.  The fee for training programs must be at least $150 if the course is one for a fee. To get free training, follow the options listed below:

Nursing care facilities and even some hospitals also offer nursing assistant program.  Not ever facility offers training programs.  You should contact locations in your area to find those that do.  You will need to apply for acceptance into the program.  If you are accepted and agree to work for the employer as a CNA for a set amount of time, you can receive free cna training.

If you are currently working for an employer who hires CNAs and are interested in changing careers, talk to your employer.  They might be willing to pay for your training to become a nursing assistant if you will continue to work for them (at least for some length of time).  It certainly does not hurt to ask your employer if they might be able to assist you if you are in need of free cna training.

There might be ways to receive the fees back that you paid for training if you are already certified.  If you became certified within the past 12 months, you might be able to receive reimbursement for your tuition.  When interviewing for a job as a CNA, talk to your potential employer to determine if you might be reimbursed some or all of your training expenses if you are hired.  It might be necessary to work for several weeks or so before the employer will reimburse your fees.

Free CNA Training might be available From these nursing homes

Note: These nursing homes DO NOT Provide CNA training directly. It is however common for nursing homes to employ you and then pay for your training at another facility.

Chautauqua Guest Home #3 – 302 Ninth Street   Charles City, Iowa 50616

Cherokee Villa Nursing & Rehabilitation Center – 1011 North Roosevelt   Cherokee, Iowa 51012

Childserve Habilitation Center – 5900 Pioneer Parkway   Johnston, Iowa 50131

Clarence Nursing Home – Second And Smith Street   Clarence, Iowa 52216

Clarke County Public Hospital – 800 South Filmore   Osceola, Iowa 50213

Clc Altoona – 200 Seventh Avenue Sw   Altoona, Iowa 50009

Clc Carroll – 500 Valley Drive   Carroll, Iowa 51401

Forest City Good Samaritan Cen – 606 South 7th Street   Forest City, Iowa 50436

Fort Dodge Villa Care Center – 2721 10th Avenue North   Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501

Fort Madison Health Center – 1702 41st Street   Fort Madison, Iowa 52627

Fountain West Health Center – 1501 Office Park Road   West Des Moines, Iowa 50265

Franklin General Hospital – 1720 Central Avenue East   Hampton, Iowa 50441

Friendship Home Association – 714 Division   Audubon, Iowa 50025

Friendship Manor Care Centre – 79 Sixth Avenue   Grinnell, Iowa 50112

Monticello Nursing & Rehab Cen – 500 Pinehaven Drive   Monticello, Iowa 52310

Montrose Health Center – 400 South 7th Street   Montrose, Iowa 52639

Morning Sun Care Center – 200 Washington   Morning Sun, Iowa 52640

Morningside Rehab & Care Cente – 600 Morningside Avenue   Ida Grove, Iowa 51445

Mount Ayr Health Care Center – 1504 East South Street   Mount Ayr, Iowa 50854

Muscatine Care Center – 2002 Cedar Street   Muscatine, Iowa 52761

Nelson Manor – 1500 First Avenue East   Newton, Iowa 50208

Nelson Nursing Home – 807-809 West Taylor   Fairfield, Iowa 52556

New Hampton Care Center – 530 South Linn   New Hampton, Iowa 50659

New Hampton Nursing & Rehab Ce – 703 South Fourth Avenue   New Hampton, Iowa 50659

Westview Acres – 203 S W Lorraine   Leon, Iowa 50144

Westview Care Center – 445 Eighth Avenue Sw   Britt, Iowa 50423

Westview Of Indianola Care Cen – 1900 West Third Place   Indianola, Iowa 50125

Westwood Nursing & Rehabilitation Center – 3201 Stone Park Boulevard   Sioux City, Iowa 51104

Wheatland Manor – 515 East Lincolnway   Wheatland, Iowa 52777

Williamsburg Care Center – 100 Care Street   Williamsburg, Iowa 52361

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CNA Training in Louisiana

You can receive nursing assistant training at various facilities and training schools throughout Louisiana.  Many of the programs are being offered by two year universities in the state.  Courses can last several weeks or a few months.  Some programs span the length of one semester at a community or two-year college.  State approved programs (which are necessary if you want to receive your certification) must cover at least 80 hours.  Forty of those hours will be spent on classroom training and the other 40 hours will be spent in a clinical setting. Read training center reviews below.

Nursing assistant training programs teach students how to provide basic care for patients in healthcare settings.  They learn to work as part of the healthcare team to assistant patients in retirement community and home health settings.  CNAs also learn how to protect the privacy and dignity of patient’s while helping them to stay in good spirits.  A certified nursing assistant provides a great deal of care for patients.  They must be able to help provide compassionate and kind care at all times.  Patients will rely on the good services and kind face of their nursing assistants.    You can compare quality, price and length of nursing aide programs from more than one training center in your area.

Featured CNA Training Classes in Louisiana

Advance Healthcare Institute
4580 Bluebonnet Boulevard, Suite B Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70809
Advance Healthcare Institute (AHCI) is dedicated to providing the best quality and fastest CNA training in Baton Rouge. Founded by a nurse with over 30 years of experience, we take the time to give you the 1:1 attention and training needed to help you be successful. Our mission is to educate and train competent individuals who will provide outstanding care and service for patients in a compassionate and respectful manner. And the best part is that you can be certified in just 2 weeks! Tuition is just $700 and includes 40 hours of hands-on training and 40 hours of clinical training for a total of 80 hours of training. To be admitted into the program you must be 18 years or older, pay a $150 registration fee, and pass a Physical Exam, TB Skin Test, Drug Test, and Criminal Background Check. New classes start twice a month so register today! Visit Advance Healthcare Institute for more info.

Louisiana Technical College – Ruston Campus
1010 James Street, Ruston, LA 71273
The nurse aide classes at Louisiana Tech last for 155 hours. It is split between classroom hours and clinical hours. During clinical hours you learn to perform various practical skills that you need to know when taking care of patients. The course consists of 4 credit hours and costs just under $700. They also have a refresher course for those who have held a nursing assistant license in the past and let it expire. This lasts for 90 hours and prepares you to take the certification exam again. You will need to show proof of previous license to gain eligibility into the refresher course.

Louisiana Technical College Nurse Aide Training Course – Tallulah Campus
132 Old Highway 65 South, Tallulah, Louisiana 71284

Delgado Community College Nursing Aide Classes – New Orleans
501 City Park Ave., New Orleans, LA 70119

Nunez Community College Nurse Aide Training Course – Chalmette
3710 Paris Road, Chalmette, Louisiana 70043
They have a 7 credit hour course that lasts for an entire semester. You need to have a reading score of 13 on the ACT scale to be eligible to take the course. A GED is not a necessary requirement. You must also complete a CPR certification together with the nurse aide fundamentals. Nunez is affiliated with a number of different scholarship programs which might provide you with the possibility of getting free training for your CNA course.

River Parishes Community College Nurse Assistant Training Program – Sorrento
P.O. Box 310, Sorrento, LA 70778
The course at River Parishes lasts for 155 hours and is one of the lowest cost CNA courses in Louisiana. The tuition fees are just under $360. You will receive 5 credit hours upon completion which may provide you with exemptions when enrolling in an advanced nursing program in the future.

Our Lady of the Lake College – Baton Rouge
7434 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808

L. E. Fletcher Technical Community College – Houma
310 St. Charles Street, Houma, LA 70361
The course at L.E Fletcher is a 5 credit hour course that costs $1075. You will need to take a TB screen test and pass a criminal background test to be eligible for the course.

Elaine P. Nunez Community College CNA Classes – Chalmette
3710 Paris Road, Chalmette, Louisiana 70043

Sowela Technical Community College – Lake Charles
3820 J Bennett Johnston Ave., PO Box 16950, Lake Charles, LA 70616

Cameron College CNA Class – New Orleans
2740 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119

Louisiana Technical College CNA Training Program – Bastrop Campus
P.O. Box 1120, Kammell Street, Bastrop, LA 71221

Louisiana Technical College – Delta Ouachita Campus
609 Vocational Parkway, West Ouachita Industrial Park, West Monroe, Louisiana 71292

You might want to check out:
Free Training Classes in Louisiana
CNA Certification FAQ For Louisiana

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CNA Skill: Assists to Ambulate Using Transfer Belt

Assisting your patient to ambulate regularly provides exercise and helps prevent mobility and circulation problems for the patient.  Many patients who need your assistance may have difficulty getting to a standing position and then walking without help.  Falls can be very dangerous for patients, particularly the elderly, and may result in severe injuries.  For this reason, the use of a transfer belt can make the process safer and more comfortable for the patient.  Before you begin, assist the patient into suitably warm and comfortable clothing that will not hamper movement, such as a robe.  Then, ensure the patient is wearing rubber-soled shoes or slippers that will provide traction.  If your patient requires oxygen or an IV, ensure that the proper equipment is available such as a portable oxygen tank or IV pole with wheels.  If necessary, provide the patient with a walker or cane to assist with movement.  Once you are ready, follow these steps to ensure safety:

Lower the patient’s bed to the lowest level, and lock the wheels.  Assist the patient in sitting, and then moving legs so that they hang over the edge of the bed.  Allow the person to remain in this position for a period of time to ensure the patient is not becoming dizzy.Apply the transfer belt around the patient’s waist.  Help the person to stand by first standing in front of the patient.  Have the patient place his/her hands on the bed alongside the legs, and feet on the floor.  Tell the patient to lean forward, while you grasp the transfer belt with an underhand grip.  Place your feet alongside the patient’s feet, and flex your knees slightly.  Assist the patient to a standing position by gently lifting and steadying the person.  Remain in this position for a brief period to ensure the patient does not feel dizzy and his/her respiration remains constant.Once you are certain the patient is steady, provide a cane or walker.  The patient should hold a cane using their strong side.  Assist the person to walk by standing slightly behind the patient on their weaker side and holding the transfer belt using an underhanded grip.As you walk, monitor the patient carefully.  If you notice changes in the persons respiration, or if the patient reports feeling dizzy or tired, you will need to discontinue the walk.  Be sure you do not rush the patient, and allow them to move at whatever pace is comfortable.  If the patient needs a rest, allow him or her to sit until they feel ready to walk again.  Use the same procedure for standing from a chair as you did when helping them get up from bed.After the patient is returned to his/her bed, be sure to again wash your hands.  Do not leave the transfer belt on the patient after they return to bed.

Assisting patients to remain mobile will speed the recovery process and help the patient remain independent.  The time you spend keeping the patient safe will pay off by preventing dangerous falls.

Examiner Checklist For This Skill:

-  Performed beginning tasks
-  Locked bed or chair wheels, if appropriate.
-  Ensured the person was appropriately attired including non-skid footwear.
-  Applied transfer belt firmly around person’s waist (should be adjusted to allow evaluator to place two fingers between the belt and the person.)
-  Assisted the person to standing position.
-  Stood at the person’s affected side (if applicable) while balance is gained.
-  Ensured the person stood erect with head up and back straight, as tolerated.
-  Assisted the person to walk. Walked to the side and slightly behind the person. Held transfer belt using under hand grasp.
-  Encouraged the person to ambulate normally with the heel striking the floor first. Discouraged shuffling or sliding, if noted.
-  Ambulated the required distance, if tolerated.
-  Assisted the person to return to bed or chair.
-  Removed transfer belt appropriately.
-  Performed completion tasks.

(This is a general checklist. It may vary depending on each state)

Expert Tip by Tanya Glover, CNA

When it comes to using a gait belt, many CNA’s do not do it correctly. There are several reasons for this. One of the main reasons is that while it is impressed upon us in school that these belts are an important part of our work, it is not uncommon to go into a nursing home and find that only a few, if any, CNA’s are wearing or using one.  Personally, I went through the first two years of being on the job before I really learned why it was so important to use it! Once I did start using it I was more comfortable doing patient care and wondered why I didn’t use it earlier!

Using a gait belt is not as easy as it may look. In fact, many newbies (and seasoned veterans) make mistakes. Improper use can cause you to injure yourself or your patient.

Mistake 1: Thinking that the belt is okay for walking a patient all the way to the dining room. Unless the dining room is less than 5 steps away, use another, safer means of transportation. Gait belts are not meant for long walks. They are meant for allowing the patient to take a few steps without much assistance. There are exceptions to this rule such as physical therapy, but that is not our forte.

Mistake 2: Putting the gait belt on the patient with it touching their skin can cause serious tears. Always make sure the belt is applied over the clothes only.

Mistake 3: Allow the patient to help you. If you can use the belt on them, it means that they can help with their movement, no matter how small that help is. Do not attempt to lift all their weight on your own as this will damage your body and leave you out of work without compensation. I say without compensation because if you are injured on the job and it is due to your improper use of equipment, you are at fault and get nothing.

Know the rules and be safe!

Socialization

Human beings are social animals from the day we’re born until the end of life. Residents in nursing homes do not get to see their spouses, children, grandchildren and friends every day as people do at home. Sometimes family members live too far away or just don’t have the time to see their relative in the nursing home, and loneliness and depression can be the result. Residents who were used to doing things for their families can find themselves wondering what to do next.

Loneliness and depression are associated with health problems, including heart disease and infectious disease. People without social connections can lose their appetites or develop weakened immune systems. Residents who are elderly with health problems need to keep up what health they do have to the best extent possible.

Fortunately, many nursing homes have common rooms and dining rooms where residents can interact, and residents should be encouraged to use whatever common areas there are. Some have pianos and organize song festivals, and some have visiting lecturers or parties where residents can socialize. If you see two or more residents sitting in the dining room or common room and not interacting, introduce them. If a resident assigned to you is able to get up and into a chair, then help him or her to go down the hall and into the common room to be able to socialize with other residents.

If the facility where you work has no such amenities, taking the resident out onto the patio where other residents are enjoying the fresh air or for a walk around the block can provide a treat. Residents who are too weak to walk a long distance can enjoy a ride in a wheelchair, and can become acquainted with people who work nearby.

Some residents like to write letters or postcards to friends and family, and seeing that they have papers and pens can be helpful. If visitors would like to know what to get the residents for holidays and birthdays, suggest stationery, pens and stamps.

Talking to friends and family on the telephone is another way to stay in touch. Certified nurses’ assistants can assist residents in looking up telephone numbers and dialing for them if they have difficulty seeing or using their hands.

When friends and relatives do arrive, there is often little they have in common with residents, and conversation can lag. Suggest to visitors that they bring board games or cards so that they will have something to do to have fun entertaining the resident and themselves. Many families grew up playing board games, so it will bring back happy times. Games can even be left with residents so that they can have fun playing with other residents.

Churches, schools and community organizations frequently have volunteers who can go to nursing homes and provide human contact and entertainment. If you know of any such organizations, let them know where there is a nursing home where they can do some good. Local organizations can also be found online. Let your supervisor know the name of the head of the organization and ask volunteer coordinator to speak to the appropriate administrator to arrange for a visit.

QNA’S

Q.  Does socialization have an impact on the overall health of a patient?

A.  Nursing assistants will quickly note that socialization can have a big impact on the health and wellness of a patient.  Patients often have a better and faster recovery if they have good social connections.

Explanation:  Individuals with good social connection often have a better mood and are less likely to be depressed.  Depression or a negative outlook can make it difficult to recover from illness.  If patients socialize with their healthcare providers, other patients, and their own family and friends, they can certain see some improved health.

Q.  What are some things that a CNA can do to help their patients with socialization?

A.  CNAs should always take the time to talk to patients when they are able.  Provide patients with some paper and writing materials if they enjoy writing letters to friends and family members.  Invite patients to participate in activities and other social functions offered in the healthcare facility.  Assist a patient in finding phone numbers of friends and family members if they wish to make some phone calls.

Explanation:  A nursing assistant can go a long way in helping patients with their socialization.  The important thing is to always assist a patient in contacting friends and family when possible.  You should gently encourage residents to go to the social hall and to take part in other social events.  You can also take time to chat with patients if more than one patient is sitting together and seeming to have a little trouble striking up a conversation.

Q.  Is it important for nursing assistants to take time to chit chat with patients some?

A.  It is important for nursing assistants to take some time for chatting with patients when they have time.  Patients are often feeling afraid and a little lonely when they are in a healthcare setting.  It can go a long way in helping with their recovery if they feel connected to other people.

Explanation:  As a nursing assistant, you can help a patient to feel important and help them to know that they matter.  You can do this by taking time to really talk to your patients and to really listen to what they have to say.  Even if a patient needs to vent, you taking the time to listen will certainly help the patient to feel a little better about what they are going through.

Legal Issues Concerning Nursing Assistants

With any type of professional license, there are certain legal responsibilities. As a working CNA you should be cognizant of potential legal liabilities that you may be exposed to throughout your career. If you fail to meet the proper medical standards, there could be significant consequences.

It’s up to you to be familiar with local, state and federal laws relevant to your scope of duty as a CNA. Failure to abide by these laws can result in a civil suit against you, possible loss of certification and in extreme cases may result in fines or imprisonment.

Now that I have your attention, let’s explore some basic guidelines that will help you stay out of the legal hot seat.

Patients Right to Privacy

In 1996, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act was enacted to protect the confidentiality of patients. As a nursing assistant, you are responsible for safeguarding the privacy of patients. Medical issues should only be discussed with the patient’s doctor, nursing staff, other members of the medical team and close relatives.

Know Your Facility’s Policies

It’s essential that you perform your duties by following the correct procedures of your place of employment and within the scope of your training. If you are unsure about a certain policy or procedure, always check with your immediate supervisor.

Continuing Education

Keep up to date on continuing education requirements to provide the highest level of care to your patients. This will also allow you to stay informed about any new or changing medical procedure.

Legal Issues

In addition to the previously mentioned guidelines, there are a variety of legal terms that every CNA should be acquainted with. Be aware of the following legal issues and know how to avoid them during your career.

Malpractice

This involves negligent conduct that results in harm to the patient. Examples include practicing outside the scope of your duties, not providing care as previously trained and failing to follow your facility’s policies.

Negligence

This consists of the lack of reasonable care due to carelessness and often results in injury or harm to the patient. Negligence usually occurs when a CNA is in a hurry.

Types of Patient Abuse

There are four types of abuse that have been identified within the medical community. They consist of physical, sexual, psychological and verbal abuse.

Physical

Examples include hitting, kicking and roughhousing with patients. Another form of physical abuse involves providing the incorrect treatment to patients.

Sexual

This can involve any type of seductive or sexual harassing behavior directed toward the patient. Another form of sexual abuse is forcing a patient to do a sexual act against their will.

Psychological

This type of abuse includes patient intimidation through threats or any other harassing behavior that would cause emotional harm to the patient.

Verbal

This includes the inappropriate use of tone and language as well as any unpleasant gestures or names directed toward patients.

Property Rights

All patients have the right to have their personal items safeguarded during their stay in any healthcare facility. Theft of a patient’s property is nothing less than a crime.

Assault and Battery

Assault is defined as intentionally attempting to harm someone; battery involves actually committing the offense. In a medical environment, these terms don’t always involve attacking someone. Simply performing a treatment against the patient’s will could cause significant legal problems.

To avoid this situation, always inform patients of what treatment you plan to perform, and immediately stop if the patient refuses.

This is known as informed consent. Conversely, forcing the patient to do something against their will is defined as coercion. If the patient refuses treatment at any time, notify your supervising nurse.

False Imprisonment and Involuntary Seclusion

Patients have the right to come and go as they please. You must obtain proper authorization before restricting any movement. Additionally, the use of physical restraints must be specifically ordered by a doctor prior to being utilized on any patient.

When a patient is held against their will, it’s known as involuntary seclusion. Sometimes patients become unruly and can cause problems in common areas that are shared by other patients. Check with your supervisor before removing these patients.

Considerations

Your goal as a CNA is to provide the highest level of care to your patients. By following these guidelines and the proper legal standards, you are ensuring that you’re doing both you and your patients justice throughout your career.

CNA Certification in Maryland

The state of Maryland takes the training of qualified CNAs very seriously.  You will receive extensive training if you wish to start on the path to become a certified nursing assistant in Maryland.

Training Hours and Requirements

You will learn the skills you need to provide excellent care as a nursing assistant when attending a training course.  It is necessary to enroll in training course that has been approved by the state if you want to be eligible to sit for certification testing.  The state of Maryland requires at least 100 hours of training for potential nursing assistants.

Training programs are taught by experienced registered nurses.  You will have classroom, lab and clinical instruction providing you with the knowledge and skills needed to be a CNA.  When you complete your nursing assistant training class, you will need to sit for the CNA certification exam. T his exam is administered by the Geriatric Nursing Assistant Testing Service of Maryland.  You must pass the written as well as the skills test if you wish to become certified.

Application for Endorsement to Transfer CNA Certification to Maryland

Maryland typically only offers certification through endorsement from certain states.  If your application for endorsement is not accepted, you will need to attend a training course in Maryland and then challenge the nursing assistant certification exam.  Endorsement is usually offered to CNAs who received certification in:  Virginia, Maine, Delaware, New York, Illinois, West Virginia, Idaho, Florida, Oregon and Kansas.

Exact Steps For Transfer:

Take the following steps if you are hoping to transfer a CNA certification from one state to the state of Maryland.

Verify that your certification in the other state is in good standing as well as being up-to-date and still active.Contact the Maryland CNA program for an application to transfer your certification.  You can call: 410-585-2044  410-585-2044, send a fax request to 410-764-8042 or even email your request to:  estanley@dhmh.state.md.usComplete each section of the endorsement application as instructed by always answering questions completely and honestly.Submit a hard copy of the CNA certification from the state where you are certified.Include a passport size photo of yourself with your application. Submit proof with your application that you  had your fingerprints taken for the background check.Send all information to the address on your application and await a response to your application to have your certification transferred.CNA Certification Renewal in Maryland

When you live in Maryland, your will need to renew your certification every twenty-four months to continue working as a nursing assistant who is certified.  You should receive forms a few weeks in advance of your expiration date for certification.  Complete all aspects of the form and send it back to the address given to you on the paperwork.  This needs to be done before the date that your certification is set to expire.  Contact the Board of Nursing if your license has expired and you want to know what steps you must take to renew your nursing assistant certification.

Maryland now offers online CNA certification renewal. You can access it here: http://www.mbon.org/main.php?v=norm&p=0&c=olrenew/index.html

Helpful Resources: Free CNA training in Maryland and Accredited CNA classes in Maryland

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Advancing Your Career after Becoming a CNA

You have become a certified as a nurses’ assistant and you are justifiably proud. You are employed in meaningful work that helps other people. What’s next? Many nursing assistants plan on making their own niche as certified nurses’ assistant their life’s work, and some elect to take on more challenging responsibilities as a registered nurse or licensed vocational nurse, also called a licensed practical nurse.

Types of Nurses: The difference between registered nurses and licensed vocational nurses is that the registered nurses usually have more responsibility and can take on more supervisory roles. The hospital’s director of nurses is always an RN, usually with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Supervisors of wards and floors are also RN’s. LVN’s, or LPN’s, can perform more procedures than certified nurses’ aides, but they seldom supervise.

You can study part time to become an LPN or RN

Training Programs: Educational programs differ. The LVN program is usually a one-year program at a community college. It entitles the graduate to take the practical nurses’ licensing exam.  RN programs can be two-year programs at community colleges or four-year programs at universities. The two-year program leads to an associate degree in nursing (A D N) and entitles the graduate to sit for the registration exam. The four-year program leads to a baccalaureate degree (BSN) and also allows the graduate to sit for the RN licensing exam. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is usually earned after the BSN and is also oriented toward supervisory or teaching roles.

Before you read further, you might want to read our other articles on CNA to LPN and CNA to RN

What You Will Learn: In training, RN and LPN candidates learn to perform most of the same procedures. The difference is that, while both kinds of students are taught the correct way of doing things, RN’s are taught why things are done the way they are. For instance, both LVN and RN candidates are taught that a patient should always lie on the right side for an enema. RN’s are taught that this is because the sigmoid (descending) colon is on the left side. In university programs BSN candidates usually get training that is more oriented toward supervision.

What Are Your Goals: Where do you see yourself at the peak of your career? Do you like the idea of being able to do more for your patients without having to supervise others? Then LPN training is probably the right path for you. You will be able to pass medications to your patients and instead of just telling the nurse when a patient complains of pain, you will be able to go to the med room and get a dose of medication that will help. Do you like the idea of being the head of a team, supervising patient care for a larger number of patients while working with aides and LVN’s? Then RN training would probably be the thing for you. If you have curiosity as to why things are done as they are, then the RN training will be more satisfying than LPN training. RN’s also have more opportunities to go into specialties, such as emergency rooms, and critical care units. If you see yourself as someday being responsible for an entire nursing department, then the BSN degree is for you. The BSN degree can also open other doors. Specialized training programs leading to jobs such as Nurse Anesthetist are also available to nurses with bachelor’s degrees. Teaching at a community college or four-year college is an option for nurses with four-year degrees and graduate level degrees. PhD’s in nursing are also available, and are oriented toward teaching and research.

Expert Author: Kathryn Goldin, R.N., M.D., M.S.P.H.

CNA Training in Virginia

A career as a certified nursing assistant can offer a good starting point if you want to be employed in Virginia in the healthcare industry without investing a great deal of money and time.  Many individuals use a job as a CNA in virginia as a starting point for a career in the medical field.  In many states, a job as a nursing assistant is an entry-level healthcare position without much room for advancement.  Virginia however offers an advanced training program for nursing assistants who want to advance their career as a nursing assistant. Read school reviews below.

The State Board of Nursing in Virginia has developed an Advanced CNA training program.  This program is only open to certified nursing assistants who meet certain requirements. The individual must receive a recommendation from a nurse to apply for this course.   That nurse has to be a present or past supervisor for the nursing assistant.  An individual must work as a CNA for at least 3 years before they can apply for this advanced title and training.  He or she must have a current nursing assistant certification.  A CNA who is interested in taking Advanced CNA training should search for programs in his or her area.  The individual should compare programs to find the one offering the best price, a flexible schedule and a high quality of standards.

Featured CNA Training Classes in Virginia

American Red Cross

123 North Alfred St. Alexandria, VA 22314.

The American Red Cross has been involved in nursing for more than 100 years. Our 120 hour Virginia State Board of Nursing CNA training program located in Alexandria Virginia is proud to continue that tradition. Our students experience 80 hours of classroom and hands on skills training in addition to a 40 hour clinical rotation at a nearby long term care facility. Class size is limited to only 10 students which allows each individual extra personalized attention, and our well qualified RN instructor’s are committed to your success. For qualified military spouses seeking financial assistance we are an approved program through MyCAA. We conveniently offer either a four week day or six week evening and Saturday schedule. For more information please call us at 703 299-2527 or visit our website at www.redcrossnca.org.

Southwest Virginia Community College

P.O. Box SVCC, 369 College Road, Richlands, Virginia 24641-1101

This college offers a health care technician (Geriatric Nurse Aide) training program.  Students will complete at least 26 credit hours of training.  The program will include classroom and lab hours.  This is a two semester course to be completed in its entirety.   Virginia residents will pay $120.50 per credit.  This is a certificate program offering regular college credits and as such, students should have the opportunity to receive grants and other forms of financial assistance.   More details are available about courses offered at the college by calling 276-964-2555.

Piedmont Virginia Community College

501 College Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22902

This training program will provide students with both the theory and practice training needed to become a certified nursing assistant.  Students will receive classroom instruction as well as the hands on clinical experience they need.  An application for the program and all requested documents will need to be submitted for consideration into the training program.  Prospective CNA students will also need to interview the nursing assistant advisor before they can begin the course.

William N. Neff Vocational Center

255 Stanley Street, Abington, Virginia 24210

This vocational center is for high schools students looking to hands on experience and to explore careers while completing their high school education.  Some students will be able to receive college credits while also working to earn their high school diploma.  Students will receive the classroom and hands on instruction needed to gain the experience necessary for a certified nursing assistant career.  Interested students can call 276-739-3100 to learn more about the programs available to them.

Virginia Highlands Community College – Abingdon
P.O. Box 828, Abingdon, VA 24212

William N. Neff Vocational Center – Abingdon
255 Stanley Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210

Cedars The Nursing Assistant Training – Charlottesville
1242 Cedars Court, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center
1000 East Rio Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22901

Piedmont Virginia Community College Nursing Assistant Program – Charlottesville
501 College Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Southside Virginia Community College CNA Nurse Aide Program – Alberta Campus
109 Campus Drive, Alberta, Virginia 23821

Greensville County High School 1 and 11 Nurse Assistant Training – Emporia
403 Harding Street, Emporia, VA 23847

Riverside Lifelong Health and Aging Related Services CNA Course – Smithfield
1000 Old Denbigh Blvd., Newport News, Virginia 23602

Southside Virginia Community College – Emporia Campus
109 Campus Drive, Alberta, VA 23821

Franklin High School Nurse Assistant Course
310 Crescent Drive, Franklin, Virginia 23851

Paul D. Camp Community College CNA Course – Franklin
100 North College Drive, Franklin, VA 23851

Northern Neck Regional Vocational Center 1 and 11 – Warsaw
13946 Historyland Hwy., Warsaw, Virginia 22572

Rappahannock Community College Nurse Aide Training Program – Warsaw
52 Campus Drive, Warsaw, VA 22572

Riverside Lifelong Health and Aging Related Services C.N.A. Training Class – West Point
1000 Old Denbigh Blvd., Newport News, Virginia 23602

Access Medical Institute and Technology, Inc. – Alexandria
8400 Radford Ave., Alexandria, VA 22309

Care Experts Medical Institute, LLC. CNA Program – Alexandria
6969 Richmond Highway, Alexandria, Virginia 22306

Make sure you check out:
Free Training in Virginia
CNA License FAQ in Virginia

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Free CNA Training in South Dakota

You are well on your way to a career where you can make the difference in the lives of people who are ill or elderly if you have decided to become a certified nursing assistant.  It will be necessary for you to complete a training school for CNAs that has been approved by the state.  Additionally, there is a certification exam that you will need to pass.  Here are a few free training opportunities:

In South Dakota you can become a nursing assistant by training at medical facilities and at some community colleges.  You can also receive training through the American Red Cross in South Dakota.  If you attend Red Cross training, you might be eligible for grants and scholarships through local organizations in your area.

Medical facilities often offer free CNA training for individuals who are hired to work for the facility.  If you are willing to work for a particular facility for an agreed upon amount of time, this is a good way to receive your training.  It is also a good option because you know you will have employment after you receive your CNA certification.

You might be able to receive payment for your CNA training if you are currently unemployed especially if you were laid off of work from an employer that closed their business or had to cut down on employees.  Talk to an unemployment officer about ways to access free training for a new career.  Similar options might be available to you if you are receiving welfare benefits and are looking to become self sufficient.

Do not forget to apply for scholarships and grants if you take CNA training at a community college or other type of college.  These non-degree programs are not always eligible for financial aid but it certainly does not hurt to apply.  If you are able to be approved for enough financial assistance, than you can obtain free CNA training.

Nursing homes where you could try to get free CNA training in South Dakota

Note: These nursing homes DO NOT Provide CNA training directly. It is however common for nursing homes to employ you and then pay for your training at another facility.

Avera Prince Of Peace Ret Comm – 4500 Prince Of Peace Place   Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57103

Avera Rosebud Country Care Ctr – “300 Park Street, Po Box 408″   Gregory, South Dakota 57533

Avera Sr James Care Center And – 2111 West 11th Street   Yankton, South Dakota 57078

Belle Fourche Health Care Ctr – 2200 13th Ave   Belle Fourche, South Dakota 57717

Bennett County Healthcare Ctr – “102 Major Allen, Po Box 70-D”   Martin, South Dakota 57551

Bethany Lutheran Home – 1901 South Holly Avenue   Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57105

Bethel Lutheran Home – 1001 S Egan Ave   Madison, South Dakota 57042

Bowdle Nursing Home – “8001 W 5th Street, Po Box 308″   Bowdle, South Dakota 57428

Brookview Manor – 300 22nd Ave   Brookings, South Dakota 57006

Bryant Parkview Care Center – W Hwy 28 Po Box 247   Bryant, South Dakota 57221

Canistota Good Samaritan – 700 West Main St   Canistota, South Dakota 57012

Canton Good Samaritan Center – 1022 North Dakota Avenue   Canton, South Dakota 57013

Diamond Care Center – 901 N Main St Po Box 300   Bridgewater, South Dakota 57319

Eastern Star Home Of Sd – 126 W 12th Avenue   Redfield, South Dakota 57469

Estelline Nursing & Care Ctr – 205 Fjerestad Po Box 130   Estelline, South Dakota 57234

Faulkton Healthcare Center – 1401 Pearl St   Faulkton, South Dakota 57438

Prairie View Care Center – 401 South First Avenue Po Box 68   Woonsocket, South Dakota 57385

Riverview Manor – 611 East 2nd Ave   Flandreau, South Dakota 57028

Rosholt Care Center – “85 1st Avenue East, Po Box 108″   Rosholt, South Dakota 57260

Scotland Good Samaritan Center – 130 6th Street   Scotland, South Dakota 57059

Sd Human Svcs Ctr – Geriatric – 3515 Broadway Ave Po Box 76   Yankton, South Dakota 57078

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CNA Training in Vermont

There are many options for training available to you if you want to become a certified nursing assistant in Vermont.  Many nursing care facilities offer training programs at their facilities. Read school reviews below.

The American Red Cross in Vermont also offers nursing assistant training.  The Red Cross program covers 100 hours of training.  Students interested in this course should apply for financial assistance through the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation.  This course prepares students for all aspects of a career as a CNA and only takes about 3 weeks to complete from start to finish.  Students are generally very successful at passing the certification exam after completing a Red Cross training program.

Some community colleges and technical schools offer CNA training for individuals who want to purse an entry level healthcare position.  The Randolph Technical Career Center  in Vermont is one such option.  This course prepares individuals for a career as a certified nursing assistant.  Students will have classroom instruction.  They will also complete an internship as well as clinical studies.  The program is a seven credit course for students.  It is sometimes possible for individuals to receive grants and financial assistance for nursing assistant training programs.

Featured CNA Training Classes in Vermont

Cold Hollow Career Center

P.O. Box 530, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450

The training center helps to prepare students for good careers once they graduate high school.  Eligible high school students can select career training in various fields including to train as a certified nursing assistant.  Students can enroll in the medical studies course where they will learn about various aspects of healthcare.  In their second year at the school, students can then opt to receive training as a medical assistant or nursing assistant.  Co-op opportunities are available for students to receive in depth hands on experience.  Call (802)933-4003 for more details.

Green Mountain Technology and Career Center

738 VT Route 15 West, Hyde Park, Vermont 05655

Adults can attend LNA training through this learning center.  The training is offered in conjunction with the Manor Nursing home In Morrisville.  This course prepares students to be able to sit for the licensing exam.  The training class will last for 8 weeks and will include 100 hours of training.  Both classroom and clinical training must be completed. Students must attend class two days each week.  It is possible for students to apply for non-degree grants to help cover the cost of tuition.   Basic tuition is in the amount of $1200.  Call (802) 888-4447 if you want to learn more about this training opportunity.

Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center Nurse Aide Course

51 Charles Ave., Middlebury, Vermont 05753

This center offers various program options to meet the needs of students.  Students in 11th and 12th grade can explore healthcare careers during Level One Training.  They can gain knowledge and basic skills which would allow them to pursue various entry level healthcare careers.  For instance, they will receive the knowledge they need to pursue a career as a nursing assistant.  Courses are offered five days per week for half days during the school year.

Cold Hollow Career Center – Enosburg Falls
P.O. Box 530, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450

Franklin County Rehabilitation Nursing Aide CLasses – St. Albans
110 Fairfax Road, St. Albans, Vermont 05478

Northwest Technical Center  – St. Albans
71 South Main Street, St. Albans, VT 05478

Burlington Health and Rehabilitation
300 Pearl Street, Burlington, VT 05401

Fletcher Allen Health Care CNA Training Program – Burlington
111 Colchester Ave., Burlington, Vermont 05401

Green Mountain Nursing Home Nurse Aide Program – Colchester
1102 Ethan Allen Ave., Colchester, VT 05446

Starr Farm Nursing Home Nurse Aide Classes – Burlington
98 Starr Farm Road, Burlington, Vermont 05401

Visiting Nurse Assoc. of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties – Colchester
1110 Prim Road, Colchester, VT 05446

Eden Park CNA Training Class – Rutland
99 Allen St., Rutland, VT 05701

Genesis Eldercare Mountain View Nursing Aide  Training Course – Rutland
9 Haywood Ave., Rutland, VT 05701

Stafford Technical Center – Rutland
8 Stratton Road, Rutland, Vermont 05701

River Valley Technical Center Nursing Program – Springfield
307 South St., Springfield, VT 05156

Springfield Health and Rehabilitation Center
105 Chester Road, Springfield, Vermont 05156

Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community Nursing AideCourse – Windsor
49 Cedar Hill Drive, Windsor, VT 05089

Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center CNA Classes – Windsor
289 County Road, Windsor, Vermont 05089

Make sure you also read:
Free CNA Training classes in Vermont
CNA License Transfer to Vermont

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CNA Certification in North Carolina

You can work as a nursing assistant and perform nursing related duties for patients in healthcare setting by receiving your nursing assistant training and passing the certification exam.  There are well over 100 training courses and programs available within the state of North Carolina.  Programs can be found at nursing care facilities, community colleges and other institutes of higher education.

Training Requirements and Hours

Training programs that make you eligible to sit for the nursing assistant certification test are approved and regulated by the Division of Health Service Regulation in North Carolina.  The courses must meet the requirements set forth by this department.

The courses will provide you with training to provide basic nursing services (mainly those that are non-medical).  You will learn to preserve the rights and dignity of your patients and to perform your duties safely and effectively.  Nursing assistant training courses in North Carolina will be at least 75 hours to meet the minimum requirements set forth by the Federal government.

You will need to complete all portions of a training course before you can apply to sit for the nursing assistant competency exam.  The tests are administered by the Pearson VUE company and meet all standards set forth by the state of North Carolina.

Certified Nursing Assistant License Renewal in North Carolina

You will want to make sure that you work for at least 8 hours providing nursing or nursing related duties if you want to simply renew your nursing assistant certification.  A nursing assistant certification will need to be renewed every two years.  The process is rather easy as long as you worked for a few hours during that time, have not had any complaints by patients and have not been convicted of any crimes.

Carefully review your nursing assistant renewal forms which you will receive a few weeks before your certification expires.  Send in any verification and documentation requested. Make certain that you do not receive the papers and put them aside thus forgetting to renew your certification.

Transfer Nursing Assistant Certification to North Carolina Via Reciprocity

It is important to know thatNorth Carolinais one of the few states that do not allow an individual to transfer a CNA certification from another state toNorth Carolina.  This state does not offer the opportunity for individuals to apply to be listed on the North Carolina Nursing Aide Registry through endorsement or reciprocity.  There are two ways for individuals who were certified in another state to become listed on the Nursing Aide Registry inNorth Carolina.  Individuals can apply for approval to sit for the Nursing Aide I Competency exam inNorth Carolinaand can be listed on the nursing aide registry once this test is passed.  Some individuals will not be able to sit for the competency exam right away but instead will need to attend a state approved training course than then pass the required exam.  Individuals can contact the Nursing Aide registry for more information by calling 919-855-3969.

Also check out: Free CNA programs in North Carolina and CNA classes in North Carolina

FAQ

Q: My daughter just finished a cna II course in North Carolina. Her class ended the 6th of April 2012. She just went online to register as cna II on the ncbon website and it says it,s past 30 days. Well she had no idea about this since it is different than when she listed as a cna I. The instructor may have informed them at their graduation, but she wasn’t able to attend because she had finals for another class. So she was completely unaware of the 30 deadline to list. Does anyone know if there is anything to do? I would certainly hope she wouldn’t have to start all over because of 10 or days.

A: Unfortunately I was unable to find any way around this rule. I too live in NC and knowing how strict they are on these things, I regretfully tell you that she may just have to take the class all over. In this state we are not even allowed to challage the NAII exam. The only thing I can recommend that you try is talking to head of the NAII board and seeing if they will maybe waive the rule due to extinuating circumstances. I am keeping my fingers crossed for you!

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CNA Training in Alaska

One of the best certified CNA Training programs in Alaska is offered through the Alaska Institute of Technology.  The AVTEC partnered with Providence Health System to create an intensive and fast-paced nursing assistant training program.  The program offers an eight week and 230 hour training course.  Classroom hours consist of about six hours per day for four weeks.  Students then spend about six hours each day in the clinical setting to gain the experience necessary for a career as a nursing aide.  Clinical training covers a four week span and is conducted in an assistive living facility.  Students are able to learn a variety of skills necessary to purse a career as a certified nursing aide.  The clinical portion of the course is also supervised by the program instructor for the training program.  Training nursing assistants begin to work on basic nursing skills.  They also learn how to manage their time well and stay organized in order to provide the best possible services for residents (patients).

Any student who is training to be a CNA must also successfully learn basic life support skills.  The Alaska Institute of Technology has specific requirements for anyone who is interested in enrolling in the nursing assistant training program.  Applicants must have either a high school diploma or a GED.  They must also complete an interview with a program coordinator for the intended CNA training program.  Individuals who want to learn more about the CNA program should contact the Allied Health Department of the institute.  Anyone who completes the coursework successfully for the certified nursing assistant training program can then take the nursing assistant certification exam in order to become a certified nursing aide in Alaska.

Providence Extended Care Nursing Assistant Course – Anchorage Alaska
4900 Eagle Street, Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone: (907) 562-2281

Providence Alaska Medical Center CNA Training center Alaska
3200 Providence Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 99519
Phone: (907) 261-2047

Alaska Job Corps – Palmer
800 East Lynn Martin Drive, Palmer, Alaska 99645
Phone: (907) 861-8800
The training offered through the Job Corps is free, but it may not be for everyone. Read our guide on how to get your CNA certificate from the Job corps. It will help you decide if getting your certificate from there is a good decision for you or not.

Mat-Su Career and Technology High School – Wasilla
2472 Seward Meridian Hwy., Wasilla, Alaska 99654
Phone: (907) 352-0426

Fairbanks School District Nursing Assistant Training Alaska
520 5th Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: (907) 455-2876

Heritage Place – Soldotna
232 Rockwell Ave., Soldotna, Alaska 99669
Phone: (907) 262-2545

Kodiak College Nursing Aide Course
117 Benny Benson Drive, Kodiak, AK 99615
Phone: (907) 486-9218
The Kodiak College nursing assistant program is a 140 hour program(80 classroom hours and 60 clinical hours). Preference for admission is given to those who are 18 years or older and hold a GED. While it is possible to get enrollment if you are younger, the chances of actually getting a class are quite slim as they take just 10 students per batch. The total cost for the program is just under $1700 and does not include any sort of immunizations. The cost does include the exam fee which is $249 so that’s pretty good.  You will need to provide documentation to show you have been immunized for MMR, Hep B and Vericella.
One of the admission requirements is the completion of an accredited first aid and CPR course. While this requirement is very rare among other colleges, Kodiak has made it compulsory and also offer the required classes on their own campus.

Petersburg General Hospital Nurse Aide Training Course
103 Fram Street, Petersburg, Alaska 99833
Phone: (907) 772-4291

PWSCC and Cordova Community Hospital CNA Program- Cordova Alaska
P.O. Box 160, Cordova, AK 99574
Phone: (907) 424-7598

Covenant Life College Nurse Aide Program – Delta Junction
P.O. Box 1229, Delta Junction, AK 99737
Phone: (907) 895-4309

Find more CNA classes in Alaska

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CNA Certification in South Carolina

You can work under the direction of professional nurses to provide assistance with activities of daily living for patients if you work as a certified nursing assistant.  There is quite a bit that you will want to know if you plan to start a career as a CNA.

Required Hours and Training for CNA’s in South Carolina

Some states have non-certified aides who are allowed to provide some basic services in healthcare settings.  However, an individual cannot be classified as a certified nursing assistant without receiving proper certification.  To become a CNA, you will need to enroll in a training program for nursing assistants that has been approved by the state.

A state approved certified nursing assistant program in South Carolina will require at least 80 hours of total training.  There will be classroom training as well as clinical experience under the direction of a registered nurse.  You will need to sit for South Carolina’s certified nursing assistant program before being granted certification.  You will be certified after you pass the exam.

Transfer CNA Certification Via Reciprocity to South Carolina

If you hold a nursing assistant certification in another state that is still valid, you might qualify for certification in South Carolina through reciprocity.  You will need to apply to transfer your certification to the state of South Carolina.  The state will review all of your credentials and experience from your previous state.  They will determine whether or not you have reached the requirements to also be certified in South Carolina.

You can be approved for certification through reciprocity if you have an active certification in good standing through another state.  If you are approved, it will not be necessary to complete training or a certification exam in South Carolina.

CNA Certification Renewal

You will need to renew your nursing assistant certification every two years.  Your certification will reflect when current certification will expire.  You will receive paperwork a couple months before your certification is set to expire.  You will need to complete this paperwork in its entirety and submit it to the address provided to you.  Other documentation and fees might be required as well.

Your most recent work history will need to be completed on your renewal form (some of which will be completed by your employer).  It is necessary to have done some work for pay as a certified nursing assistant during the past 24 years in order to renew your license.  If you work for a healthcare facility that is Medicare and/or Medicaid certified, the employer will pay any renewal fees.

Please keep in mind that you will need to sit for the nursing assistant certification exam again if you allow your certification to expire.

Helpful Resources: Free Nurse aide training in South Carolina and Accredited CNA training classes in South Carolina

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How To Get Your First CNA Job

If you have recently completed all requirements to become a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), you are probably anxious to your first job in your new career.  Some people even decide to work as a CNA while they attend nursing school.  It is not as difficult as you might think to find your first CNA job.

One of the first things that you will want to do in order to find a job as a CNA is to search in the help wanted section of newspapers and online classifieds.  You will often see healthcare facilities that are advertising for nursing assistants who are fully certified.  Apply for CNA jobs of interest that you find in your local area.

Quick Tip: Check out our CNA jobs page for links to reputable job sites that have a good listing of CNA jobs.

If there is a career counselor at the school from which you received your CNA training, you can ask for assistance finding a job.  A career counselor will often be able to point you in the direction of healthcare facilities that hire new nursing assistants on a regular basis.  If you trained for a career as a CNA at a hospital or nursing home, you can enquire as to whether or not there are any openings at that facility for which you can apply.

Get in touch with other students from your CNA class to find out who found jobs.  If some people are employed before you, ask for advice on where to look for a job.  If you know anyone who already works as a nursing assistant or who is employed at a hospital, ask them to let you know if they find out about any CNA job openings at the facility where they work or other local facilities.

Call continuing care communities, hospitals and other healthcare facilities in your local area.  Ask about information on any job openings for certified nursing assistants.  You should also contact home health agencies for details on how to apply for a job as a home health aide.  In some cases, you will need to travel around in your local area and care for more than one patient throughout the week.  This is something you will need to keep in mind if you consider a job as a home health aide.

In some cases, you might need to work as a personal care aide or non-certified nursing assistant until a job position becomes available for a certified nursing assistant.  Some healthcare facilities will hire nursing assistants and non-certified aides for certain job duties.  You could take a job in one of these positions until a CNA job position opens up at the facility.

In addition, you can often find a job working with people in their own home who need assistance.  Look in your local newspaper for people seeking a personal care aide.  It is usually relatively easy to find one of these jobs.  You can also place an ad in the newspaper offering your services.

CNA Training in Wyoming

There are some things you should know about CNA regulations in the state of Wyoming if you are planning to work as a certified nursing assistant.  It is sometimes possible to receive nursing aide training for free in Wyoming.  Some employers (especially in long-term care facilities) will hire someone to work as a nursing aide and will provide or pay for all necessary training for an individual to sit for the nursing assistant certification exam. Read school reviews below.

Nursing assistants or nursing aides who are working to become certified are given four months to become certified.   Individuals can be hired for employment and then will have up to four months to complete certification.  This is often referred to as the one hindered and twenty days rule.  The four months gives individuals who have completed a CNA training program a four-month grace period to take and pass the certification exam.  Certified nursing assistant students who need to take time off of their training programs for health or personal reasons have four-months to complete their training and receive certification as well.   A certified nursing assistant who has allowed their certification to lapse also has four months to renew their certification.  Wyoming does all they can to make it easy for nursing assistants to retain certification.

Featured CNA Training Classes in Wyoming

Laramie County Community College

1400 East College Drive, Cheyenne, Wyoming 82007

The nursing assistant training program at this college provides students with the training and skills they need to pass the CNA certification test and to work successfully in this career area. Students will gain hands on experience in lab and practical settings as well as when they complete the clinical portion of the course.  Theory and lecture instruction is also provided.  The course includes a 40-hour clinical rotation which will typically be held at a nursing care facility in the area.  Tuition and lab fees for the course were last listed as $338.  There are additional costs for the textbook and the uniform needed for your clinical.  Contact the Nursing Department for help at 307.778.1267.

Western Wyoming Community College Outreach-Evanston

831 Hwy 150 South, Evanston, Wyoming 82930

The CNA training course offered through the college and their outreach program is a four credit course.  Students will spend time in the classroom and labs.  They will also receive supervised clinical instruction.  Before enrolling in the course, students will need to have CPR Training and to have proof that they have been immunized.  A TB test is also required.  The course will cost $1041 for residents of Wyoming.  Tuition costs are higher for those who are not residents.  The Outreach Center Number is (307) 789-3988.

Central Wyoming College Outreach-Jackson

240 S Glenwood, Suite 124, PO Box 4795, Jackson, WY 83001

Students enrolled in this CNA training courses will receive the training they need to sit for the Nursing Assistant Certification Exam.  The course is not part of the traditional semester schedule.  The course lasts for about 100 hours with students spending 64 hours on classroom and lab instruction.  They will spend an additional 36 hours receiving clinical experience.  Students will receive the training and instruction they need to work successfully as nursing assistants.  The Jackson Outreach Building phone number is 307-733-7425.

College of America CNA Training Course – Cheyenne Wyoming
6101 Yellowstone Road, Cheyenne, WY 82009

CNA Training Center – Cheyenne
3100 Henderson Dr., Cheyenne, Wyoming 82001

West Park Hospital LTC. Nursing Aide Course – Cody
707 Sheridan Ave., Cody, WY 82414

Health Education Services CNA Training Course – Lander
40 Sunshine Dr., Lander, WY 82520

Weston County Health Services – Newcastle
1124 Washington Blvd., Newcastle, Wyoming 82701

Wyoming Indian High School CNA school – Pavillion Wyoming
320 West Main Street, Pavillion, WY 82523

Carbon County Higher Education Center Vocational School nurse aide Program – Rawlins
812 East Murray, Rawlins, WY 82301

Wind River High School Nurse assistant Course – Riverton
1994 Cougar Dr., Riverton, Wyoming 82523

Central Wyoming College Nursing Assistant Course – Riverton
2660 Peck Ave., Riverton, WY 82501

Fremont County School District Outreach – Riverton
320 West Main Street, Riverton, Wyoming 82501

Western Wyoming Community College Nurse training Course – Rock Springs
2500 College Dr., Rock Springs, WY 82901

Sage View Care Center Nursing Aide Program – Rock Springs
1325 Sage Street, Rock Springs, Wyoming 82901

Valley View Health Care Center CNA training Course – Saratoga
207 East Holly Ave., Saratoga, WY 82331

Also Check Out:
Free CNA Classes in Wyoming
CNA Certification Issues In Wyoming

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