3 Free CNA Classes in San Antonio TX

See where you can find free CNA training classes in San Antonio TX

By Sybil Morneau
Published on September 1st, 2013

A certified nursing assistant (CNA) is trained to work in a hospital, nursing home or other type of health care facility. A CNA assists the registered nurses (RN) and licensed practical nurses (LPN) with patient care. The CNA works under the direction of an RN, LPN or Physician and undertakes tasks such as daily patient care including bathing, dressing and toileting, the application of dressings and bandages, meal assistance, assist the medical staff with the administration of treatments and participation in exercise programs. Keep in mind, the actual daily tasks will vary depending on the type of facility.

The State of Texas requires a CNA attend a certified and accredited training program that includes class work and clinical training. The State also requires the graduate to pass the CNA licensing exam. Training programs can be found at 2 and 4 year colleges and vocational training centers. The cost of the programs varies, but there are training programs that are available to qualified individuals at no cost and grants that cover the cost of the training.

Texas Work Force Commission

Texas Workforce is a federally funded program that provides employment training for a variety of careers including Certified Nursing Assistants. The purpose of the program is to encourage training in this particular field for the purpose of keeping pace with employment demands.

The program trains students to take the state mandated licensing exam and provide a beneficial service. Texas Work Force will cover the cost of the program, including exam fees, and assist students with job placement. The program includes 100 hours of classroom and clinical instruction and includes subjects such as nutrition, infection control, restorative care, personal care and basic nursing skills. Students will be required to attend all classes and pass all quizzes and tests. Once the student completes the program, they can apply to take the licensing exam.

Alamo Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center

The Heights offers a certified nursing assistant (CNA) training program to potential employees who qualify. The applicant must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma. The perspective applicant must submit a criminal background check and drug and alcohol testing. If the applicant is not a United States citizen, documentation must be presented to validate the legal status of the student in the United States.

The program, under the direction of a registered nurse and certified educator, instructs the student in basic nursing care, nutrition, infection control, microbiology,
restorative care and personal hygiene and care. Clinical training takes place within the Alamo Heights facility. The program meets the state of Texas requirements for CNA and prepares the student to take the state mandated CNA licensing exam. The student will be required to fulfill certain employment obligations upon completion of the course.

The Texas Public Education Grant for Continuing Education (TPEG-CE Grant)

TPEG-CE Grant is an educational grant for students of Texas and may be applied to courses approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board such as the certified nursing assistant (CNA) program at St. Phillips College. To qualify for the grant students must fill out the Federal Student Aid Application (FAFSA), as well as the TPEG-CE application and submit a high school or college transcript.

The grant will cover tuition and fees incurred by taking the program and are available on a first come first served basis. Applicants must be a Texas resident and not in default of a state or federal loan. Students who qualify for the aid may only receive one grant per academic year. Applicants must be accepted to an approved program before receiving the grant. The grant will be paid directly to the school or, if the student has paid the tuition and fees before receiving the grant, the student will be reimbursed.

Sybil Morneau