3 Free CNA Classes in San Diego

Find free CNA training opportunities in the city of San Diego CA

By Sybil Morneau
Published on July 8th, 2013

People who enjoy working in the medical field should look into free CNA classes in the San Diego, CA area. Often this certificate can be earned either through high school courses or right out of high school. In California, CNA’s must be at least sixteen years old with no criminal offenses. Once you have completed about sixty hours of class-room training and about one hundred hours of on-the-job supervised training, you can begin working for a hospital, nursing home, or as a private CNA.

One location you should check for free CNA training is the International Health Group, Inc School of Nursing. The facility has been working with students in San Diego since 2006 and they enjoy a high percentage pass rate on the state exam. The program lasts about 22 days and goes from 7 am to 3:30 pm Monday thru Friday and weekend classes are offered from 7 am to 3:30 pm. You will need to meet with a counselor during registration and classes are offered on a continuing basis.

A second consideration to find free CNA training is with Belmont Village at Sabre Springs in San Diego, CA. This is a senior living residence and provides care to a variety of residents. As part of the health care team, you will help residents with basic living skills like bathing and participation in activities. To receive the free training, you will be required to sign a contract to work with the facility for an agreed upon length of time.

Third, you may want to check with St. Pauls Senior Homes and Services in San Diego for free CNA training. This facility provides physical, spiritual and social needs of elderly patients. You will need a current first aid and CPR card and you may be required to train in medication distribution. Training can be provided as part of a contract to work for the facility for a specific number of months.

Although several CNA training programs are offered free of charge, you will still probably have to pay $100 for the California State exam. This exam is offered in a variety of locations and you will need to provide identification before taking it. Once you have completed the training and passed the state exam, you will be licensed in the state of California to work in a variety of locations that require certified nursing assistants.

Choosing a career as a CNA can provide both financial and personal fulfillment. According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, CNA jobs should rise about 20% in 2010-2020 and beginning CNAs can make an average of $26,000 a year working full time. Whether you are just graduating from high school or you are looking for a career change, working as a CNA in San Diego, CA is an excellent choice.

Sybil Morneau

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