CNA Training Classes in California

Take approved CNA courses to earn your California CNA certification

As millions of baby-boomers come into old age, there is an enormous demand for more healthcare workers. For an individual who does not wish to go to college, but would like to work with the elderly, ill or injured, a career as a CNA is an excellent opportunity.

Regardless of the state, all CNA training programs must be approved by the Department Of Health. Although there are education opportunities online, it is cautioned that anyone who goes this route understands that the whole program cannot be completed that way. Therefore, be wary of any online school that claims participants can become completely certified as a nurse aide via the online course. Every CNA training program must include a hands-on skills training segment that must be completed at a medical care facility under the supervision of a nurse educator. Once the education program is complete, the student will have to sit for a licensing exam. No one can work as a CNA until they pass this exam.

Students can begin a CNA program by the age of 16. In fact, some high schools offer vocational programs that allow non-college bound students to begin their medical training before graduation. Some of the topics covered in an approved CNA program are:

· Patient Rights
· Emergency Procedures and First Aid
· Infection Control
· Long-term care facility training; including the care and handling of residents
· Medical assistance; temperature monitoring, blood-pressure monitoring and the delivery of medication

Training Opportunities in California

In the state of California, there are a variety of places where a person can obtain their CNA training…

· Private Schools
· Technical/Vocational Schools
· Community Colleges
· High Schools / Adult Schools
· Approved Healthcare Facilities

Entry level salaries for CNAs can vary based on location and the healthcare organization, but most will begin around $10 an hour. As experienced is gained, the income can increase significantly. For instance, hospice CNAs tend to be more specialized and knowledgeable, so they may have a higher average salary. More jobs will be available in large metropolitan areas, but because of demand, a CNA can usually find multiple employment opportunities available at any given time.

CNA Employment Options

If tuition is a concern, many medical facilities have certified training programs that will teach candidates for free in exchange for a commitment to work for the facility once the CNA receives his or her certification. This is a guaranteed job, and a great way to start working immediately.

As experience is gained, the CNA can work in home health care, hospice facilities, hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living facilities. If the individual chooses hospice, it’s possible to become certified in hospice and palliative care, thus increasing income potential. CNAs also provide medical care such as measuring and recording vital signs, taking note of height/weight, temperature, blood pressure and heartbeat.

Choosing The Right Program

Although California has it’s own requirements, the state still follows minimum federal guidelines. Therefore, any online course work needs to be compliant with state regulations, so always research web based education programs thoroughly. Finding a good work/study program is one of the best ways to learn and get hands on experience, and it offers immediate employment/income.

CNA Training Programs in California

Use the links to view all California CNA classes: (A-C) | (D-H) | (I-M) | (N-R) | (S-T) | (U-Z)

California CNA Programs

See our list of available CNA programs throughout California. The CNA course list includes several approved CNA training programs, but is not exhaustive and there may be additional programs available as well. Many nursing homes offer qualified CNA programs for individuals seeking employment at that particular nursing facility. We try to keep our listings as updated as possible, but we recommend that students verify current program offerings with each CNA school directly before enrolling.

How to Become a CNA in California

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in California you must complete the necessary steps to obtain certification from the California state board of nursing. The first step is to find and complete an approved CNA training program. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) requires all CNA programs to include a minimum of 75 hours of instruction. Individual states might require additional training beyond the national minimum. Most programs take about 6-12 weeks to finish. The average cost of a CNA training course is between $800 – $1,500. The second step is to take the California CNA certification exam and achieve a passing score. The third and final step is to register with the California Nurse Aide Registry as a Certified Nursing Assistant.