Nursing Assistant

Pre-requisition:

• at least 18yrs old (or a Senior in High School)
• Valid Government Issue ID (i.e. Driver's License or Passport)
• High School Diploma or GED (while we do not need a physical copy, most employers will request this document)
• BLS/CPR Certified (Do you need certification or has your certification expired?  Click here to register for our next class: BLS/CPR)
• A Level II Background Screening is required to take the Certified Nursing Assistant Exam.

What is a Nursing Assistant?

A Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in some settings, is a healthcare professional who provides basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). They work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare settings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assisting patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Measuring and recording vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, etc.)
• Helping patients with mobility, including transferring and repositioning
• Observing and reporting changes in patient conditions to nurses
• Providing emotional support and companionship to patients
• Maintaining cleanliness and ensuring a safe environment for patients

Why Nursing Assistant Are Important

Nursing Assistants play a critical role in patient care by ensuring comfort, dignity, and support during times of illness, recovery, or long-term care. They are often the primary point of contact for patients and contribute significantly to their well-being.

This role is an excellent entry point into the healthcare field, offering hands-on experience and opportunities for career growth in nursing and other medical professions.

How much can a Nursing Assistant make?

The salary of a Nursing Assistant varies based on location, experience, and workplace setting. Here’s a general breakdown:

Average Salary in the U.S. (2024 Estimates)

• Hourly Wage: $14 – $22 per hour
• Annual Salary: $30,000 – $45,000 per year

Factors Affecting Salary

1. Location – Nursing Assistants in urban areas or states with higher costs of living (e.g., California, New York, Massachusetts) tend to earn more than those in rural areas.
2. Experience – Entry-level CNAs start on the lower end of the pay scale, while experienced CNAs with specialized skills (e.g., working in ICU or home healthcare) can earn higher wages.
3. Workplace Setting –
   • Hospitals: $35,000 – $50,000/year
   • Nursing Homes: $30,000 – $40,000/year
   • Home Healthcare: $28,000 – $42,000/year
   • Government Facilities (VA, State Hospitals, etc.): Often pay higher than private employers. 

What does the Nursing Assistant Program consist of?

- This 18-week program offers students entry level competencies training in preparation of taking the Florida Board of Nursing CNA Exam. The program prepares you for a rewarding career in health care, shaping you to be an integral part of a dynamic, health-centered team.

The program will provide students with basic training and knowledge of medical care, including measuring vital signs and recording other important health data under the supervision of nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals. 

Students will be able to:

 - Measure and record vital signs, among other basic medical tasks

 - Receive and report patients’ concerns

 - Relocate, turn, or move patients as needed for comfort or medical care

 - Assist patients with daily tasks, such as dressing and eating

 - Provide personal hygiene assistance to patients, including bathing and toileting

DRESS CODE : A dress code is required for this program.  You are required to purchase and wear the approved color (black) scrubs/uniform to each class and Hands-on training workshops. Closed toe shoes, not sandals are to be worn. You may purchase a white lab coat/jacket, but a disposable lab coat/jacket will be provided and should be always worn during clinicals/hands-on labs. 

Nursing Assistant Program Outline:

Our Nursing Assistant Program is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to provide compassionate and professional patient care. This program prepares students for entry-level positions in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare settings.

1. Introduction to Healthcare & Nursing Assistance

• Role & responsibilities of a Nursing Assistant
• Healthcare team dynamics
• Patient rights & ethical considerations

2. Basic Patient Care Skills

• Bathing, dressing, feeding, and grooming assistance
• Bed-making & patient positioning techniques
• Assisting with toileting and incontinence care

3. Infection Control & Safety Procedures

• Hand hygiene & proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Standard precautions & preventing the spread of infections
• Emergency procedures & handling hazardous materials

4. Vital Signs & Health Monitoring

• Measuring & recording blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiration
• Recognizing abnormal signs & reporting patient concerns
• Basic documentation & electronic health records (EHR)

5. Mobility & Rehabilitation Assistance

• Transferring & positioning patients safely
• Assisting with range of motion (ROM) exercises
• Use of mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)

6. Communication & Patient Interaction

• Effective communication with patients & families
• Providing emotional support & compassionate care
• Understanding cultural sensitivity in healthcare

7. Specialized Care & Working with Diverse Populations

• Caring for elderly & dementia patients
• Assisting patients with disabilities or chronic conditions
• End-of-life care & hospice support

Where is the program held?

We are located in Panama City, Florida.  

Our physical address is: 

2211 Hwy 77 Suite 203 B, 

Lynn Haven, FL. 32444

Can I take this program online?

Unfortunately, this program is not currently offered as a Hybrid or Online program.  Due to the extent and variety of skills and knowledge taught, this program provides a solid foundation for the key skills and procedures at the nursing assistant practice!

Is this program a Certificate of Completion or National Certification program?

Both!

Upon completion and passing the program, you will receive a Certificate of Completion for the program and will have the opportunity to take the Florida Board of Nursing Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam. The price of the initial exam is included in your tuition.

What National CNA Certification does this program offer?

- The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has contracted with Prometric to develop and administer its Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam. 

-  Prometric is a global leader in credentialing and skills development, leveraging 30 years of expertise, innovation, and industry-leading solutions to create pathways for tomorrow’s workforce. 

Do you offer a Payment Plan?

Yes!

See "Payment Options"

This program includes books & materials, study questions, critical thinking, certified medical assistant/instructor, and hands-on training