Tag Archives: CNA Schools Near Me in Decatur AL 35601

CNA Classes Near Me in Decatur AL 35601

How to Pick a CNA Program near Decatur Alabama

Decatur AL cna holding babySo you have decided to become a CNA and enroll in certified nursing assistant training near Decatur AL. After you have achieved your certification, you will launch a rewarding career in one of the most rapidly increasing positions in health care within the USA. Although it may well seem like an overwhelming undertaking, it’s imperative that you pick the best CNA course to obtain the necessary training and education. A number of future students begin with the two most basic qualifications, which are the location of the school and the price of tuition. You may additionally be pondering whether to attend CNA classes on campus, or enroll in an online program and attend them from home. More regarding that option later. But doing your due diligence prior to picking a CNA school involves much more than comparing the tuition or location. Such things as accreditation and the reputation of the school must additionally be taken into account. We will be covering those topics along with various other questions that you need to be asking before you register in a CNA school. But first, let’s discuss a little bit about what a nursing assistant does and the type of instruction and credentials that are available.

The Role of a Nursing Assistant in Decatur AL

cna with patient in Decatur AL nursing homeCertified Nursing Assistants complete many duties in the Decatur AL hospitals, practices and other health care organizations where they work. Per their title, CNAs are not licensed by the state but instead are certified. Given that they are not licensed, they function under the direction and management of either a licensed LPN or RN. And as nursing assistants, their main job function is to assist the licensed nurses that they work under. Their duties are numerous and diverse, and in a hospital environment might include:

  • Providing basic services to patients
  • Checking patient’s vital signs
  • Maintaining a record of patient’s health status
  • Cleaning and dressing patients
  • Serving and helping patients with meals
  • Conveying patients to other areas

CNAs might also practice in Decatur AL nursing homes or long term care centers. In those environments, nursing assistants are more engaged in aiding patients with their Activities of Daily Living (ADL). ADLs are defined as routine activities that most people accomplish daily without assistance, such as eating, dressing, or using the restroom. Nursing assistants typically build more of a bond with these patients since they commonly stay in the facilities for extensive time periods. Frequently, they may become the channel between the patient and the rest of the medical staff because of their familiarity with their charges. Consequently, the CNA’s expertise can be a significant resource for planning the proper care and treatment of long term care patients.

CNA Courses

Unlike many other licensed nurses, certified nursing assistants in Decatur AL do not have to obtain a college degree. CNA education can be obtained at a community college or at either a vocational or trade school. The duration of the training program can take anywhere from one to 3 months, leading to either a certificate or a diploma. Under the 1987 Nursing Home Reform Act, students are required to obtain at least 75 hours of training, 16 of which need to be clinical or “hands-on” training hours. Keep in mind that this is the minimum amount of training mandated and each state has its specific requirements. So it’s crucial to make sure that the program you enroll in not only complies with the federal requirements, but also those for the state where you will be practicing. One tip is to check with the health or nursing board for your state to make sure that the training is state approved. In addition to the training, each state requires a passing score on a competency test for certification. Depending on the state, there might be other requirements as well.

Online CNA Programs

attending online cna classes in Decatur ALEnrolling in CNA classes online is growing into a more popular way to get instruction and acquire a nursing credential. Many schools will require attendance on campus for part of the training, and almost all programs call for a certain number of clinical rotation hours performed in a local Decatur AL healthcare center. But since the balance of the training can be accessed online, this option may be a more practical approach to finding the time to attend classes for many students. Regarding tuition, a number of online programs are less costly than other on campus options. Even supplemental expenses such as for commuting and study materials may be minimized, helping to make education more easily affordable. And a large number of online programs are accredited. And so if your work and family responsibilities have left you with little time to work toward your academic goals, perhaps an online CNA training program will make it more convenient to fit an education into your active schedule.

Things to Ask CNA Nursing Schools

Once you have decided on which nursing program to pursue, and whether to attend your classes on campus or on the web, you can utilize the following pointers to start narrowing down your choices. As you no doubt are aware, there are numerous CNA schools and colleges within Alabama and the United States. So it is important to lower the number of schools to select from to ensure that you will have a manageable list. As we already pointed out, the location of the school relative to Decatur AL and the price of tuition are undoubtedly going to be the primary two factors that you will take into consideration. But as we also emphasized, they should not be your only qualifiers. So prior to making your final decision, use the following questions to see how your selection measures up to the field.

Is the CNA program accredited?  It’s important that the Decatur AL school and program that you enroll in is accredited.  One of the more highly regarded accrediting authorities is the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).  CNA schools and programs that have been accredited by the NLNAC are guaranteed to not only provide a quality education but to be state approved as well.  Earning a certificate or diploma from an accredited school is also more likely to be credited towards a more advanced nursing degree at another accredited school.  And finally, accreditation makes your training more valuable in the job market.

Is the CNA course state approved?  Before enrolling in a training course near Decatur AL, make sure that it complies with the certification requirements for Alabama or the state where you will be practicing.  It should not only satisfy the minimum federal requirement of 75 hours, 16 of which must be clinical training, but any additional state requirements as well.  As previously mentioned, if the CNA course is accredited by NLNAC it will be guaranteed to be state approved.

What is the Pass Rate for the State Exam?  It’s preferable to enroll in a nursing assistant school near Decatur AL with a pass rate for the state licensing exam of at least 75% for its graduates.  If fewer than 75% are passing, it may be an indication that the curriculum and/or the instructors are not effectively training the students.  Alabama posts a list of state CNA schools with their state licensing exam pass rates.

Is there an Internship Program?  Find out if the schools you are considering sponsor internships with Decatur AL healthcare facilities.  They are a great way to get hands-on clinical experience not available in a classroom or lab setting.  As an additional benefit, they can help students establish relationships within the local medical community.  They also look good on resumes.  Also check to see if tutoring is available as needed.  Other options may include an internet school forum or chat room where students can ask questions and share knowledge.

Is there a Job Placement Program?  A job placement program can be of great assistance to a graduating student in finding that first nursing position.  Find out how many students are being placed in jobs with the assistance of the school.  If a school has a high job placement rate, it’s a confirmation that its reputation within the Decatur AL medical community is exemplary.  It also confirms that the school has a broad network of contacts to assist students gain internships or employment after graduation.

Where is the school located?  The campus will need to be within driving distance of your Decatur AL residence unless you are able to relocate.  If you enroll in an online program, find out where the clinical portion of your training is available.  If a school has an internship program, most likely the placements will be within its local area.  Also keep in mind that if you enroll in an out-of-state school, or even out of area for many community colleges, the tuition costs as a non-resident may be higher.

How large are the classes?  Ask the schools you are considering on average how large their classes are.  Smaller classes usually provide more access to teachers when students have questions or need extra help.  In contrast, larger classes tend to be more impersonal and limit one-on-one instruction.  If practical, find out if you can monitor a couple of the classes before enrolling so that you can experience the level of interaction between students and instructors.

What is the Program’s total cost?  CNA training and tuition can vary not only among schools, but from state to state depending on certification requirements.  In addition to tuition, there are other costs such as commuting expenses, textbooks and other materials.  When comparing schools remember to include all costs required for your education.  If you do decide to attend an online school, some of the expenses may be reduced.  Most schools have financial aid departments, so be sure to find out what is available in the Decatur AL area.

Can the Program accommodate your Schedule?  Finally, you will need to make sure that the program you select offers classes at a time that you can attend.  If you are still working and need to attend classes at night or on weekends near Decatur AL, make sure they are available.  If you can only attend part-time, make sure that is an option as well.  Even if you have decided to attend classes online, you will still need to confirm when clinical training hours are offered.  Also, find out what the policy is for making up classes should you miss any due to work, illness or other obligations.

Considering CNA Classes near Decatur AL?

Decatur, Alabama

Decatur is a city in Morgan and Limestone counties in the State of Alabama. The city, nicknamed "The River City", is located in Northern Alabama on the banks of Wheeler Lake, along the Tennessee River. It is the largest city and county seat of Morgan County.[6] The population in 2010 was 55,683.[3]

Decatur is also the core city of the two-county large Decatur, Alabama metropolitan area which had an estimated population of 153,374 in 2013. Combined with the Huntsville Metropolitan Area, the two create the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area, of which Decatur is the second-largest city.

Like many southern cities in the early 19th century, Decatur's early success was based upon its location along a river. Railroad routes and boating traffic pushed the city to the front of North Alabama's economic atmosphere. The city rapidly grew into a large economic center within the Tennessee Valley and was a hub for travelers and cargo between Nashville and Mobile, as well as Chattanooga and New Orleans. Throughout the 20th century, the city experienced steady growth, but was eclipsed as the regional economic center by the fast-growing Huntsville during the space race. The city now finds its economy heavily based on manufacturing, cargo transit, and high-tech companies such as General Electric and United Launch Alliance.

The location could not be found.

Choose the Right CNA Course near Decatur AL

Enrolling in the right certified nursing assistant college is probably the most crucial first step to launching a new career in the medical care field. There are various aspects that you should consider when selecting a nursing school. These variables will be prioritized differently depending on your existing career objectives, obligations, and financial situation. As we have stressed within this content, it is important that you choose a CNA school and program that are each accredited and have exceptional reputations within the medical community. By utilizing our list of qualifying questions, you will be able to produce a shortlist of schools to select from so that you can make your ultimate selection. And with the proper training, combined with your hard work and desire to succeed, you can become a CNA in Decatur AL.

Other Cool Cities in Alabama

  • CNA Classes Near Me in Buhl AL 35446
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Sheffield AL 35660
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Winfield AL 35594
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Butler AL 36904
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Livingston AL 35470
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Childersburg AL 35044
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Lillian AL 36549
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Hatchechubbee AL 36858
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Jacksonville AL 36265
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Oxford AL 72565
  •  

     

    Business Results 1 - 10 of 52

    River City Center
    2 Reviews
    Retirement Homes, Skilled Nursing, Rehabilitation Center
    Phone:
    1350 14th Ave SE, Decatur, AL 35601

    Absolute Nutrition
    2 Reviews
    Nutritionists
    Phone:
    901 -C Wimberly Dr, Decatur, AL 35603

    Parkway Medical Center
    2 Reviews
    Medical Centers
    Phone:
    1874 Beltline Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35601

    Decatur Morgan Hospital
    3 Reviews
    Hospitals
    Phone:
    1201 7th St SE, Decatur, AL 35601

    River Oaks Family Medicine
    2 Reviews
    Family Practice
    Phone:
    1813 Beltline Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35601

    Dr Bernice R Swain
    3 Reviews
    Family Practice
    Phone:
    2424 Danville Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35603

    American Family Care Athens
    6 Reviews
    Family Practice, Urgent Care, Medical Centers
    Phone:
    1285 US Highway 72 E, Athens, AL 35611

    Thomas, Wayne E
    1 Reviews
    Family Practice
    Phone:
    2828 Hwy 31 S, Ste 109, Decatur, AL 35603

    Children's Dentistry of Decatur
    1 Reviews
    Pediatric Dentists, Orthodontists, Cosmetic Dentists
    Phone:
    1815 Somerville Rd SE, Ste A, Decatur, AL 35601

    Bump Life Studios
    1 Reviews
    Ultrasound Imaging Centers, Massage Therapy
    Phone:
    540 Hughes Rd, Ste 8, Madison, AL 35758