CNA Training Classes

By Lucinda Reynolds RN

If you are interested in becoming Certified Nursing Assistant, but you don’t know where to find classes in your area you may want to check into Red Cross CNA training classes. The Red Cross offers a complete training program that will prepare you for the state certification exam.

The nursing assistant training classes offered by the Red Cross will consist of classroom and hands on training. The Red Cross provides easy to read textbooks to help you learn important aspects of the CNA job. You will learn medical terminology and communication skills. You will also learn about the different body systems and how they work. This class will teach you more about your role as a nursing assistant and exactly what your responsibilities are.

A second component of the nursing assistant program is the hands on training. You will do clinical hours in a healthcare facility. In most cases, this will be a long term care center or nursing home. You will be under the close supervision of your instructor. In the clinical setting, you will be expected to demonstrate such skills as taking blood pressures, bathing patients and helping them with feeding and toileting. Your instructor will be wanting to see that you know how to conduct yourself in a professional manner no matter what the situation.

The fees for Red Cross CNA training will vary from state to state. In most states, the classes will last for four to eight weeks, and you can attend part time or full time. At the completion of the program, you will take a final written exam. You will also be required to successfully perform specific direct patient care duties.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant through a Red Cross CNA training program can be the first step to a long and rewarding career in healthcare. After you have gotten some experience as a CNA, you will be better prepared to decide if you want to advance your career and become a nurse or even a doctor. Healthcare jobs will always be in demand.