This program prepares students for an entry-level position as a nursing assistant in a variety of settings such as: nursing homes, hospitals, adult day care centers, personal homes, and assisted living facilities. This program is regulated by Texas Health and Human Services. Students will learn to give direct client care including communication and interpersonal skills, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, the Heimlich maneuver, promoting residents’ independence, and respecting the residents’ rights. Other topics covered include: personal care skills, basic nursing skills, mental health and social service needs, care of cognitively impaired residents, and basic restorative services. Students may proceed into higher level allied health programs such as ADN, LVN, Physical Therapy Assistant, etc.
Entrance Requirements: Completion of a Certified Nurse Aide Application, an unofficial copy of a High School diploma or equivalency (GED or HiSET), a copy of a valid driver’s license or government issued ID, a copy of a social security card, and a copy of a current Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification through the American Heart Association (AHA) (this is included in tuition cost of the program; however, if you hold a current BLS CPR card, please contact us).
Required Immunizations: The immunizations listed below are not required by WCJC to attend the college; however, they are required by all clinical facilities in order to attend and successfully complete the program. MMR (proof of two (2) vaccines or blood work showing immunity), Hepatitis B Series (proof of all three (3) vaccines or blood work showing immunity), Varicella (proof of two (2) vaccines or blood work showing immunity), Tetanus (must be within the last 10 years and valid through the whole program), TB Skin Test (must be the skin test or x-ray showing negative and within 60 days of the first day of class), proof of Flu Vaccine (must be from the current flu season) or Vaccine Exemption Letter, and COVID-19 Vaccine. All immunization records must be received no later than one (1) week prior to the start of class.
Materials Needed: Textbooks will be included in the cost of tuition. Students are responsible for the purchase of scrubs (top and bottom), non-skid shoes, watch with a second hand, and stethoscope.
Clinical Information: A 40-hour clinical is required. Students will be assigned to an approved clinical site and completion of clinical hours will be under the supervision of the instructor. The clinical schedule is Monday-Friday, 7 am to 4 pm with no exceptions or flexibility. No absences are allowed during the week of clinical.
Certification Information: Upon successful completion of both parts of the CNA program, WCJC will recommend each student for state testing. Please be aware that in order to practice as a Certified Nurse Aide in the state of Texas, individuals must successfully pass the state exam. It is the responsibility of the student to register for the state testing through the testing provider. The cost of the exam for this Certified Nurse Aide Program is approximately $125. Please consider the additional cost when applying for the program.
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