and rehabilitation center, also called a long term care facility, which cares for patients who have been discharged from the hospital. PRN Medical Services also holds classes for CNA students.
“ Having a CNA license gives you a good foundation,” Stewart explained.“ You can go on to technician jobs or to become a licensed practical nurse and registered nurse. Some schools require that you have a CNA license before starting nursing classes.”
Becoming a licensed practical nurse usually takes two years. An associate degree from a community college can be part of the license process.
Becoming an RN, or registered nurse, usually takes four years and can be part of a bachelor’ s degree program.
“ You can earn a CNA license in four weeks,” Stewart said.“ It’ s 90 hours of training before taking a state exam. If you pass the exam, you can get a job.”
CNAs can work in clinics, long term care facilities, home care and some hospitals. The director of a local health and rehabilitation facility started their career as a CNA, as did Stewart, she said.
At PRN, classes start every two weeks. Tuition for the class is $ 480, but some sponsoring facilities will pay your tuition in full, if you commit to work for that facility after earning a license. The cost for the state exam is $ 89, but the state will waive the testing fee for students who have a letter of employment with a long term care facility.
Certified nursing assistants average $ 21,900 per year in
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