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Discussion

CNA in Alberta

I am looking to possibly become a CNA in Alberta (Calgary). Could anybody help me find information on where I could take this training, how long the program is, how much is costs, and roughly what the pay of a CNA in Alberta/Calgary is like? Are there many jobs?

I am graduating from my first degree looking to go into nursing and possibly working my way through as a CNA but I want to know if it would be worth the money to take the course since I have the option of using my first degree.

Thanks :)

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    • Featured Replies

    For starters Canada doesn't have "CNA"s that's an American term.

    We have PSW, HCA, NAs. Personal Support Workers, Health Care Aides, and Nursing Assistants.

    NAs in acute care in Alberta do direct patient care, bathe, assist with feeding, toilet, make beds. No meds. PSWs and HCAs are usually found in the community or in assisted living type facilities. There duties differ slightly.

    Start at Bow Valley, SAIT and the private schools. The ads are out there.

    You should ask the mods to move this to the Canadian Forum, you'll get responses there.

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    • Author

    OKay thanks, i have seen alot of people use the term CNA in canada actually. Do you know how long the course is? I have been searching forever and can not find good info. from canada schools

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    Look at the Alberta Health Services website for Nursing Attendant for the pay scale. It's union and will be higher than agency.

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    Um, OP is right certain parts of Canada does use the term NA/CNA... a family member does one in a nursing home in Canada.

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    Um, OP is right certain parts of Canada does use the term NA/CNA... a family member does one in a nursing home in Canada.

    To most Canadians CNA ==Canadian Nursing Association.

    PSW, RSW, HCA, NA are the terms you will see in use in Western Canada. I believe it is only PQ that uses CNA.

    Because the OP states she is in Calgary, AB, she should know the correct terms used in the province she is looking for work.

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    • Author

    I live in Manitoba, am from saskatchewan, and am moving to Calgary.....thank you though

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    I currently am taking the LPN program at Bow Valley College. I have heard great things about the health care aide program from other students encountered in lab.

    Now I'm not sure if you have considered this, but maybe taking the LPN program would be more up your alley. We can do a lot now in Alberta and the pay is great.

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    • Author

    I actually want to go for a BN eventually, i am just finishing up degree number one, and think i need some time,, but know i will need to work my way thru school if i decide to do that so i thought maybe the CNA would be a really good thing to have.

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