CNA programs in the Bay Area (CA)

[gdavge2003]

Hey all,

I'm graduating soon in mid-May, and I was thinking of enrolling into a short 4-6 week CNA program in order to gain clinical experience and also find a clinical job as I apply for ABSN/MEPN programs for next fall.

I've been doing some online searching and it seems that there are very few good programs around. The only reliable one seems to be with Red Cross. They have a neat 4-week program. I've found some other programs, but many seem to be lacking in information, have weird requirements (ex: need malpractice insurance..), etc. I was wondering if anyone living in the Bay Area know of any good, short CNA programs out there.

Also, based on your experience, how long did it take for you to find a job after becoming a CNA?

[NevadaFighter, BSN, RN]

To my knowledge, CNAs typically don't have too much trouble finding a job. There are needed at practically every health care establishment and there is a high turnover rate. Any kind of experience you can get would benefit you before you start school. Good luck!

[Lame]

NCP in Hayward and South SF has a pretty good program. I did my CNA there last summer and found out a job about 2 weeks after passing the exam. They help you w/ job assistance by looking at your resume and sending emails about which facilities are hiring.

[i_love_patient_care]

I did mine at vallejo nursing school in vallejo. The instructor was really nice and they helped a lot with learning skills. As far as finding a job, I did mine a few years ago. I'm not sure what its like in the Bay Area for new cna's. Check job listings and see how much experience they're asking for.