How do I become a CNA?

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Hi! I am doing my pre-req's right now to become an RN with at least an A.S. degree, but I want to know where I can go (besides a technical school) to become a CNA in the meantime. I really want to do something related before I jump into nursing upon graduating a nursing program. I can only work part-time due to taking care of my 2 year old daily. Is this possible also if becoming a CNA? My sis was working at a convalesent home and was working toward becoming a CNA.(that was a long time ago, and I don't know how she was doing it - but she never completed it) Do I have to go that route? Whoever knows, please help? Thanks. amber.

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I've actually found a school recommended by some of the PCAs (same as CNAs) that work at my hospital. It is a two-week class that prepares you for the test to get your license. Once I get that, I can be trained as a PCA on my floor..work with a preceptor over about 6 weeks. Many (95%) are nursing students so the hospitals look to them as investment into the future.

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I've actually found a school recommended by some of the PCAs (same as CNAs) that work at my hospital. It is a two-week class that prepares you for the test to get your license. Once I get that, I can be trained as a PCA on my floor..work with a preceptor over about 6 weeks. Many (95%) are nursing students so the hospitals look to them as investment into the future.

I'm sorry, what is a PCA? I am still new to all the lingo here. I do not work in a hospital, so I could not do that. If you know of a similar curse, I would love to know how to find one in my area. Sacto, ca. thanks. amber

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Here in Oklahoma city they have 2 week classes at one of the local community colleges. You take the class for two weeks which includes clinicals and they place you at at a medicare facility of your choosing. I don't know if you have to work part time or full time. I'm sure they could work with you on a schedule. I think they are pretty desperate for good nurses aides. Here the classes are free. You could call the colleges in your area and find out if they offer anything like this too. Or....you can go the other route and call the different nursing homes and see what they offer. Most of them are earn while you learn type classes.

I would say it's possible as long as you make time for yourself and your little one. It would give you good experience too.

Hope I helped some..Take Care and good luck.

Nancy- just finishing up my prereq's too..

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I'm taking CNA training at a local Nursing Home. We start next week, with 40 hours class room, then 60 hours of clinicals. We won't get paid for the class room time but we will become full time employees of the nursing home before we start clinicals. With this program The nursing home pays for the test, as well as the training.

I think its a wonderful way to get my feet wet befor heading to Tennessee Tech for LPN classes.

Good luck!

Amy

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