How does one become a nursing assistant?

[americanbeauty]

Hello Everyone,

I am making a career change to become a nurse after being an accountant for 16+ years. I start my pre-reqs next month. I would like to work as a nursing assistant while I am doing my pre-reqs, but I am unsure how to go about becoming one. Are there programs to become a nursing assistant? How long is the program? What are the costs? While someone hire me without any medical experience? I live in Frisco, Texas. Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

americanbeauty

[BabyRN2B_09]

Hi, I am also in Texas and worked as a CNA at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas one summer about 6 years ago. I contacted the hospital and took a course at the hospital that I believe lasted about 3-4 weeks, and we were then certified to work as CNA's in the state of Texas. But considering that it has been a while since I have worked there, I am not sure if they still offfer training at the hospital. You could try contacting HR there to find out if they still offer training for those without experience or looking into one of the CNA programs offered throughout the metroplex. I usually see advertisements for these online and in the newspaper.

[americanbeauty]

Thank you for the information. I will give the hospitals a call to inquire.

One last question. Where did you get your nursing degree? What schools do you recommend in Texas? I am taking my prereqs at Collin Community College. They also have a ADN program. I can not decide if I should go for the BSN or do the ADN. I have a B.S. degree. What are you thoughts?