Red Cross CNA program??

ann22 · Jun 9, 2009

I signed up for the Red Cross course in Fall River for the summer. Have not met anyone who has taken it. Mine is 3 weeks long!

Steph_Student Nurse · Jun 9, 2009

I took my CNA/HHA course through the Red Cross in Fall River. Yes it is a lot of material to be given in a short time and in my honest opinion did not prepare me for getting a CNA job. When I was first hired (a few months after I had recieved my license) I literally learned as I went along at my job. I did not use anything they taught us, in fact, what they taught was very very basic things and skills. Definetly read through the book (as I did) and ask questions when you feel like you need something clarified. I'm not sure if it was the two instructors we had, perhaps they weren't prepared or a bit underqualified, but I believe that the skills I have obtained did not come from the course, but rather through the expierence of my CNA job itself. Hope this helps.

ann22 · Jun 9, 2009

Yikes, now I am second guessing paying for this course! Were you a nervous wreck when you first started your new job and having to learn as you go along? Do you work in LTC or in a Hospital setting?

Jillian01520 · Jun 10, 2009

Hi

I am currently enrolled in the Red Cross CNA program in Worcester at night. So far I am liking it, but I have read that it does not really prepare your for the "real world", just teaches the basics, which is exactly what our teacher told us last night.

Good luck

ann22 · Jun 10, 2009

What do you think of the clinical portion?

Jillian01520 · Jun 11, 2009

What do you think of the clinical portion?

We haven't started clinicals yet. We started learning and practicing some skill this week. We don't do clinicals until we take and pass the skills test.

KMS2211 · Jun 13, 2009

Hi,

I am glad I found this board. I am starting my CNA course at the Red Cross in Peabody on the 22nd. So it is interesting to see how other people are doing in the program and how they like it. I am nervous but very excited to take this course. Good Luck to everyone and thank you for sharing.

"We haven't started clinicals yet. We started learning and practicing some skill this week. We don't do clinicals until we take and pass the skills test."

I was just wondering does that mean that the red cross actually has you take the state test before you move on and learn more? Maybe I am not understanding what you said correctly. Thanks

southeRNgirl185 · Jun 14, 2009

I am starting my class on the 22nd as well, in Worcester. When I signed up I was told that if you pass the course, they will help you to sign up for the state test at a later date. Hope that helps!

KMS2211 · Jun 14, 2009

"I am starting my class on the 22nd as well, in Worcester. When I signed up I was told that if you pass the course, they will help you to sign up for the state test at a later date. Hope that helps! "

Thank you. I was told that as well but what I don't understand is that going to clinicals is a part of the CNA course so what test do you have to pass to attend clincals? Maybe I am completely misunderstanding this lol.

southeRNgirl185 · Jun 14, 2009

I think there are weekly tests that they give on the material from the book. If you pass those I am assuming they will let you go on to the clinical portion. Then if you pass everything you are all set to sign up for the state test. I think this is how it goes...we will find out soon enough!! :nuke:

KMS2211 · Jun 14, 2009

Well that makes sense. Thank you! :nuke: I know I am so excited to start! Good Luck and you will have to let me know how you like it cause we start the same day!