Should I steer clear of this training facility...

Published

I want to take part in a CNA training program so I've spent this past week calling schools and researching to find a trustworthy program that would fit my budget and schedule. I finally found one that would work for me and I would only have to leave work a little earlier than usual to get there on time for the evening classes.

But just a few minutes ago I came across the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services; Texas Standards for Nurse Aide Registry and Training Handbook and it states the following:

Effective September 1, 2013, a NATCEP must provide at least 100 hours of training to a trainee. The 100 hours must include: (1) 60 hours of classroom training; and(2) 40 hours of clinical training, which includes care of residents and has at least one program instructor for every 10 trainees.

The math doesn't add up. This school says the class is 4 weeks long, Monday through Thursday, from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. That's only 48 hours and that supposedly includes clinicals.

I'm beginning to think it was a good thing I didn't let them talk me into registering right away to catch their "Special".

If the program is listed on the txdads website then all should be fine. Normally the courses have a curriculum that outlines how the hours are split up with a class schedule...

I did a search and found it on the DADS website so I guess it's okay. I'll go by and one day and speak to someone in person. I just want to be sure of what I'm getting before I spend $600.

If it helps, I had a similar training module in 2011. I did an accelerated program of what I guess was about 60 hours and had a 48-hour clinical (six days with eight hours per day). I'm not familiar with the program you're speaking of or what the current requirements are, but that was how my accredited program ran. I think it's a 40-hour minimum for the clinical. It appears you're meeting and exceeding the 100-hour minimum, so I wouldn't sweat it. It's always good to check. :)

+ Join the Discussion