If you’re passionate about starting a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) in California, it’s important to get familiar with the requirements, the steps to becoming an ACNA, and where you can find the best classes to set you on the right track. Here are some key points to help you out:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) is a professional role focused on providing direct patient care in a healthcare setting.
• ACNA training programs in California generally take between 4 to 12 weeks and costs around $1,300 to $1,500.
• Dreambound is an excellent resource for finding ACNA classes and programs across California, making it easier to start your career in healthcare.

Before we get started, if you're eager to learn more about the world of Acute Care Nursing Assistants, check out our blog, "Complete Guide to Acute Care Nursing Assistants: Roles, Salaries, and Careers." It provides a thorough overview of what ACNAs do, where they work, and what to expect in terms of salary and job prospects.

Requirements to Become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in California

If you’re aiming to become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) in California, here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a valid government-issued ID.
• Obtain or be in the process of getting a Social Security Number before you sign up.
• Have a high school diploma or GED (some programs may require this).
• Be comfortable speaking, writing, and understanding English.
• Complete the enrollment agreement for the program.
• Finish a 160-hour state-approved Nurse Assistant Training Program.
• Set aside about $1,500 to $2,000 to cover your costs, including the program fee ($1,300 to $1,500), certification fee ($50 to $100), background check ($50 to $100), and any registration fees (which vary by program).

How to Become an ACNA in California?

To become an ACNA in California, you need to meet the state’s requirements, complete a state-approved training program, pass the certification exam, and then apply for certification while seeking job opportunities.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Research and fulfill California’s requirements: We’ve outlined the specific requirements for becoming an ACNA in California above, but to summarize, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid government-issued ID, obtain or be in the process of getting a Social Security Number, have a high school diploma or GED, and be proficient in English.

2. Enroll in and complete a state-approved training program: Choose a California state-approved Nurse Assistant Training Program. These programs typically last between 4 to 12 weeks and cover essential topics such as patient care, infection control, and emergency procedures. Expect to budget around $1,300 to $1,500 for the program fee.

3. Pass the certification examination: After completing your training, you’ll need to pass the certification exam. The exam usually includes a written portion and a skills evaluation, with approximately 70 to 100 questions covering relevant topics in acute care nursing.

4. Apply for certification with the appropriate body: Once you’ve passed the exam, apply for certification through the relevant organization, such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or another certifying body recognized for ACNA credentials. The application process typically involves submitting proof of your training and exam results, along with a certification fee. Certification is usually valid for two years and will need to be renewed.

Where to Find Acute Care Nursing Assistant Classes in California?

If you’re on the hunt for Acute Care Nursing Assistant classes in California, Dreambound is your go-to resource. It’s the largest platform where you can find and compare a variety of vocational training programs. Dreambound provides a detailed list of ACNA training options in cities across California. With Dreambound, you can easily explore different training programs, compare their features, and choose the best fit for your career goals.

Head over to Dreambound to search for ACNA training programs in your area and find the classes that suit you best!

Exploring a Career in ACNA Outside California

If you’re excited about starting a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) but happen to be in another state, don’t worry—there are plenty of opportunities out there. You can explore ACNA programs in these states:

• Pennsylvania
• Minnesota
• Massachusetts
• Texas
• Kentucky

If you’re not near these states, Dreambound still makes it easy to find and compare ACNA classes wherever you are by letting you search by zip code. With a bit of dedication and the right resources, you can build a rewarding career in healthcare, no matter where you are.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) isn’t just a career choice—it’s an opportunity to make a real difference in healthcare. By getting certified and actively seeking ACNA jobs, you’re stepping into a fulfilling and impactful role. Now that you know how to become an ACNA, it’s time to start your journey with Dreambound today!

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