What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is a healthcare professional who provides basic care and support to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and assisted living communities. Their responsibilities often include tasks such as assisting patients with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, and reporting any changes in a patient's condition to the nursing staff.

Training Requirements

To become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, covering topics such as patient care, infection control, and communication skills. The training program must meet the minimum requirements set by the New Mexico Department of Health, which include a minimum of 75 hours of instruction.

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque

The fastest way to become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque is to enroll in a training program that can be completed within a matter of weeks. Many local colleges and vocational schools offer these classes, with some programs as short as 4-6 weeks in duration.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant Classes in Albuquerque

Here are a few examples of Acute Care Nursing Assistant classes available near you in Albuquerque:

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)

• Length: 6 weeks
• Price: $650 (in-state), $1,300 (out-of-state)
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: CNM's Acute Care Nursing Assistant program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a CNA in a variety of healthcare settings. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

Pima Medical Institute

• Length: 4 weeks
• Price: $999
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: Pima Medical Institute's Acute Care Nursing Assistant program is designed to prepare students for a career as a CNA. The program covers topics such as patient care, infection control, and communication skills, and includes a clinical externship.

Carrington College

• Length: 8 weeks
• Price: $2,995
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: Carrington College's Acute Care Nursing Assistant program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of CNA work. Students will receive hands-on training in a clinical setting.

Exploring a Career in Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Albuquerque

If you're dreaming of being an ACNA but find yourself in a different state, fear not—your dreams are still achievable. You might find your path to becoming an ACNA in locations such as Austin, Dayton, Louisville/Jefferson County, Provo, or San Diego. And if these don't match your current location, Dreambound simplifies the journey by helping you easily search and compare ACNA classes using just your zip code. With commitment and the right resources like Dreambound, entering healthcare is possible from anywhere.

Online and Free Options

In addition to the in-person classes available in Albuquerque, there are also online options for those who prefer a more flexible learning experience. However, it's important to note that these programs will still require students to complete a certain number of clinical hours in a healthcare setting.

As for free options, there are a few community organizations and non-profit groups in Albuquerque that offer free or low-cost Acute Care Nursing Assistant training programs. These programs are often designed to help underserved populations and may have additional eligibility requirements.

Certification Process

After completing an Acute Care Nursing Assistant training program in Albuquerque, the next step is to pass the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam. This exam is administered by the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry and consists of both a written and a skills-based component. Once you pass the exam, you will be officially certified as a CNA and can begin working in healthcare settings throughout the state.

Job Environment in Albuquerque

Albuquerque is home to a thriving healthcare industry, with numerous hospitals, long-term care facilities, and assisted living communities that employ Acute Care Nursing Assistants. Some of the largest potential employers for CNAs in the city include:

• University of New Mexico Hospital
• Presbyterian Healthcare Services
• Lovelace Health System
• Sandia National Laboratories
• New Mexico Veterans Affairs Health Care System

The job environment for Acute Care Nursing Assistants in Albuquerque is generally positive, with a growing demand for qualified professionals in the field. CNAs in the city can expect to work in a variety of settings, providing essential care and support to patients of all ages and levels of acuity.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque, the city offers a wealth of opportunities to get started. With a range of training programs, both in-person and online, as well as the potential for free or low-cost options, there's a path to this rewarding career that can fit your needs and budget. By completing the necessary training and certification, you'll be well on your way to joining the dedicated healthcare professionals who make a difference in the lives of patients every day in Albuquerque.

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