What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, or ACNA, is a healthcare professional who provides basic patient care and support in acute care settings, such as hospitals, emergency rooms, and intensive care units. They work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to assist with a variety of tasks, including:

• Monitoring vital signs
• Helping with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Assisting with mobility and transfers
• Providing emotional support to patients and their families
• Documenting patient information and observations

ACNAs play a crucial role in the healthcare team, ensuring that patients receive the care and attention they need during their most vulnerable moments.

Training Requirements

Tobecome an ACNA in North Carolina, 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:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Infection control
• Basic nursing skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Patient rights and privacy

The ACNA training program length must be at least 75 hours in length, with at least 16 hours of supervised clinical experience. Upon completion, you'll need to pass a competency evaluation exam to earn your ACNA certification.

How Quickly Can You Become an ACNA in Charlotte?

The fastest way to become an ACNA in Charlotte is to enroll in an accelerated training program. These programs are designed to help you complete the required coursework and clinical hours in a shorter timeframe, often in just a few weeks or months.

One example of an accelerated ACNA program in Charlotte is offered by Central Piedmont Community College. Their program is 6 weeks long and includes 120 hours of instruction, covering both classroom and clinical components. Upon successful completion, you'll be eligible to take the state competency exam and become a certified ACNA.

ACNA Classes in Charlotte

Charlotte offers a variety of ACNA classes to choose from, both in-person and online. Here are a few examples:

Central Piedmont Community College

• Length: 6 weeks
• Price: $180 (in-state), $340 (out-of-state)
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, criminal background check, drug screening
• Overview: CPCC's ACNA program provides comprehensive training in a condensed format, preparing students for the state competency exam. The program includes 120 hours of instruction, with a mix of classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience.

Carolinas College of Health Sciences

• Length: 8 weeks
• Price: $1,100
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, criminal background check, drug screening
• Overview: Carolinas College of Health Sciences offers a well-rounded ACNA program that covers a wide range of nursing assistant skills. The program includes 120 hours of instruction, with a focus on providing high-quality patient care in acute care settings.

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences

• Length: 4 weeks
• Price: $600
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, criminal background check, drug screening
• Overview: Cabarrus College's ACNA program is designed to be completed in a shorter timeframe, allowing students to enter the workforce quickly. The program includes 120 hours of instruction, with a mix of classroom learning and clinical experience.

Exploring a Career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Charlotte

For anyone looking to become an ACNA but is in a different state, your opportunity to work as an ACNA might be found in Bridgeport, Greenville, Miami, Provo, or Syracuse. Should these not be viable options, Dreambound eases the process of discovering and comparing ACNA classes with a zip code-based search. With the drive to succeed and the support of resources like Dreambound, anyone can forge a successful path in healthcare, no matter where they are.

Online ACNA Classes in Charlotte

For those who prefer a more flexible learning option, there are also online ACNA classes available in the Charlotte area. One example is the online ACNA program offered by Central Piedmont Community College. This program allows students to complete the majority of the coursework online, with a limited number of in-person clinical hours required.

Free ACNA Classes in Charlotte

While most ACNA programs in Charlotte do come with a cost, there are a few free options available for those who qualify. One example is the Mecklenburg County Workforce Development program, which offers free ACNA training to eligible participants. To qualify, individuals must meet certain income and employment status requirements.

The Certification Process

After completing an ACNA training program in North Carolina, the next step is to pass the state competency exam. This exam consists of both a written and a skills-based component, and covers the knowledge and skills acquired during the training program.

Once you pass the exam, you'll be added to the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry, which allows you to work as an ACNA in the state. Your certification is valid for two years, and must be renewed through continuing education and competency evaluations.

The Job Environment for ACNAs in Charlotte

Charlotte is a thriving healthcare hub, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities that employ ACNAs. Some of the potential employers for ACNAs in the Charlotte area include:

• Atrium Health
• Novant Health
• Carolinas HealthCare System
• Veterans Affairs Medical Center
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Assisted living communities

As the population of Charlotte continues to grow, the demand for qualified healthcare professionals, including ACNAs, is expected to increase. This can translate to a stable and rewarding job environment for those who choose to pursue this career path.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Charlotte can be a great way to start a career in the healthcare industry. With a variety of ACNA classes available, both in-person and online, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a fast-paced program or a more flexible learning experience, there's an ACNA class in Charlotte that can help you get started on this rewarding career path.

Dreambound offers a window into various career paths, so if you're considering a shift in your career, browse through these articles:

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