What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Patient Care Technician or Nursing Assistant, is a healthcare professional who provides essential support to registered nurses and other medical staff in a hospital or acute care setting. Their primary responsibilities include assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, as well as monitoring vital signs, collecting samples, and performing basic medical procedures under the supervision of a licensed nurse.

Training Requirements

To become an ACNA in Chicago, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program, which typically includes a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The training program must meet the minimum requirements set by the Illinois Department of Public Health, which include a minimum of 120 hours of instruction, including at least 40 hours of supervised clinical training.

Becoming an ACNA in Chicago

The fastest way to become an ACNA in Chicago is to enroll in an accelerated training program. These programs are designed to prepare students for the state certification exam in a shorter timeframe, often in as little as 4-6 weeks. However, it's important to note that the quality of the training and the level of support provided may vary, so it's essential to research your options carefully.

ACNA Classes in Chicago

Chicago offers a wide range of ACNA classes to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are a few examples:

1. Chicago Career Institute: This school offers a 6-week ACNA program that includes 120 hours of instruction, including 40 hours of clinical training. The program costs $1,295, and students must have a high school diploma or GED, pass a background check, and complete a physical exam and drug screening.

2. Truman College: Truman College, part of the City Colleges of Chicago, offers a 5-week ACNA program that costs $1,000. The program includes 120 hours of instruction and prepares students for the state certification exam.

3. Oakton Community College: Oakton Community College offers a 6-week ACNA program that costs $1,200. The program includes 120 hours of instruction and hands-on clinical training, and students must have a high school diploma or GED.

4. Malcolm X College: As part of the City Colleges of Chicago, Malcolm X College offers an ACNA program that can be completed in 6 weeks. The program costs $1,100 and includes 120 hours of instruction and clinical training.

Exploring a Career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Chicago

If you've been reading this article and aspire to become an ACNA, but you reside in a different state, rest assured that achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become an ACNA in Birmingham, Greensboro, Madison, Raleigh, or St. Louis. Don't worry if you haven’t found your location among these, because Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing ACNA classes through a convenient search by zip code. With dedication and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in healthcare, no matter where you live.

Online and Free Options

While there are no fully online ACNA programs available in Chicago, some schools do offer hybrid options that combine online instruction with in-person clinical training. These programs can be a convenient choice for students who need more flexibility in their schedules.

As for free options, there are limited opportunities for free ACNA training in Chicago. However, some community organizations and non-profit groups may offer scholarships or financial assistance to help cover the cost of tuition for eligible students.

Certification Process

After completing an approved ACNA training program in Chicago, the next step is to obtain state certification. In Illinois, this involves passing the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, which consists of a written exam and a skills demonstration. Once you've passed the exam, you'll be added to the Illinois Department of Public Health's Nurse Aide Registry, which allows you to work as an ACNA in the state.

Job Environment in Chicago

Chicago is home to a thriving healthcare industry, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities that employ ACNAs. Some of the potential employers for ACNAs in the city include:

• Northwestern Medicine
• University of Chicago Medicine
• Rush University Medical Center
• AMITA Health
• Advocate Aurora Health
• Sinai Chicago

ACNAs in Chicago can expect to work in a fast-paced, demanding environment, providing essential support to nurses and other medical staff. The job can be physically and emotionally challenging, but it also offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Chicago is a rewarding career path that allows you to make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare industry. With numerous ACNA classes available in the city, ranging from accelerated programs to more traditional options, there are plenty of opportunities to get started on this career path. Whether you're interested in in-person or hybrid training, and regardless of your financial situation, there are options available to help you achieve your goal of becoming an ACNA in Chicago.

If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

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