What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Patient Care Technician (PCT), is a healthcare professional who provides basic care and support to patients in acute care settings, such as hospitals, emergency rooms, and intensive care units. Their responsibilities may include assisting patients with daily living activities, 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 Denver, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically consist of a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training, covering topics such as patient care, infection control, and medical terminology. The training can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to complete, depending on the program.

Becoming an ACNA in Denver

The fastest way to become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Denver is to enroll in an accelerated training program. These programs are designed to provide the necessary training and certification in a shorter timeframe, often within 4-6 weeks. However, it's important to note that the training requirements and program lengths may vary depending on the specific school or institution.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant Classes in Denver

Here are some examples of Acute Care Nursing Assistant classes available in the Denver area:

Denver Community College

• Length: 6 weeks
• Price: $1,200
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and immunizations
• Overview: This program provides comprehensive training in patient care, including hands-on clinical experience in a healthcare setting. Upon completion, students will be eligible to take the state certification exam.

Front Range Community College

• Length: 8 weeks
• Price: $1,500
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and immunizations
• Overview: This ACNA program combines classroom instruction with clinical rotations, preparing students for a career in acute care settings. The program includes training in patient safety, infection control, and communication.

Colorado Institute of Health and Wellness

• Length: 4 weeks
• Price: $800
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and immunizations
• Overview: This accelerated ACNA program is designed to help students quickly acquire the skills and knowledge needed to become a certified nursing assistant. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.

Exploring a Career in Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Denver

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 Baltimore, Detroit, Miami, San Antonio, or Toledo. 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

In addition to the in-person ACNA classes in Denver, there are also online options available for those who prefer a more flexible learning experience. These online programs typically provide the same curriculum as the in-person classes, with the added convenience of being able to complete the coursework at your own pace.

While there are no completely free ACNA programs in Denver, some schools and organizations may offer financial assistance or scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition. It's always a good idea to research and explore all available options to find the most affordable ACNA training program that fits your needs.

Certification Process

After completing an ACNA training program in Denver, the next step is to obtain your state certification. This typically involves passing a written exam and a skills assessment test. Once you've successfully passed these exams, you'll be eligible to apply for your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Patient Care Technician (PCT) certification, which is required to work as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Colorado.

Job Environment in Denver

The job outlook for Acute Care Nursing Assistants in Denver is quite promising. As the city's population continues to grow and the demand for healthcare services increases, there is a high demand for skilled ACNA professionals. Potential employers for Acute Care Nursing Assistants in Denver include:

• UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital
• Denver Health Medical Center
• Children's Hospital Colorado
• Centura Health Hospitals
• Kaiser Permanente Colorado

These healthcare facilities offer a wide range of opportunities for Acute Care Nursing Assistants, from working in emergency rooms and intensive care units to assisting with patient care in medical-surgical units and long-term care facilities.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Denver can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. With the variety of ACNA classes available in the city, you can find the right program to fit your schedule and budget. Whether you're looking to start a new career or enhance your existing skills, the Acute Care Nursing Assistant training and certification process in Denver can help you achieve your goals and contribute to the city's growing healthcare industry.

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:

• CPR-BLS Training in Denver
• Applied Nutrition Training in Denver
• Caregiver Training in Denver
• CNA Training in Denver
• Chiropractic Assistant Training in Denver