What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, or ACNA, is a healthcare professional who assists registered nurses and other medical staff in providing basic care to patients in acute care settings, such as hospitals and emergency rooms. ACNAs are responsible for tasks like taking vital signs, helping patients with activities of daily living, and reporting any changes in a patient's condition to the nursing staff.

Training Requirements

To become an ACNA in Connecticut, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. These programs typically take between 4-12 weeks to complete, depending on the specific curriculum and the number of hours required.

Becoming an ACNA in Hartford

The fastest way to become an ACNA in Hartford is to enroll in an accelerated training program. These programs are designed to get you certified and ready to work as quickly as possible, often in as little as 4-6 weeks. However, it's important to note that these programs may have more intensive schedules and require a significant time commitment.

ACNA Classes in Hartford

Here are some examples of ACNA training programs available in the Hartford area:

1. Hartford Community College: Hartford Community College offers a 7-week ACNA training program that includes 120 hours of instruction, including 60 hours of clinical experience. The program costs $1,199 and has a high pass rate on the state certification exam.

2. Capital Community College: Capital Community College in downtown Hartford offers a 4-week ACNA program that includes 100 hours of training, including 40 hours of clinical experience. The program costs $799 and prepares students to take the state certification exam.

3. Goodwin University: Goodwin University in East Hartford has an 8-week ACNA program that includes 120 hours of instruction and 40 hours of clinical experience. The program costs $1,299 and provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pass the state certification exam.

4. Connecticut Nursing and Allied Health: This private vocational school in Hartford offers a 6-week ACNA program that includes 120 hours of training, including 40 hours of clinical experience. The program costs $1,099 and has a high pass rate on the state certification exam.

Exploring a Career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Hartford

If this article has sparked your interest in becoming an ACNA, but you're not in the same state, don't let that hold you back. You have the chance to pursue a career as an ACNA in places like Bakersfield, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, San Bernardino/Riverside, or Spokane. And if none of these locations fit, Dreambound makes it easy for anyone, anywhere, to find and compare ACNA classes just by searching with their zip code. With a bit of determination and the right tools at your disposal, stepping into a successful healthcare career is completely doable, no matter your current location.

Online and Free ACNA Options in Hartford

While there are no fully online ACNA training programs available in Hartford, some schools do offer hybrid options that combine online coursework with in-person clinical experience. Additionally, there are no free ACNA training programs in the Hartford area, as these programs require significant investment in both time and money to provide the necessary instruction and hands-on training.

The Certification Process

To become a certified ACNA in Connecticut, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program and pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (NACE) exam. This exam tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as infection control, patient safety, and basic nursing assistant duties. Once you pass the exam, you'll be added to the state's nurse aide registry and can begin working as an ACNA. The length of your ACNA programs may also vary, so keep this in mind as you go through your certification process.

The Job Environment for ACNAs in Hartford

Hartford is home to a thriving healthcare industry, with several major hospitals and medical centers that employ ACNAs. Some of the potential employers for ACNAs in Hartford include:

• Hartford Hospital
• Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center
• Connecticut Children's Medical Center
• UConn Health
• Trinity Health of New England

ACNAs in Hartford can expect to work in a fast-paced, demanding environment, often caring for patients with acute or critical care needs. The job can be physically and emotionally challenging, but it can also be immensely rewarding for those who enjoy working closely with patients and making a difference in their lives.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming an ACNA in the Hartford area, there are plenty of training opportunities available to help you get started. Whether you choose an accelerated program or a more traditional course, you'll be on your way to a rewarding career in healthcare. With the right training and certification, you can become an essential member of the healthcare team, providing compassionate and skilled care to patients in need.

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