What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Nursing Assistant (NA), is a healthcare professional who provides basic care and support to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. Their duties may include tasks such as assisting patients with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, and reporting any changes in a patient's condition to registered nurses or other healthcare providers.

Training Requirements

To become an ACNA in Little Rock, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, and they cover topics such as patient care, infection control, and communication skills. The training program can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to complete, depending on the specific program and the number of hours required.

Becoming an ACNA in Little Rock

The fastest way to become an ACNA in Little Rock is to enroll in a full-time, accelerated training program. These programs can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, and they provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to pass the state certification exam and begin working as an ACNA.

ACNA Classes in Little Rock

Here are a few examples of ACNA classes and training programs available in Little Rock:

Arkansas State University-Beebe

• Length: 6 weeks
• Cost: $650
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, drug screening
• Overview: This program provides students with 120 hours of classroom and clinical instruction, covering topics such as patient care, infection control, and communication. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the state certification exam.

Pulaski Technical College

• Length: 8 weeks
• Cost: $800
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, drug screening
• Overview: This program offers a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for the state certification exam. The program also includes training in basic nursing skills, such as taking vital signs and assisting with activities of daily living.

Baptist Health College Little Rock

• Length: 4 weeks
• Cost: $1,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, drug screening
• Overview: This accelerated ACNA program is designed to help students become certified in a shorter amount of time. The program includes 120 hours of instruction, with a focus on providing hands-on clinical experience in a hospital setting.

Exploring a Career in Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Little Rock

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 Baltimore, Colorado Springs, Minneapolis, Oxnard, or Virginia Beach. 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 Options

In addition to the in-person ACNA classes in Little Rock, there are also online and free options available for those interested in becoming an ACNA.

Online ACNA programs are a convenient option for students who need more flexibility in their schedules. These programs typically include a combination of online coursework and hands-on clinical experience at a local healthcare facility.

While there are no free ACNA training programs in Little Rock, some organizations may offer scholarships or financial assistance to help cover the cost of tuition. Additionally, some healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes or hospitals, may provide on-the-job training for ACNA candidates.

Certification Process

To become a certified ACNA in Arkansas, you'll need to pass a state-approved certification exam. This exam consists of a written portion and a skills demonstration portion, which tests your knowledge and ability to perform essential ACNA tasks.

Once you've passed the certification exam, you'll be registered with the Arkansas Department of Health as a Certified Nursing Assistant. This certification is valid for two years, and you'll need to renew it by completing continuing education requirements and passing a recertification exam.

Job Environment in Little Rock

As an ACNA in Little Rock, you'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Acute care nursing assistants are in high demand in the city, as the population continues to age and the need for healthcare services increases.

Some of the potential employers for ACNAs in Little Rock include:

• UAMS Medical Center
• Baptist Health Medical Center
• CHI St. Vincent Infirmary
• Arkansas Continued Care Hospital
• Woodland Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
• Parkway Village Retirement Community

The job environment for ACNAs in Little Rock can be fast-paced and demanding, but also rewarding. You'll have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your patients, and to work as part of a dedicated healthcare team.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Little Rock, there are plenty of options available to help you get started. Whether you choose an accelerated in-person program, an online course, or a combination of both, you'll be on your way to a rewarding career in healthcare. With the right training and certification, you can become an ACNA near you in Little Rock and make a meaningful difference in the lives of your patients.

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