What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care in acute care settings, such as hospitals, emergency rooms, and intensive care units. ACNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to assist with a variety of tasks, including monitoring vital signs, administering basic medications, helping with personal care, and supporting the overall well-being of patients.

Training Requirements

To become an ACNA in Los Angeles, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically consist of both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, patient care techniques, and medical terminology. The training program must meet the minimum requirements set by the California Department of Public Health, which include at least 160 hours of instruction.

Becoming an ACNA in Los Angeles

The fastest way to become an ACNA in Los Angeles is to enroll in an accelerated training program. These programs are designed to help students complete the necessary coursework and clinical hours in a shorter timeframe, often in as little as 4-8 weeks. By taking an accelerated ACNA program, you can quickly gain the skills and knowledge needed to start your new career.

ACNA Classes in Los Angeles

There are several ACNA classes available in the Los Angeles area, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are a few examples:

Los Angeles City College

• Length: 8 weeks
• Price: $1,200
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, TB test, background check
• Overview: This ACNA program at Los Angeles City College provides comprehensive training in patient care, medical terminology, and clinical skills. The program includes 160 hours of instruction, with hands-on training in a clinical setting.

Glendale Community College

• Length: 6 weeks
• Price: $900
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, TB test, background check
• Overview: Glendale Community College offers an accelerated ACNA program that covers the essential skills and knowledge needed to become a certified nursing assistant. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

East Los Angeles College

• Length: 6 weeks
• Price: $800
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, TB test, background check
• Overview: East Los Angeles College's ACNA program is designed to prepare students for a career in acute care nursing. The program includes training in patient care, medical terminology, and nursing assistant skills.

Exploring a Career in Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Los Angeles

If you're dreaming of being an ACNA but find yourself in a different state, fear not—your dreams are still achievable. You might find your path to becoming an ACNA in locations such as,,,,. And if these don't match your current location, Dreambound simplifies the journey by helping you easily search and compare ACNA classes using just your zip code. With commitment and the right resources like Dreambound, entering healthcare is possible from anywhere.

Online and Free ACNA Options in Los Angeles

For those who prefer a more flexible learning option or are on a tight budget, there are also online and free ACNA classes available in Los Angeles.

Online ACNA Classes Several online ACNA programs are available for Los Angeles residents, allowing you to complete the coursework at your own pace. These programs typically include virtual lectures, interactive simulations, and remote clinical experiences.

Free ACNA Classes Some community organizations and healthcare providers in Los Angeles offer free ACNA training programs. These programs may be funded by grants or government initiatives and can be a great option for those with limited financial resources.

Certification Process

After completing an ACNA training program in Los Angeles, the next step is to obtain your certification. In California, this involves passing the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam, which tests your knowledge and skills in patient care. Once you pass the exam, you'll be eligible to apply for your CNA license and begin your career as an ACNA.

Job Environment for ACNAs in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a thriving hub for the healthcare industry, offering a wide range of job opportunities for Acute Care Nursing Assistants. ACNAs in Los Angeles can find employment in various settings, including:

• Hospitals: Major medical centers like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCLA Medical Center, and Keck Medicine of USC employ ACNAs to provide direct patient care.
• Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: Facilities like Silverado Senior Living and Brookdale Senior Living have a high demand for skilled ACNAs.
• Rehabilitation Centers: ACNAs are often needed in rehabilitation centers, such as Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare and Centinela Hospital Medical Center.
• Outpatient Clinics: ACNAs can also find work in outpatient clinics, such as those operated by HealthCare Partners and AltaMed Health Services.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Los Angeles is a rewarding career path that offers job security, competitive wages, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. With a variety of ACNA classes near you, including accelerated, online, and free options, there are ample opportunities to start your journey towards this fulfilling healthcare profession. By completing the necessary training and certification, you can unlock a wide range of job prospects in the thriving healthcare industry of Los Angeles.

If you're thinking of a new career path, Dreambound offers in-depth guides to understand various job choices:

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