What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is a healthcare professional who assists patients with their daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. They work under the supervision of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, providing essential care to patients in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities.

Training Requirements

To become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Richmond, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically last between 4-12 weeks and cover topics such as patient care, medical terminology, and infection control. Upon completion of the training, you'll need to pass a state-administered exam to earn your Certified Nursing Assistant certification.

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Richmond

The fastest way to become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Richmond is to enroll in a full-time training program. Many local colleges and vocational schools offer these programs, with classes starting throughout the year. Depending on the program, you can complete your training and earn your certification in as little as 4 weeks.

Examples of Acute Care Nursing Assistant Classes in Richmond

John Tyler Community College

• Length: 5 weeks
• Price: $1,200
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: This program provides comprehensive training in patient care, including hands-on clinical experience in a healthcare setting. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the state certification exam.

Reynolds Community College

• Length: 6 weeks
• Price: $1,500
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: This program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, and nursing skills. Students will participate in both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.

Henrico County Technical Center

• Length: 8 weeks
• Price: $800
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: This program is designed to prepare students for a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical components, with a focus on providing quality patient care.

In addition to these in-person options, there are also online Acute Care Nursing Assistant classes available in Richmond. These programs allow you to complete the theoretical portion of the training at your own pace, with the clinical component typically scheduled on-site.

Exploring a Career in Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Richmond

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 Acute Care Nursing Assistant Classes in Richmond

For those looking for more affordable options, there are a few free Acute Care Nursing Assistant training programs available in Richmond. These programs are often sponsored by local healthcare organizations or community colleges and may have additional eligibility requirements.

One example is the Bon Secours Health System's Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program. This free program is open to Richmond residents who meet certain income and employment status criteria. The training is provided at no cost to the student and includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

The Certification Process

After completing your Acute Care Nursing Assistant training, you'll need to pass the state-administered certification exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. This exam consists of both a written and a practical component, testing your knowledge and skills in providing patient care.

Once you've passed the exam, you'll be officially certified as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and can begin applying for positions in the healthcare industry.

The Job Environment in Richmond

Richmond's healthcare industry is thriving, with a variety of employers seeking qualified Acute Care Nursing Assistants. Some of the potential employers for Acute Care Nursing Assistants in Richmond include:

• Bon Secours Richmond Health System
• VCU Health System
• HCA Virginia Health System
• Sentara Healthcare
• Riverside Regional Medical Center
• Chippenham Hospital
• HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital

These healthcare facilities offer a range of opportunities for Acute Care Nursing Assistants, from working in hospitals and nursing homes to providing care in rehabilitation centers and long-term care facilities.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Richmond, there are numerous options available to you. Whether you choose to enroll in a full-time training program, explore online classes, or take advantage of a free program, the city offers a variety of pathways to help you achieve your career goals. 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.

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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