What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Nursing Assistant-Registered (NA-R), 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 to provide essential care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.

Training Requirements and Becoming an ACNA in Spokane

To become an ACNA in Spokane, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program that covers topics such as patient care, infection control, and basic nursing skills. The training program typically takes between 4 to 8 weeks to complete, depending on the specific program.

In Spokane, the fastest way to become an ACNA is to enroll in an accelerated program that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. These programs are designed to provide the necessary training and prepare you for the state certification exam, which is required to work as an ACNA in Washington.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant Classes in Spokane

Here are some examples of ACNA classes near you in Spokane:

Spokane Community College

This college offers a 5-week ACNA program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. The program costs approximately $650 and is offered several times throughout the year.

Spokane Tech

Spokane Tech's ACNA program is 4 weeks long and costs around $800. The program includes a combination of classroom learning and clinical experience in a healthcare setting.

Spokane Valley Tech

Located just east of Spokane, Spokane Valley Tech offers a 6-week ACNA program that costs approximately $900. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum and prepares students for the state certification exam.

Inland Northwest Health Services (INHS)

INHS is a healthcare organization that offers an ACNA training program in Spokane. The program is 5 weeks long and costs around $700, including the cost of the state certification exam.

Each of these programs covers the necessary training and skills required to become an ACNA, and upon completion, students are eligible to take the state certification exam.

Exploring a Career in Acute Care Nursing Assistant Outside Spokane

If you're eager to start a career as an ACNA but are situated in a different state, don't be discouraged. Your opportunity to work as an ACNA might be found in,,,, San Francisco. If you don't live near these areas, Dreambound offers a straightforward solution to scout and compare ACNA classes by searching with your zip code. No matter where you live, with dedication and the right resources, carving out a career in healthcare is within your reach.

Online and Free ACNA Options in Spokane

While in-person ACNA classes are the most common option in Spokane, there are also some online and free opportunities available:

Online Options

• Spokane Community College offers an online ACNA program that can be completed entirely through distance learning.
• Spokane Tech also has an online ACNA program that allows students to learn at their own pace.

Free Options

• The Spokane Workforce Center occasionally offers free ACNA training programs for eligible individuals, such as those who are unemployed or underemployed.
• Some local healthcare organizations, such as INHS, may provide free or low-cost ACNA training programs for individuals interested in pursuing a career in healthcare.

The Certification Process

After completing an ACNA training program in Spokane, the next step is to pass the state certification exam. This exam tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as patient care, infection control, and communication. Once you pass the exam, you'll be certified as an ACNA and can begin working in healthcare settings throughout the state of Washington.

The Job Environment for ACNAs in Spokane

Spokane is home to several major healthcare providers that employ ACNAs, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, MultiCare Deaconess Hospital, and Holy Family Hospital. ACNAs in Spokane can also find employment in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies.

The job outlook for ACNAs in Spokane is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 4% growth in employment for nursing assistants nationwide between 2022 and 2032. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services as the population ages.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant in Spokane can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. With several training options available, both in-person and online, as well as the potential for free or low-cost programs, there are ample opportunities for individuals in Spokane to begin their journey toward a healthcare career. By completing an ACNA training program and obtaining your certification, you can start making a difference in the lives of patients in your local community.

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