What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who assists patients with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to provide essential care to patients in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.

Training Requirements

To become a CNA in Des Moines, individuals must complete a state-approved training program, which typically lasts between 75 to 120 hours. The training program covers topics such as patient rights, infection control, personal care, and basic nursing skills. Upon completing the training, students must pass a competency exam to obtain their CNA certification.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a CNA in Des Moines?

The fastest someone can become a CNA in Des Moines is by enrolling in an accelerated CNA training program. These programs are designed to provide the necessary training and certification in a shorter timeframe, often within 2-4 weeks. However, it's important to note that the quality of the training and the ability to pass the competency exam may be affected by the accelerated nature of these programs.

CNA Classes in Des Moines

Des Moines offers several options for CNA training programs, each with its own unique features and requirements. Here are a few examples:

Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)

• Length: 75 hours
• Price: $650
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and immunizations
• Overview: DMACC's CNA program provides comprehensive training in a classroom and clinical setting, preparing students for the state competency exam.

Mercy College of Health Sciences

• Length: 120 hours
• Price: $1,200
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and immunizations
• Overview: Mercy College of Health Sciences offers a rigorous CNA program that combines classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical experience to ensure students are well-prepared for the certification exam.

Iowa Methodist Medical Center

• Length: 90 hours
• Price: $600
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and immunizations
• Overview: Iowa Methodist Medical Center's CNA program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a variety of healthcare settings, with a strong focus on clinical experience.

Exploring a Career in CNA Outside Des Moines

For anyone looking to become a CNA but is in a different state, your opportunity to work as a CNA might be found in Albuquerque, Houston, Louisville/Jefferson County, Raleigh, Scranton. Should these not be viable options, Dreambound eases the process of discovering and comparing CNA classes with a zip code-based search. With the drive to succeed and the support of resources like Dreambound, anyone can forge a successful path in healthcare, no matter where they are.

Online CNA Classes in Des Moines

In addition to traditional in-person CNA classes, Des Moines also offers online CNA training options. These programs allow students to complete the theoretical portion of the training online, while still requiring hands-on clinical experience in a healthcare setting.

One example of an online CNA program in Des Moines is offered by Iowa Western Community College. The program consists of 75 hours of online instruction and 45 hours of clinical training, with a total cost of $650.

Free CNA Classes in Des Moines

For those with financial constraints, Des Moines also offers free CNA training programs. These programs are typically funded by government grants or healthcare organizations and are designed to provide access to CNA education for underserved communities.

One such program is offered by Broadlawns Medical Center, a public hospital in Des Moines. The program provides free CNA training, including all textbooks and supplies, and covers the cost of the state competency exam.

The CNA Certification Process

After completing a CNA training program in Des Moines, students must pass the state competency exam to obtain their CNA certification. The exam consists of a written portion and a skills demonstration, which assess the student's knowledge and ability to perform essential nursing assistant tasks.

Once certified, CNAs must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements and renewing their license periodically, as mandated by the state of Iowa.

The Job Environment for CNAs in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a wide range of employment opportunities for certified nursing assistants. Some of the potential employers for CNAs in the city include:

• Hospitals: UnityPoint Health, MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
• Nursing Homes: Edgewater, Ramsey Village, and Bickford of Des Moines
• Assisted Living Facilities: Edencrest at Riverwoods, Edencrest at Green Meadows, and Edencrest at Siena Hills
• Home Health Agencies: Visiting Angels, Comfort Keepers, and Home Instead Senior Care

CNAs in Des Moines can expect a competitive job market, with a growing demand for their services due to the city's aging population and the expanding healthcare industry.

Final Thoughts

Des Moines is an excellent location for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant. With a variety of CNA training programs, both in-person and online, and the potential for free tuition, aspiring CNAs in the area have ample opportunities to become certified and secure CNA jobs in the city. By exploring the CNA classes near you in Des Moines and understanding the training requirements and job outlook, you can take the first step towards a rewarding career in the healthcare field.

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:

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