CNA Classes Near Me in Valdosta GA 31601

How to Pick a CNA School near Valdosta Georgia

Valdosta GA cna holding babySo you have decided to work as a CNA and enroll in certified nursing assistant training classes near Valdosta GA. As soon as you have attained your certification, you will be starting a gratifying career in one of the most rapidly increasing positions in health care within the United States. Although it may seem like a complicated endeavor, it’s imperative that you pick the best CNA course to receive the proper training and education. Many future students begin with the two most essential qualifications, which are the location of the school and the price of tuition. You may additionally be pondering whether to attend CNA classes on campus, or enroll in an online program and attend them at home. More on that alternative later. But completing your due diligence before choosing a CNA school entails much more than comparing the price or location. Such factors as accreditation and the reputation of the school must similarly be taken into consideration. We will be covering those subjects together with a few other questions that you need to be asking before you enroll in a CNA school. But to start with, let’s discuss a little bit about what a nursing assistant does and the kind of instruction and credentials that are available.

The Job of a Certified Nursing Assistant in Valdosta GA

cna with patient in Valdosta GA nursing homeCertified Nursing Assistants perform many tasks in the Valdosta GA hospitals, clinics and other health care organizations where they are employed. Per their title, CNAs are not licensed by the state but instead are certified. Since they are not licensed, they perform under the direction and oversight of either a licensed LPN or RN. Plus as nursing assistants, their prime job duty is to aid the licensed nurses that they work under. Their responsibilities are many and diverse, and in a hospital environment may include:

  • Furnishing basic services to patients
  • Measuring patient’s vital signs
  • Maintaining a record of patient’s health status
  • Cleaning and dressing patients
  • Serving and assisting patients with meals
  • Transferring patients to other rooms

CNAs can also work in Valdosta GA nursing homes or long term care facilities. In those settings, nursing assistants are more involved in supporting patients with their Activities of Daily Living (ADL). ADLs are defined as routine activities that most people accomplish daily without assistance, for example eating, dressing, or using the restroom. Nursing assistants commonly build more of a bond with these patients since they typically stay in the facilities for extensive periods of time. In many cases, they can end up being the conduit between the patient and the balance of the medical staff because of their relationships with their charges. Because of this, the CNA’s knowledge can be an useful resource for preparing the appropriate care and treatment of long term care patients.

CNA Programs

Unlike many other licensed nurses, certified nursing assistants in Valdosta GA do not need to earn a college degree. CNA instruction can be obtained at a community college or at either a vocational or trade school. The length of the training can take anywhere from just one to three months, resulting in either a certificate or a diploma. Under the 1987 Nursing Home Reform Act, students are required to have at least 75 hours of training, 16 of which have to be clinical or “hands-on” training hours. Bear in mind that this is the minimal amount of instruction directed and that each state has its specific requirements. So it’s necessary to make sure that the course you enroll in not only fulfills the federal requirements, but also those for the state where you will be practicing. One recommendation is to contact the health or nursing board for your state to make sure that the training course is state certified. Along with the training, each state mandates a passing score on a competency test for certification. Depending on the state, there can be additional requirements as well.

Online CNA Programs

attending online cna classes in Valdosta GAEnrolling in CNA programs online is emerging as a more popular way to get training and acquire a nursing credential. Some schools will require attending on campus for part of the training, and nearly all programs call for a specified number of clinical rotation hours conducted in a local Valdosta GA healthcare center. But since the rest of the training can be accessed online, this method may be a more practical answer to finding the time to attend classes for some students. Concerning tuition, some online programs are cheaper than other on campus options. Even other expenses such as for commuting and study materials can be minimized, helping to make education more affordable. And numerous online programs are accredited. And so if your work and household commitments have left you with limited time to work toward your academic goals, maybe an online CNA training program will make it easier to fit an education into your active schedule.

What to Ask CNA Nursing Schools

Now that you have determined which nursing program to pursue, and whether to attend your classes on campus or on the web, you can use the following guidelines to start narrowing down your choices. As you undoubtedly realize, there are numerous CNA schools and colleges throughout Georgia and the United States. So it is important to reduce the number of schools to choose from so that you will have a manageable list. As we earlier discussed, the site of the school relative to Valdosta GA along with the price of tuition are most likely going to be the primary two factors that you will consider. But as we also stressed, they should not be your only qualifiers. So prior to making your ultimate choice, use the following questions to evaluate how your pick measures up to the other schools.

Is the CNA program accredited?  It’s important that the Valdosta GA school and program that you enroll in is accredited.  One of the more highly regarded accrediting authorities is the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).  CNA schools and programs that have been accredited by the NLNAC are guaranteed to not only provide a quality education but to be state approved as well.  Earning a certificate or diploma from an accredited school is also more likely to be credited towards a more advanced nursing degree at another accredited school.  And finally, accreditation makes your training more valuable in the job market.

Is the CNA course state approved?  Before enrolling in a training course near Valdosta GA, make sure that it complies with the certification requirements for Georgia or the state where you will be practicing.  It should not only satisfy the minimum federal requirement of 75 hours, 16 of which must be clinical training, but any additional state requirements as well.  As previously mentioned, if the CNA course is accredited by NLNAC it will be guaranteed to be state approved.

What is the Pass Rate for the State Exam?  It’s preferable to enroll in a nursing assistant school near Valdosta GA with a pass rate for the state licensing exam of at least 75% for its graduates.  If fewer than 75% are passing, it may be an indication that the curriculum and/or the instructors are not effectively training the students.  Georgia posts a list of state CNA schools with their state licensing exam pass rates.

Is there an Internship Program?  Find out if the schools you are considering sponsor internships with Valdosta GA healthcare facilities.  They are a great way to get hands-on clinical experience not available in a classroom or lab setting.  As an additional benefit, they can help students establish relationships within the local medical community.  They also look good on resumes.  Also check to see if tutoring is available as needed.  Other options may include an internet school forum or chat room where students can ask questions and share knowledge.

Is there a Job Placement Program?  A job placement program can be of great assistance to a graduating student in finding that first nursing position.  Find out how many students are being placed in jobs with the assistance of the school.  If a school has a high job placement rate, it’s a confirmation that its reputation within the Valdosta GA medical community is exemplary.  It also confirms that the school has a broad network of contacts to assist students gain internships or employment after graduation.

Where is the school located?  The campus will need to be within driving distance of your Valdosta GA residence unless you are able to relocate.  If you enroll in an online program, find out where the clinical portion of your training is available.  If a school has an internship program, most likely the placements will be within its local area.  Also keep in mind that if you enroll in an out-of-state school, or even out of area for many community colleges, the tuition costs as a non-resident may be higher.

How large are the classes?  Ask the schools you are considering on average how large their classes are.  Smaller classes usually provide more access to teachers when students have questions or need extra help.  In contrast, larger classes tend to be more impersonal and limit one-on-one instruction.  If practical, find out if you can monitor a couple of the classes before enrolling so that you can experience the level of interaction between students and instructors.

What is the Program’s total cost?  CNA training and tuition can vary not only among schools, but from state to state depending on certification requirements.  In addition to tuition, there are other costs such as commuting expenses, textbooks and other materials.  When comparing schools remember to include all costs required for your education.  If you do decide to attend an online school, some of the expenses may be reduced.  Most schools have financial aid departments, so be sure to find out what is available in the Valdosta GA area.

Can the Program accommodate your Schedule?  Finally, you will need to make sure that the program you select offers classes at a time that you can attend.  If you are still working and need to attend classes at night or on weekends near Valdosta GA, make sure they are available.  If you can only attend part-time, make sure that is an option as well.  Even if you have decided to attend classes online, you will still need to confirm when clinical training hours are offered.  Also, find out what the policy is for making up classes should you miss any due to work, illness or other obligations.

Considering CNA Classes near Valdosta GA?

Valdosta, Georgia

Valdosta is a city in and the county seat of Lowndes County, located on the southern border of Georgia, United States. As of 2013, Valdosta has a total population of 56,481,[5] and is the 14th largest city in Georgia.[6]

Valdosta is the home of Valdosta State University, a regional university in the University System of Georgia with over 10,900 students.[8] The local public Valdosta High School has the most winning football program of any high school in the United States.[9]

Valdosta was incorporated on December 7, 1860, when it was designated by the state legislature as the new county seat, formerly at nearby Troupville. The railroad was built to Valdosta that year, rather than Troupville, stimulating development in the new county seat.[10] Many citizens of Troupville had already relocated to Valdosta when the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad was built four miles (about 6 km) away. On July 4, 1860, the engine known as Satilla No. 3 pulled the first train into Valdosta on the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad.

The location could not be found.

Pick the Right CNA Course near Valdosta GA

Enrolling in the best certified nursing assistant degree program is arguably the most crucial first step to launching a new career in the health care field. There are a number of factors that you must think about when deciding on a nursing school. These factors will be prioritized differently depending on your current career goals, lifestyle, and financial situation. As we have pointed out in this post, it is critical that you pick a CNA school and program that are each accredited and have excellent reputations within the health care community. By utilizing our checklist of qualifying questions, you will be able to create a shortlist of schools to select from so that you can make your ultimate selection. And with the right training, combined with your dedication and desire to succeed, you can become a CNA in Valdosta GA.

Other Cool Cities in Georgia

  • CNA Classes Near Me in Pendergrass GA 30567
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Union City GA 30291
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Buchanan GA 30113
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Edison GA 31746
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Nashville GA 31639
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Douglasville GA 30133
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Rutledge GA 30663
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Cusseta GA 31805
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Talbotton GA 31827
  • CNA Classes Near Me in Menlo GA 30731
  •  

     

    Business Results 1 - 10 of 11

    Valdosta Family Medicine
    3 Reviews
    Urgent Care, Family Practice, Pediatricians
    Phone:
    2412 N Oak St, Valdosta, GA 31602

    South Georgia Medical Center
    9 Reviews
    Medical Centers, Urologists, Orthopedists
    Phone:
    2501 N Patterson St, Valdosta, GA 31602

    Smith Northview Hospital Lab
    1 Reviews
    Hospitals
    Phone:
    Valdosta, GA 31604

    SGMC Smith Northview Campus
    3 Reviews
    Family Practice, Hospitals
    Phone:
    4280 N Valdosta Rd, Valdosta, GA 31604

    Chiang, Mike S MD
    3 Reviews
    Urologists
    Phone:
    3294 N Oak Street Ext, Valdosta, GA 31605

    Evans Glenn H MD
    1 Reviews
    Internal Medicine, Cardiologists
    Phone:
    3207 Country Club Rd, Valdosta, GA 31605

    Pruitthealth - Valdosta
    1 Reviews
    Physical Therapy, Retirement Homes
    Phone:
    2501 N Ashley St, Valdosta, GA 31602

    Southern OB-Gyn Associates PC
    2 Reviews
    Doctors
    Phone:
    2704 N Oak St, Valdosta, GA 31602

    Valdosta Women's Health Center PC
    1 Reviews
    Obstetricians & Gynecologists
    Phone:
    3811 Old Us41 N, Valdosta, GA 31604

    Greenleaf
    1 Reviews
    Psychiatrists
    Phone:
    2217 Pineview Dr, Valdosta, GA 31602