Start your free CNA training now and become a certified nursing assistant!

Start your free CNA training now and become a certified nursing assistant!

As the elderly population in the United States continues to grow, the demand for healthcare professionals, especially Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), is on the rise. According to incomplete statistics, the highest salary after obtaining CNA certification in the United States is as high as $106,000. St. Joseph/Candler has partnered with Savannah Technical College to offer two accelerated apprenticeship programs designed to provide an ideal opportunity for those looking to start their career in healthcare.

Dr. Kathy Love, Dean of Savannah Technical College, stated, "We recognize the tremendous need for healthcare workers, and we are excited to partner with St. Joseph/Candler to provide this accelerated healthcare training."

This program not only allows students to learn for free but also offers competitive pay and full-time benefits.

· Overview of the CNA Accelerated Program

Potential students will apply simultaneously for CNA and Patient Care Technician (PCT) positions at St. Joseph/Candler and Savannah Technical College.

CNA Accelerated Program

Successful applicants will work part-time at SJ/C while attending classes at Savannah Technical College for an eight-week course. SJ/C will cover your tuition and fees, and a hiring agreement will ensure you work at SJ/C for one year.

Salary: During this program, you will work 40 hours per week at a pay rate of $14 per hour. After completing the program, your pay will increase to $14.72, and it will rise to $15.01 after the first year.

You must pass a background check and drug screening, and be accepted by Savannah Technical College. After completing the Nurse Aide program, you will receive a Nurse Aide Accelerated TCC certification and be eligible to take the CNA exam.

CNA Course Overview

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course at St. Joseph/Candler is designed to equip students with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to succeed in a healthcare environment. The course typically lasts eight weeks and covers comprehensive nursing topics to ensure students can effectively meet patient needs.

Course Content

Basic Care Skills:

1.Theoretical learning includes fundamental patient care needs, such as personal hygiene, dietary support, and assistance with activities.

2.Students will learn how to safely assist patients with bathing, dressing, and toileting.

First Aid and Safety Knowledge:

1.Students will receive training in first aid, including how to handle common emergencies like CPR and bleeding control.

2.Emphasis on patient safety to prevent falls and other accidents.

Communication Skills:

1.Learning effective communication techniques to interact with patients, families, and healthcare teams.

2.Understanding the importance of patient privacy and how to maintain dignity during care.

Clinical Practice:

1.The course includes clinical internships where students will practice under the guidance of experienced nursing staff.

2.Students will gain hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.

Regulations and Ethics:

1.Introduction to healthcare-related regulations, ethics, and professional standards.

2.Emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of nursing assistants in patient care.

· Course Schedule

Class Time: The course is generally full-time, and students are required to participate in all classroom learning and practical sessions.

Combination of Theory and Practice: The curriculum integrates theoretical study with clinical practice, ensuring students acquire the necessary skills in a short time.

Assessment and Certification: At the end of the course, students must take and pass the CNA certification exam to earn their certification.

· Support and Resources

Tuition Assistance: St. Joseph/Candler will pay for tuition and fees at Savannah Technical College, providing students with a debt-free learning opportunity.

Career Guidance: Job support, including resume writing and interview skills training, is offered to help students transition smoothly into the workforce.

Follow-Up Support: After completing the CNA course, students will have the opportunity to continue their education and participate in PCT (Patient Care Technician) training to further enhance their skills.

· pplication Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent.

Basic English reading and writing skills to understand course material and communicate with patients.

Must pass a background check and drug screening.

Becoming a CNA is a crucial stepping stone into other healthcare fields, especially nursing. It teaches you how to interact with patients and opens the door to the healthcare profession, helping you determine if it’s the right career choice for you. CNA is the first step towards becoming a PCT, and once you’ve obtained your CNA certification, you can pursue further courses and apply for PCT positions.

· Application Process

For interested students, the application process includes submitting applications to both St. Joseph/Candler (SJ/C) and Savannah Technical College (Savannah Technical College). Here are the detailed steps:

· Submit Applications:

-Visit the St. Joseph/Candler website at https://www.sjchs.org/ to apply for CNA or PCT positions.

-Simultaneously visit the Savannah Technical College website at https://www.savannahtech.edu/ to apply for the course.

· Background Check and Drug Screening:

-All successful applicants must pass a background check and drug screening. This is an essential step to ensure all students meet healthcare industry standards.

· Complete CNA Course:

-Once accepted, students will participate in the eight-week CNA course to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills, after which they can obtain their CNA certification.

· Apply for Patient Care Technician Apprenticeship Program:

-After completing the CNA course, students are eligible to apply for SJ/C’s Patient Care Technician apprenticeship program to further enhance their skills and career opportunities.

Make sure to stay in touch during the application process to receive the latest updates and progress.

The free CNA program at St. Joseph/Candler is not only a gateway into the nursing industry but also an excellent opportunity for career advancement. If you aspire to pursue financial independence in a stable and promising field, this apprenticeship program will open the door to a brighter future. Join the nursing industry and realize your career dreams!