CNA Classes Fort Myers, FL

A review of the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report of professions reveals that health care maintains its lead in the labor market sector, employing millions of new health care workers each year. The trend is not expected to decrease as the aging population increases the demand for experienced health care workers. Forming a significant part of the health care workforce, Certified Nursing Assistants provide direct patient care in acute care and long-term care facilities. They bathe, feed, and dress patients, and assist with mobility. They set up medical equipment, answer call lights, assist with simple medical procedures, check vital signs, monitor patients and report changes, and provide physical and social support. Since CNAs spend the most time with patients, they must be able to communicate concerns effectively to doctors or nursing, have good observation skills, and perform the physically demanding tasks for eight to twelve hours at a time.

Although the profession has a high turnover rate, more than 80% of CNAs admit they derive a great deal of satisfaction from providing a much-needed service to those who need it. CNA training prepares students to function as capable advocates for residents or patients. One major reason cited for the high turnover rate is the lack of opportunities for advancement. In order to meet their need to advance, many CNAs use their training and experience to gain a competitive advantage while securing a spot in a licensed practical or registered nursing program.

Fort Myers Technical College

Fort Myers Technical College prepares students for a career in health where they work with other professionals to implement a prescribed plan of care. The program’s goal is to help students develop the clinical skills and work ethics to provide bedside care and assist others with the activities of daily living. Graduates are prepared to take the state exam for certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Upon certification, they will qualify for entry-level employment in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and patients’ homes. The curriculum follows a sequence of courses to support the development of knowledge and technical skills that graduates will use in the profession and also serve as the foundation for further education and careers in health care. The course content includes communication and interpersonal skills, legal and ethical responsibilities, gerontology, medical terminology, health and safety, CPR certification, pet-facilitated therapy, nutrition, and employability skills. Students also develop proficiency in critical thinking, problem solving, work attitude, and high order reasoning. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Applicants must be 17 years or older or a high school graduate by the first day of class, immunized against hepatitis B or present a signed declination statement, and complete a two-step TB test. A drug screen and level 2 background screen are also required to participate in the clinical experience. A TABE test may be required for non-high school graduates. Interested persons must attend an information session before applying to the program. Tuition for the 120-hour program is $1,015.

Horizon Healthcare Institute

Graduates of the Nursing Assistant Certificate program at Horizon Healthcare Institute are eligible to sit the state certification exam and provide bedside care to patients or residents in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, physicians’ offices, and patients’ homes. The curriculum includes classroom lectures, demonstrations, and seminars to cover the knowledge part of the programs. Hands-on training in the school’s lab and a supervised clinical experience at a long-term care facility provide opportunities for students to develop the clinical skills to succeed on the job. Areas of study include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, communication and interpersonal relationships, nutrition, CPR, infection control, vital signs, safety and emergency procedures, and basic nursing skills. Applicants must be 17 years or older and have a high school diploma or GED certificate and a social security card. Applicants who do not have a high school diploma or GED must take the TABE for admission. HHI is a state approved testing center, so graduates have the convenience of taking the test in a familiar environment. Registration costs $100.

Express Training Services

Express Training Services’ state-approved nursing assistant program prepares students for employment as a nursing assistant. Students who successfully complete the 120-hour program will be eligible to sit the state exam for certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. The program may be completed in five weeks and includes classroom lectures and practical learning experiences in the school’s lab and at an off-site facility. Course topics include infection control, vital signs, nutrition and feeding, communication and interpersonal relationship, legal and ethical responsibilities, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient transfers, patient rights and independence, safety and emergency procedures, and much more. Applicants must provide a CPR card or proof of enrollment in a CPR classes, documentation of rubella immunity, a physical exam to demonstrate the ability to lift 50 or more pounds, and a negative TB test. All students must complete a Level 2 background check. No deposit will be accepted until the applicant meets all the prerequisites. The cost of attendance is $1019 and includes registration, the exam registration fee, and tuition. The cost of the textbook is not included.

Crystal G

Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.