CNA Classes Missoula, MT

Certified nursing assistants fulfill many roles in the health care system — hospital, hospice, long-term care, and home health. The job outlook for CNAs is 11 percent between 2016 and 2026, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. The biggest driver of the current demand is the tremendous growth in the aging population. Seniors need and use more health care services as many of them suffer from one or more chronic illnesses. Montana, in particular, is said to have one of the oldest population, so demand is greater than most other states. Nursing assistant training programs help produce professionals who are capable of meeting the existing demands. The short-term training prepares adults for a career in health in just three to six weeks. Persons interested in a career in nursing might first complete nurse aide training to test the waters before committing themselves to years of study. Training and experience as a nurse aide are also beneficial for improving their chances of enrolling in competitive nursing programs. To improve and save the lives of patients as a nursing assistant, you must be attentive to detail, honest, dependable, cooperative, empathetic, and flexible.

Missoula College

The CNA training at Missoula College Outreach is a non-credit course that prepares students to provide direct patient care under the direction of a licensed nurse. The program is offered several times a year. A combination of theory and clinical study provides the necessary skills and knowledge needed to pass the Montana Department of Health CNA certification exam. Students learn the basics to meet the role of the CNA, including bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, feeding, lifting, and positioning. Other areas of study include law and ethics, nutrition and feeding, the role and responsibilities of a nurse aide, Alzheimer’s care, rehabilitation and restorative techniques, and hospice care. Upon completion of the training, students will be scheduled for the Competency Exam – approximately three weeks after completing the course.

Admission criteria:

  • Complete the required immunizations (two MMR shots, proof of tetanus vaccination (TDap), TB test results
  • Criminal background check
  • Submit a completed application

Tuition for the program is $850. The cost of scrubs, immunization and background check are not included in the cost of the program. The fee for the Montana Nurse Aide exam is included in the cost.

Montana Tech

Montana Tech offers a 14/15-credit Nurse Aide Certificate program in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Students can complete the program in one semester. Since space is limited, students are accepted on a first-come/first serve basis. Graduates are eligible to apply for certification through the Department of Health. Students will learn the basic client care skills that will enable them to provide direct care under the supervision of a licensed nurse. Students learn basic body structure and function, the fundamentals of skills of client care, the role of the nurse assistant as it relates to communication, professionalism, empathy, accountability, and interaction with the client and the health care team. A grade C or higher is essential for progressing through the NA program. Students who earn a grade less than C must withdraw from the program but may apply for re-entry at a later date. There are no prerequisites or formal process for application. However, interested persons must be familiar with the Health Program Department policies. These include good physical health, an adequate understanding of the English language to communicate with clients, staff, and families, visual acuity to read fine print with or without corrective lenses, and adequate hearing.

Admission criteria:

  • Meet the minimum academic requirements
  • TB clearance
  • Hepatitis B vaccination (series of three injections)

Completing the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program. Students who complete the Nursing Fundamentals I class will be qualified to take the Montana Headmasters exam for certified nurse aides.

The Lifelong Learning Center MCPS Adult Education

The Certified Nursing Assistant at The Lifelong Learning Center prepares students for a career as a nurse aide. The program includes instruction in the classroom and off-site clinical. Experienced instructors cover courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, vital signs, nutrition and feeding, communication and interpersonal relationships, personal care and grooming, safety and emergency procedures, infection control, rehabilitation, and hospice care. The clinical experience is an essential part of the training as it gives students the opportunity to participate in direct patient care experiences under the direction of a licensed nurse. The program includes CPR training and certification.

Admission criteria:

  • Current TABE test results or 12 passing college credits
  • Current immunization records – Tdap, MMR, TB, Hep B
  • A criminal background check

Tuition for the program is $525 and does not include textbook and the cost of the Montana Department of Health CNA certification exam.

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.