CNA Classes in Kotzebue, Alaska

Kotzebue CNA Training - Alaska

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Kotzebue, AK

If you’re considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Kotzebue, Alaska, you’re embarking on a rewarding path in healthcare. CNAs, also known as nurse aides or nursing assistants, play a crucial role in providing essential care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to become a CNA in Kotzebue, AK, and explore local training programs and employment opportunities.

About Kotzebue

Located in the Northwest Arctic Borough, Kotzebue is a small but vibrant town in Alaska, known for its rich cultural heritage and its proximity to the Chukchi Sea. Kotzebue is a hub for surrounding native villages and offers breathtaking views of the Arctic landscape. The town is home to the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center and the Kotzebue Sound, providing residents and visitors with a unique blend of natural beauty and local history. You can learn more about Kotzebue by visiting the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Kotzebue, AK

While Kotzebue is a smaller community, there are still opportunities to pursue CNA training in the region. Below are some options for CNA programs either in Kotzebue or nearby areas:

1. Northwest Arctic Career and Technical Center (NACTEC)
   • Location: Nome, AK (Approx. 180 miles from Kotzebue)
   • Program Overview: NACTEC offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in healthcare. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Website: NACTEC CNA Program
2. Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC)
   • Location: Seward, AK (Approx. 600 miles from Kotzebue)
   • Program Overview: AVTEC’s CNA course provides comprehensive training, including classroom education and clinical practice. Students are prepared to take the Alaska State CNA certification exam upon completion.
   • Website: AVTEC Nursing Assistant Program
3. University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) – Community and Technical College
   • Location: Fairbanks, AK (Approx. 550 miles from Kotzebue)
   • Program Overview: UAF offers a Nursing Assistant course through its Community and Technical College. The program is designed to meet Alaska’s certification requirements and includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Website: UAF Nursing Assistant Program

While these programs are not located directly in Kotzebue, they provide excellent options for individuals willing to travel or explore distance learning opportunities.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Kotzebue

Kotzebue is home to several healthcare facilities where CNAs can find employment. Below are some of the key employers in the area:

1. Maniilaq Health Center
   • Location: Kotzebue, AK
   • Overview: Maniilaq Health Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility serving the Northwest Arctic Borough. It offers a wide range of services, including inpatient and outpatient care, and is a major employer of healthcare professionals, including CNAs.
   • Website: Maniilaq Health Center Employment
2. Kotzebue Senior Center
   • Location: Kotzebue, AK
   • Overview: The Kotzebue Senior Center provides essential services to the elderly population in the region. CNAs are often needed to assist with daily living activities and personal care for the residents.
   • Website: Kotzebue Senior Center

These healthcare facilities offer excellent opportunities for CNAs to gain experience and grow in their careers in Kotzebue.

CNA Certification Requirements in Alaska

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alaska, you must meet the following state-specific requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: You must complete a CNA training program that is approved by the Alaska Board of Nursing. Programs typically include at least 140 hours of training, divided between classroom instruction and clinical practice.

2. Pass the CNA Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the Alaska CNA competency exam, which includes both a written and skills test.

3. Submit an Application for Certification: Once you pass the exam, you can apply for certification through the Alaska Board of Nursing. The application process includes a background check and submission of fingerprints.

4. Maintain Certification: CNAs in Alaska must renew their certification every two years. This requires proof of employment and completion of continuing education hours.

For more information, visit the Alaska Board of Nursing and the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Becoming a CNA in Kotzebue, AK, is a fantastic way to begin a rewarding career in healthcare. With the right training and certification, you can make a difference in the lives of patients and gain valuable experience in the medical field. Take the first step by reaching out to a CNA school today and start your journey toward becoming a certified nursing assistant.

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in Alaska may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Kotzebue?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Kotzebue usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Kotzebue will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Kotzebue?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Alaska, you can find CNA training starting in November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Alaska, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Kotzebue is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Alaska CNA Salary info.