CNA Classes in Mena, Arkansas

Mena CNA Training - Arkansas

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 Mena, AR

Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Mena, Arkansas, is a great way to enter the healthcare field and make a difference in the lives of others. This article will guide you through the process of finding CNA training programs, understanding certification requirements, and exploring local employment opportunities.

About Mena, AR

Mena is a charming city located in western Arkansas, nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains. Known for its scenic beauty, Mena is a gateway to outdoor adventures, including the breathtaking Talimena Scenic Drive and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. The city offers a close-knit community and a growing demand for healthcare professionals, making it a great place to start your career as a CNA. Learn more about Mena on the City of Mena’s official website.

CNA Training Programs in Mena, AR

If you’re looking to enroll in a CNA program in Mena, AR, there are several options nearby that can help you get started with your training. Below are a few programs available in Mena and surrounding areas:

1. Rich Mountain Community College (RMCC)
   Located in Mena, RMCC offers a Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Arkansas CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on clinical training, and guidance from experienced instructors.
   Visit the RMCC Nursing Assistant program page for more information.

2. Ouachita Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
   This local healthcare facility occasionally offers CNA training programs for individuals interested in joining their team. Training is often provided on-site and includes practical experience in a real-world setting.
   Contact the facility directly via their official website to inquire about upcoming training opportunities.

3. University of Arkansas – Hope-Texarkana (UAHT)
   Located approximately 60 miles from Mena, UAHT offers a comprehensive CNA program that covers all aspects of nursing assistant care. This program is ideal for those willing to commute for high-quality training.
   Learn more on the UAHT CNA program page.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Mena

Mena has several healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment. Here are some of the top employers in the area:

1. Mena Regional Health System
   This full-service hospital provides a range of healthcare services and frequently hires CNAs to join their team. Located in the heart of Mena, it’s a great place to start your career.
   Visit their careers page for current job openings.

2. Ouachita Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
   A long-term care facility located in Mena, this center offers skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services. They regularly hire CNAs to provide compassionate care to residents.
   Explore job opportunities on their official website.

3. Peachtree Assisted Living
   This assisted living facility in Mena provides a supportive environment for seniors. CNAs are a vital part of their team, offering daily care and assistance to residents.
   Learn more about their services and potential job openings on their official website.

CNA Certification Requirements in Arkansas

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Arkansas, you must meet the following state requirements:

1. Complete a state-approved CNA training program consisting of at least 90 hours of classroom and clinical instruction.
2. Pass the Arkansas CNA certification exam, which includes both written and skills demonstration components.
3. Undergo a criminal background check and fingerprinting as required by the Arkansas Department of Health.
4. Get listed on the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry, which is managed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

For detailed information on certification requirements, visit the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry page.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Mena, AR, is a fulfilling career path with plenty of opportunities to make a difference in your community. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a new direction, taking the first step toward CNA certification is easier than you think. Contact one of the schools or healthcare facilities listed above to learn more about their programs and get started on your journey today!

For information on the job outlook for CNAs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics CNA job outlook page.

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 Arkansas 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 Mena?

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 Mena 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 Mena 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 Mena?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Arkansas, you can find CNA training starting in December 2024, January 2025, February 2025, or March 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Arkansas, 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 Mena is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Arkansas CNA Salary info.