CNA Classes in Van Buren, Arkansas

Van Buren 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 Van Buren, Arkansas

About Van Buren

Van Buren, Arkansas, is a charming city nestled along the Arkansas River. Known for its rich history and vibrant community, Van Buren offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city is home to the historic Van Buren Downtown District, which features beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and a variety of shops and restaurants. For more information about Van Buren, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Van Buren, Arkansas

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Van Buren, you have several local options for training programs. Here are some notable schools offering CNA courses:

1. University of Arkansas – Fort Smith
   • Location: Fort Smith, AR (approximately 8 miles from Van Buren)
   • Program: The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers a comprehensive CNA training program designed to prepare students for the state certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab skills practice, and clinical experience.
   • Website: University of Arkansas – Fort Smith CNA Program
2. NorthWest Arkansas Community College
   • Location: Bentonville, AR (approximately 70 miles from Van Buren)
   • Program: NorthWest Arkansas Community College provides a Nursing Assistant program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for the CNA role. Students will participate in both theoretical and practical training sessions.
   • Website: NorthWest Arkansas Community College CNA Program
3. Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus
   • Location: Ozark, AR (approximately 30 miles from Van Buren)
   • Program: Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus offers a Nursing Assistant program focused on equipping students with the skills necessary for entry-level positions in healthcare facilities. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations.
   • Website: Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Van Buren

Van Buren is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that frequently seek qualified CNAs. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. Summit Medical Center
   • Location: Fort Smith, AR (near Van Buren)
   • Description: Summit Medical Center is a full-service hospital offering a wide range of medical services. They regularly hire CNAs to support patient care in various departments.
   • Website: Summit Medical Center Careers
2. Crawford Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center
   • Location: Van Buren, AR
   • Description: Crawford Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. They employ CNAs to assist with daily living activities and patient care.
   • Website: Crawford Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center
3. Mercy Hospital Fort Smith
   • Location: Fort Smith, AR (near Van Buren)
   • Description: Mercy Hospital Fort Smith is a large healthcare facility offering a variety of medical services. They have ongoing opportunities for CNAs in different departments.
   • Website: Mercy Hospital Fort Smith Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Arkansas

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

1. Complete an Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
2. Pass the CNA Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the Arkansas CNA competency exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Submit to a Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
4. Apply for Certification: Submit your application for CNA certification to the Arkansas Department of Health.

For more information, visit the Arkansas Department of Health and the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Van Buren, Arkansas, is a rewarding and fulfilling choice. With several local training programs and ample employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school today to learn more about their CNA courses and start your journey toward becoming a CNA.

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 Van Buren?

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 Van Buren 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 Van Buren 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 Van Buren?

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 Van Buren is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Arkansas CNA Salary info.