CNA Classes in Merced, California

Merced CNA Training - California

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 Merced, California

Are you interested in a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Merced, California? This guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started on your journey, including local CNA training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements.

About Merced

Merced, known as the “Gateway to Yosemite,” is a vibrant city in California’s Central Valley. With a rich history and a growing community, Merced offers a unique blend of urban and rural lifestyles. The city is home to the University of California, Merced, and boasts numerous parks, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community. For more information about Merced, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Merced, California

If you’re looking to become a certified nursing assistant in Merced, there are several local options for CNA training programs. Here are three reputable schools offering nursing assistant programs:

1. Merced College
   • Location: Merced
   • Description: Merced College offers a comprehensive CNA program designed to prepare students for the California state certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Program Page: Merced College CNA Program
2. Central Valley Medical
   • Location: Merced
   • Description: Central Valley Medical offers a state-approved CNA training program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful career as a nursing assistant. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Program Page: Central Valley Medical CNA Program
3. Fresno City College
   • Location: Fresno (approximately 60 miles from Merced)
   • Description: Fresno City College provides a well-rounded CNA program that combines classroom learning with clinical practice. This program prepares students for the state certification exam and a career in healthcare.
   • Program Page: Fresno City College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Merced

Merced offers various employment opportunities for CNAs in healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Here are some major healthcare employers in the area:

1. Mercy Medical Center Merced
   • Location: Downtown Merced
   • Description: Mercy Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in Merced, offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • Employment Opportunities: Mercy Medical Center Careers
2. Anberry Rehabilitation Hospital
   • Location: North Merced
   • Description: Anberry Rehabilitation Hospital specializes in providing rehabilitation services and long-term care. They often seek qualified CNAs to join their team.
   • Employment Opportunities: Anberry Rehabilitation Hospital Careers
3. Franciscan Convalescent Hospital
   • Location: Central Merced
   • Description: Franciscan Convalescent Hospital offers skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services. They provide a supportive environment for CNAs to grow their careers.
   • Employment Opportunities: Franciscan Convalescent Hospital Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in California

To become a certified nursing assistant in California, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which consists of a written (or oral) exam and a skills evaluation.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
4. Register with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH): After passing the competency exam, you must apply for certification with the CDPH.

For more detailed information, visit the California Department of Public Health.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a CNA in Merced, California, is a fulfilling and impactful choice. With various training programs and employment opportunities available locally, you can begin your journey toward becoming a certified nursing assistant today. Contact a school for more information on their programs and take the first step towards your new career.

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 California 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 Merced?

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 Merced 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 Merced 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 Merced?

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