CNA Classes in Alachua, Florida

Alachua CNA Training - Florida

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 Alachua, Florida

About Alachua

Alachua, Florida, is a charming city located in the heart of Alachua County. Known for its friendly community and scenic landscapes, Alachua offers a small-town feel with the convenience of being close to Gainesville. Key landmarks include the historic downtown area and the beautiful San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park. For more information about the city, you can visit the official Alachua website.

CNA Training Programs in Alachua, Florida

If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alachua, Florida, there are several local options to consider. Here are three notable programs:

1. Santa Fe College
   • Location: Gainesville, FL (approximately 15 miles from Alachua)
   • Program Description: Santa Fe College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Florida CNA exam. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Santa Fe College Nursing Assistant Program
2. Gainesville Job Corps Center
   • Location: Gainesville, FL (approximately 20 miles from Alachua)
   • Program Description: The Gainesville Job Corps Center provides a Nursing Assistant training program that focuses on equipping students with the skills needed for entry-level positions in healthcare. The program includes practical training in a clinical setting.
   • Gainesville Job Corps Center CNA Program
3. North Florida Technical College
   • Location: Starke, FL (approximately 25 miles from Alachua)
   • Program Description: North Florida Technical College offers a Nursing Assistant program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The program prepares students for the state certification exam and entry into the healthcare field.
   • North Florida Technical College Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Alachua

After completing your CNA training, there are several healthcare facilities in and around Alachua where you can seek employment:

1. North Florida Regional Medical Center
   • Location: Gainesville, FL
   • Description: North Florida Regional Medical Center is a full-service medical and surgical acute care center serving North Central Florida. They offer numerous employment opportunities for CNAs.
   • North Florida Regional Medical Center Careers
2. Malcom Randall VA Medical Center
   • Location: Gainesville, FL
   • Description: This VA medical center provides comprehensive healthcare services to veterans. It’s an excellent place for CNAs to gain experience in a supportive environment.
   • Malcom Randall VA Medical Center Careers
3. Parklands Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
   • Location: Gainesville, FL
   • Description: Parklands Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offers long-term care and rehabilitation services. They frequently have openings for CNAs.
   • Parklands Rehabilitation and Nursing Center Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Florida

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Ensure the program you choose is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
2. Pass the Florida CNA Exam: This exam includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Submit a Background Check: A background check is required to ensure the safety of patients.
4. Apply for Certification: Once you pass the exam, you can apply for certification through the Florida Board of Nursing.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming a CNA in Alachua, Florida, is a rewarding career path with numerous opportunities. Start by contacting one of the local schools today to learn more about their programs and how to enroll. Your journey to a fulfilling career in healthcare begins now!

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 Florida 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 Alachua?

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 Alachua 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 Alachua 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 Alachua?

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