CNA Classes in Algona, Iowa

Algona CNA Training - Iowa

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 Algona, Iowa

About Algona

Algona, Iowa, is a charming city located in Kossuth County. Known for its friendly community and picturesque landscapes, Algona offers a welcoming environment for aspiring healthcare professionals. The city boasts several parks, a vibrant downtown area, and historical landmarks, making it an ideal place to live and work. For more information about Algona, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Algona, Iowa

If you’re considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Algona, Iowa, several local schools offer comprehensive training programs to help you get started. Here are three options:

1. Iowa Lakes Community College
   • Location: Emmetsburg, IA (approximately 35 miles from Algona)
   • Program: Iowa Lakes Community College offers a Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the state certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Website: Iowa Lakes Community College Nursing Assistant Program
2. North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC)
   • Location: Mason City, IA (approximately 60 miles from Algona)
   • Program: NIACC provides a Certified Nursing Assistant course designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the healthcare field. The course includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Website: NIACC CNA Program
3. Iowa Central Community College
   • Location: Fort Dodge, IA (approximately 50 miles from Algona)
   • Program: Iowa Central Community College offers a CNA program that covers essential nursing skills, patient care techniques, and prepares students for the certification exam.
   • Website: Iowa Central Community College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Algona

Algona is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that offer employment opportunities for CNAs. Here are some key employers in the area:

1. Kossuth Regional Health Center
   • Location: Algona, IA
   • Description: Kossuth Regional Health Center provides a range of healthcare services, including inpatient and outpatient care, emergency services, and rehabilitation. They frequently have openings for CNAs.
   • Website: Kossuth Regional Health Center Employment Opportunities
2. Algona Manor Care Center
   • Location: Algona, IA
   • Description: Algona Manor Care Center is a long-term care facility offering skilled nursing services, rehabilitation, and memory care. They regularly hire CNAs to provide quality care to their residents.
   • Website: Algona Manor Care Center
3. Good Samaritan Society – Algona
   • Location: Algona, IA
   • Description: The Good Samaritan Society in Algona offers a continuum of care services, including assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. They often seek CNAs to join their dedicated team.
   • Website: Good Samaritan Society – Algona Employment

CNA Certification Requirements in Iowa

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program, such as those offered by the schools listed above.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the Iowa CNA competency exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Register with the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry: After passing the exam, you must register with the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry, maintained by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
4. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.

For more information, visit the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.

Get Started Today

Starting a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Algona, Iowa, can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With the right training and dedication, you can make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Contact a local school today to learn more about their CNA 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 Iowa 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 Algona?

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 Algona 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 Algona 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 Algona?

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