CNA Classes in Altoona, Iowa

Altoona 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 Altoona, Iowa

About Altoona

Altoona, Iowa, is a charming city located in Polk County, known for its friendly community and vibrant local attractions. Situated just a short drive from Des Moines, Altoona boasts popular landmarks such as Adventureland Park and Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel. With its blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban amenities, Altoona is an ideal place for aspiring CNAs to start their careers. For more information, visit the official Altoona website.

CNA Training Programs in Altoona, Iowa

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Altoona, Iowa, there are several excellent CNA training programs available nearby:

1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
   • Location: Ankeny Campus, Ankeny, IA (approximately 15 miles from Altoona)
   • Program Overview: DMACC offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the state certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experiences.
   • Program Page: DMACC Nursing Assistant Program
2. Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA)
   • Location: West Des Moines, IA (approximately 20 miles from Altoona)
   • Program Overview: IHCA provides a state-approved CNA training course that covers essential nursing skills and knowledge. The program includes both theoretical and practical training components.
   • Program Page: IHCA CNA Training
3. Indian Hills Community College
   • Location: Ottumwa, IA (approximately 85 miles from Altoona)
   • Program Overview: Indian Hills Community College offers a Nursing Assistant program designed to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level nursing positions. The course includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical rotations.
   • Program Page: Indian Hills Community College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Altoona

After completing your CNA training, several healthcare facilities and nursing homes in and around Altoona offer employment opportunities:

1. UnityPoint Health – Des Moines
   • Location: Des Moines, IA (approximately 10 miles from Altoona)
   • Overview: UnityPoint Health is a leading healthcare provider offering a range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • Employment Page: UnityPoint Health Careers
2. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
   • Location: Des Moines, IA (approximately 12 miles from Altoona)
   • Overview: MercyOne is a comprehensive healthcare system providing advanced medical care. They offer numerous job opportunities for CNAs.
   • Employment Page: MercyOne Careers
3. Altoona Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
   • Location: Altoona, IA
   • Overview: This local facility provides quality care for residents, including long-term care and rehabilitation services. They often seek dedicated CNAs to join their team.
   • Employment Page: Altoona Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Iowa

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a CNA program approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
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 Nurse Aide Registry: Upon passing the exam, you must register with the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry to obtain your certification.

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Altoona, Iowa, is a rewarding and fulfilling choice. With a variety of training programs and ample employment opportunities, you are well on your way to making a positive impact in the healthcare field. Take the first step today by contacting a local CNA program and starting your journey toward certification.

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 Altoona?

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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona?

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 Altoona is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Iowa CNA Salary info.