CNA Classes in Ames, Iowa

Ames 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 Ames, Iowa

About Ames

Ames, Iowa, is a vibrant city known for its educational institutions, particularly Iowa State University. Located in Story County, Ames is a hub of academic and cultural activities. The city boasts numerous parks, a bustling downtown, and the beautiful Reiman Gardens. For more information about Ames, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Ames, Iowa

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Ames, Iowa, there are several local programs available to help you achieve your goals. Here are three reputable institutions offering CNA courses:

1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) – Ames Campus
   • Location: 1420 S Bell Ave, Ames, IA 50010
   • Program: DMACC offers a comprehensive Nurse Aide program that prepares students for the state certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • DMACC Nurse Aide Program
2. Iowa Valley Community College District – Marshalltown Community College
   • Location: 3700 S Center St, Marshalltown, IA 50158 (approx. 40 miles from Ames)
   • Program: This program provides the necessary training to become a CNA, including both theoretical and practical components. Students will gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
   • Marshalltown Community College CNA Program
3. Indian Hills Community College – Ottumwa Campus
   • Location: 525 Grandview Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501 (approx. 80 miles from Ames)
   • Program: Indian Hills offers a state-approved Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the CNA certification exam. The curriculum includes classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • Indian Hills CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Ames

Ames has several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that frequently hire CNAs. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. Mary Greeley Medical Center
   • Location: 1111 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010
   • Description: Mary Greeley Medical Center is a 220-bed hospital offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • Mary Greeley Medical Center Careers
2. Green Hills Health Care Center
   • Location: 2205 Hamilton Dr, Ames, IA 50014
   • Description: Green Hills is a retirement community that provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. They employ CNAs to assist with daily living activities and medical care.
   • Green Hills Health Care Center Careers
3. Northridge Village
   • Location: 3300 George W Carver Ave, Ames, IA 50010
   • Description: Northridge Village is a senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. They have various positions for CNAs.
   • Northridge Village Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Iowa

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and successfully complete a state-approved CNA training program.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the Iowa CNA competency exam, which includes both a written and skills test.
3. State Registry: Once you pass the exam, your name will be added to the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry.

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Ames, Iowa, is a rewarding decision. With numerous CNA training programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about their nursing assistant courses and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare.

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 Ames?

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 Ames 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 Ames 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 Ames?

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