CNA Classes in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to become a CNA, including local training programs, employment opportunities, and state certification requirements.

About Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, known as the “City of Five Seasons,” is the second-largest city in Iowa and is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and strong sense of community. Located along the Cedar River, Cedar Rapids boasts attractions like the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the Brucemore Mansion. For more information about Cedar Rapids, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

If you’re looking to become a CNA in Cedar Rapids, there are several local schools offering Nursing Assistant programs. Here are three options to consider:

1. Kirkwood Community College
   • Location: Main Campus, Cedar Rapids
   • Program: Kirkwood Community College offers a comprehensive CNA program that includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for the state certification exam.
   • Website: Kirkwood Community College CNA Program
2. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
   • Location: Various campuses, including Cedar Rapids area
   • Program: Eastern Iowa Community Colleges provide a robust CNA training program with flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes. The program covers essential nursing skills and patient care techniques.
   • Website: Eastern Iowa Community Colleges CNA Program
3. Hawkeye Community College
   • Location: Nearby in Waterloo, IA (approximately 60 miles from Cedar Rapids)
   • Program: Hawkeye Community College offers a state-approved CNA program that includes both theoretical and practical training. The program prepares students for the Iowa CNA certification exam.
   • Website: Hawkeye Community College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids is home to several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes that frequently hire CNAs. Here are a few notable employers:

1. UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital
   • Location: Downtown Cedar Rapids
   • Description: UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital is a leading healthcare provider in Cedar Rapids, offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • Employment Page: UnityPoint Health Careers
2. Mercy Medical Center
   • Location: Near Wellington Heights
   • Description: Mercy Medical Center is a comprehensive medical center providing advanced healthcare services. They offer numerous opportunities for CNAs to join their team.
   • Employment Page: Mercy Medical Center Careers
3. Cottage Grove Place
   • Location: Southeast Cedar Rapids
   • Description: Cottage Grove Place is a senior living community that provides high-quality care to its residents. They often seek dedicated CNAs to support their healthcare team.
   • Employment Page: Cottage Grove Place Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Iowa

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Iowa, you must meet specific state requirements. The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals oversees the CNA certification process. Here are the key steps:

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: After completing your training, you must pass the Iowa CNA competency exam, which includes a written test and a skills evaluation.

3. Get Listed on the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the exam, your name will be added to the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry, making you eligible to work as a CNA in the state.

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

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a fulfilling career choice that offers numerous opportunities for growth and development. Take the first step towards your new career by contacting one of the local schools offering CNA programs. With dedication and the right training, you can soon be on your way to making a positive impact in the healthcare field.

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 Cedar Rapids?

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 Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapids?

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