CNA Schools
CNA Classes in Council Bluffs, Iowa
Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs, Iowa
Are you considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Council Bluffs, Iowa? This rewarding profession offers numerous opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families. In this guide, we will explore the steps to becoming a CNA, including local training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements in Iowa.
About Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs, nestled on the eastern bank of the Missouri River, is a vibrant city in Iowa known for its rich history and welcoming community. The city boasts several landmarks, including the Historic General Dodge House and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. For more information about Council Bluffs, visit the official city website.
CNA Training Programs in Council Bluffs, Iowa
To become a CNA in Council Bluffs, you must complete a state-approved training program. Here are three local schools offering Nursing Assistant programs:
- Iowa Western Community College
- Location: 2700 College Rd, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
- Program: Iowa Western Community College offers a comprehensive CNA program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program prepares students for the state competency exam.
- Nursing Assistant Program
- Kaplan University (now Purdue University Global)
- Location: 1751 Madison Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
- Program: Purdue University Global provides a Nursing Assistant certificate program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for entry-level positions in healthcare settings.
- Nursing Assistant Program
- Metropolitan Community College
- Location: 5360 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111 (approximately 10 miles from Council Bluffs)
- Program: This nearby college offers a CNA program that includes both theoretical and practical training. Graduates are eligible to take the state certification exam.
- Nursing Assistant Program
CNA Employment Opportunities in Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs offers various employment opportunities for CNAs in healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Here are some prominent employers:
- Jennie Edmundson Hospital
- Location: 933 E Pierce St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
- Description: Jennie Edmundson Hospital, part of the Methodist Health System, is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a range of medical services.
- Employment Opportunities
- Risen Son Christian Village
- Location: 3000 Risen Son Blvd, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
- Description: This senior living community provides various levels of care, including skilled nursing and rehabilitation services.
- Employment Opportunities
- Midlands Living Center
- Location: 2452 N Broadway, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
- Description: Midlands Living Center offers long-term care and rehabilitation services, focusing on providing compassionate care to its residents.
- Employment Opportunities
CNA Certification Requirements in Iowa
To become a certified nursing assistant in Iowa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Complete a State-Approved Training Program: Enroll in and complete a CNA training program approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA).
- Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the state competency exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
- Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
For more detailed information, visit the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a CNA in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a fulfilling journey that begins with the right education and training. Take the first step by contacting one of the local schools offering CNA programs. Your path to a rewarding healthcare career starts now!
For more information on the job outlook for nursing assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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 Council Bluffs?
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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs?
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 Council Bluffs is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Iowa CNA Salary info.
