CNA Classes in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines 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 Des Moines, Iowa

Are you considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Des Moines, Iowa? This guide will help you understand the process of becoming a nursing assistant and explore local CNA training programs available in the area. Whether you’re aiming to be a CNA, nurse aide, or nursing assistant, Des Moines offers a variety of educational opportunities to get you started on this rewarding career path.

About Des Moines

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is known for its vibrant downtown, historic neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. From the beautiful Pappajohn Sculpture Park to the bustling East Village, Des Moines has something for everyone. Learn more about this dynamic city by visiting the official Des Moines website.

CNA Training Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Des Moines, you’ll need to complete a state-approved training program. Here are some local schools offering CNA programs:

1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
   • Location: Ankeny Campus, 2006 S Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50023
   • Program Description: DMACC offers a comprehensive CNA course that includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program prepares students for the state competency exam.
   • DMACC Nursing Assistant Program
2. Mercy College of Health Sciences
   • Location: 928 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309
   • Program Description: Mercy College provides a Nurse Aide Certificate program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for a career as a CNA. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Mercy College Nurse Aide Program
3. Iowa Health Des Moines
   • Location: 1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
   • Program Description: Iowa Health Des Moines offers a CNA training program that combines classroom learning with clinical practice. The program is designed to equip students with the skills required to excel in healthcare settings.
   • Iowa Health Des Moines CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes that frequently hire CNAs. Here are a few prominent employers:

1. UnityPoint Health – Des Moines
   • Location: Multiple locations across Des Moines
   • Description: UnityPoint Health is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. They regularly have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • UnityPoint Health Careers
2. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
   • Location: 1111 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50314
   • Description: MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a wide array of medical services. They have numerous opportunities for CNAs in different units.
   • MercyOne Careers
3. Iowa Lutheran Hospital
   • Location: 700 E University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50316
   • Description: Part of UnityPoint Health, Iowa Lutheran Hospital provides a variety of healthcare services and has a strong demand for nursing assistants.
   • Iowa Lutheran Hospital Careers

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: The program must include at least 75 hours of training, with a minimum of 30 hours of classroom instruction and 45 hours of clinical practice.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the state competency exam, which consists of a written test and a skills evaluation.
3. Register with the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry: Once you pass the exam, you must register with the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry.

For more detailed information on certification requirements, visit the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Des Moines, Iowa, is a commendable decision. With the right training and certification, you can start making a positive impact in the healthcare field. Contact one of the local schools mentioned above to begin your journey today!

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 Des Moines?

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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines?

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