CNA Classes in Oskaloosa, Iowa

Oskaloosa 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 Oskaloosa, Iowa

About Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa, Iowa, is a charming city located in Mahaska County. Known for its rich history and welcoming community, Oskaloosa offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city is home to William Penn University and the historic Oskaloosa City Park. For more information about Oskaloosa, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Oskaloosa, Iowa

If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Oskaloosa, Iowa, there are several local options for CNA training programs. Here are three notable schools offering CNA courses:

1. Indian Hills Community College
   • Location: Ottumwa, IA (Approximately 20 miles from Oskaloosa)
   • Program Description: Indian Hills Community College offers a comprehensive Nurse Aide program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experience. The program prepares students for the Iowa CNA certification exam.
   • Program Page: Indian Hills Community College CNA Program
2. Southeastern Community College
   • Location: West Burlington, IA (Approximately 60 miles from Oskaloosa)
   • Program Description: Southeastern Community College provides a Nurse Aide program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in healthcare settings. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Program Page: Southeastern Community College CNA Program
3. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
   • Location: Des Moines, IA (Approximately 60 miles from Oskaloosa)
   • Program Description: DMACC offers a Nurse Aide program that covers essential nursing assistant skills, including patient care, communication, and safety procedures. The program is designed to prepare students for the state certification exam.
   • Program Page: Des Moines Area Community College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that provide employment opportunities for CNAs. Here are some of the major employers in the area:

1. Mahaska Health
   • Location: Oskaloosa, IA
   • Description: Mahaska Health is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and long-term care. They frequently have openings for CNAs.
   • Employment Page: Mahaska Health Employment Opportunities
2. Crystal Heights Care Center
   • Location: Oskaloosa, IA
   • Description: Crystal Heights Care Center is a skilled nursing facility providing long-term care and rehabilitation services. They often seek dedicated CNAs to join their team.
   • Employment Page: Crystal Heights Care Center Employment Opportunities
3. Northern Mahaska Specialty Care
   • Location: Oskaloosa, IA
   • Description: Northern Mahaska Specialty Care offers specialized nursing care and rehabilitation services. The facility is known for its supportive environment and commitment to quality care.
   • Employment Page: Northern Mahaska Specialty Care Employment Opportunities

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: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the Iowa CNA competency exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
4. Registry Listing: Once you pass the exam and background check, you will be listed on the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry.

For more information, you can visit the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals and the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Oskaloosa, Iowa, is a rewarding career path with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. Take the first step today by contacting a local school to learn more about their CNA programs and courses. Your journey to a fulfilling career in healthcare starts now!

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 Oskaloosa?

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 Oskaloosa 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 Oskaloosa 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 Oskaloosa?

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