CNA Classes in Coeur D Alene, Idaho

Coeur D Alene CNA Training - Idaho

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 Coeur d’Alene, ID

If you’re considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, you’re on the right path. CNAs, also known as nurse aides or nursing assistants, play a vital role in healthcare, providing essential support to patients and medical staff. This guide will walk you through CNA training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements specific to Coeur d’Alene, ID.

About Coeur d’Alene

Nestled in the northern part of Idaho, Coeur d’Alene is a picturesque city known for its stunning lake views, outdoor recreation, and vibrant community. Located along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, the city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Whether you’re exploring Tubbs Hill, enjoying the downtown area, or visiting the Coeur d’Alene Resort, this city is an excellent place to live and work. Learn more about Coeur d’Alene on the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Coeur d’Alene, ID

Several local institutions offer CNA training programs to help you start your journey in healthcare. Below are three options to consider:

1. North Idaho College (NIC)
   • Location: Coeur d’Alene, ID
   • Program Overview: North Idaho College offers a comprehensive Certified Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Idaho CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on lab practice, and clinical experience in healthcare facilities.
   • Website: North Idaho College CNA Program
2. Kootenai Health
   • Location: Coeur d’Alene, ID
   • Program Overview: Kootenai Health provides a CNA training program that includes both theoretical and practical training. Students gain valuable experience in a hospital setting, making this an excellent option for those seeking hands-on learning.
   • Website: Kootenai Health CNA Training
3. Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) – Coeur d’Alene Campus
   • Location: Coeur d’Alene, ID
   • Program Overview: NNU offers a flexible CNA program that accommodates students with varying schedules. The curriculum focuses on foundational nursing skills and prepares students for the certification exam.
   • Website: Northwest Nazarene University CNA Program

If you’re unable to find a program that fits your needs in Coeur d’Alene, consider exploring options in nearby cities like Spokane, WA, which is only about 30 miles away.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Coeur d’Alene

Once certified, Coeur d’Alene offers a variety of employment opportunities for CNAs. Here are some of the top healthcare facilities and nursing homes in the area:

1. Kootenai Health
   • Location: Downtown Coeur d’Alene
   • Overview: Kootenai Health is a nationally recognized, community-owned hospital that offers a wide range of healthcare services. They frequently hire CNAs for various departments, including long-term care and acute care.
   • Website: Kootenai Health Careers
2. Life Care Center of Coeur d’Alene
   • Location: West Coeur d’Alene
   • Overview: This skilled nursing facility provides short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services. Life Care Center is an excellent place for CNAs to gain experience in geriatric care.
   • Website: Life Care Center of Coeur d’Alene
3. Heritage Health
   • Location: Midtown Coeur d’Alene
   • Overview: Heritage Health is a nonprofit community health center offering primary care, mental health services, and dental care. They occasionally hire CNAs to assist with patient care.
   • Website: Heritage Health Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Idaho

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Idaho, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Program: Enroll in and graduate from a CNA training program approved by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the Idaho CNA Competency Exam, which includes both a written and skills evaluation.
3. Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check as required by the state.
4. Get Listed on the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the competency exam, your name will be added to the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry, allowing you to work as a CNA.

For more information, visit the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare or the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

A career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Coeur d’Alene, ID, offers the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others while enjoying job stability and growth opportunities. Take the first step by reaching out to one of the local CNA programs listed above. With the right training and dedication, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career in healthcare. Don’t wait—start your journey today!

For more information about the job outlook for nursing assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics CNA Job Outlook page.

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 Idaho 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 Coeur D Alene?

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 Coeur D Alene 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 Coeur D Alene 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 Coeur D Alene?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Idaho, you can find CNA training starting in November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Idaho, 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 Coeur D Alene is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Idaho CNA Salary info.