CNA Classes in Dwight, Illinois

Dwight CNA Training - Illinois

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 Dwight, IL

If you’re considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Dwight, IL, you’re making a great choice. CNAs, also known as nurse aides or nursing assistants, play a crucial role in healthcare, providing essential care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a CNA in Dwight, IL, including local training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements.

About Dwight, IL

Dwight is a charming village located in Livingston County, Illinois. Known for its rich history and small-town charm, Dwight is home to several historic landmarks, including the Dwight Railroad Depot and the Texaco Gas Station, which is part of the historic Route 66. The village offers a peaceful community atmosphere while being conveniently located near major cities like Joliet and Bloomington, making it an ideal place to pursue a career in healthcare. For more information about Dwight, you can visit the official village website.

CNA Training Programs in Dwight, IL

To become a CNA in Dwight, IL, you’ll need to complete a state-approved training program. Below are some schools near Dwight that offer CNA programs:

1. Joliet Junior College (JJC)
   • Location: Joliet, IL (Approximately 30 miles from Dwight)
   • Program Overview: Joliet Junior College offers a comprehensive CNA program that prepares students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experience in a healthcare setting.
   • JJC CNA Program Information
2. Kankakee Community College (KCC)
   • Location: Kankakee, IL (Approximately 35 miles from Dwight)
   • Program Overview: Kankakee Community College provides a state-approved CNA program that includes both theoretical and practical training. Students learn essential skills such as patient care, infection control, and communication.
   • KCC CNA Program Information
3. Heartland Community College
   • Location: Normal, IL (Approximately 50 miles from Dwight)
   • Program Overview: Heartland Community College offers a Nursing Assistant Certificate Program that includes classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program is designed to prepare students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry exam.
   • Heartland CNA Program Information

These programs are within a reasonable distance from Dwight and provide the necessary training to help you succeed in your CNA career.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Dwight, IL

Once you’ve completed your CNA training and certification, there are several healthcare facilities and nursing homes in and near Dwight where you can seek employment. Below are some of the top employers in the area:

1. Heritage Health – Dwight
   • Location: Dwight, IL
   • Overview: Heritage Health is a skilled nursing facility located right in Dwight, offering long-term care, rehabilitation services, and short-term stays. CNAs at Heritage Health play a vital role in providing compassionate care to residents.
   • Heritage Health Employment Opportunities
2. Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers
   • Location: Morris, IL (Approximately 20 miles from Dwight)
   • Overview: Morris Hospital is a regional healthcare provider offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. CNAs are integral to the patient care team at this facility.
   • Morris Hospital Employment Opportunities
3. Ascension Saint Joseph Medical Center
   • Location: Joliet, IL (Approximately 30 miles from Dwight)
   • Overview: Ascension Saint Joseph Medical Center is a large hospital offering a variety of healthcare services. CNAs here assist with patient care, including monitoring vital signs and providing basic care.
   • Ascension Saint Joseph Careers

These facilities provide excellent opportunities for CNAs to work in a supportive environment and make a difference in the lives of patients.

CNA Certification Requirements in Illinois

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: You must complete a CNA course that is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). The program typically includes at least 120 hours of training, which consists of classroom instruction and clinical practice.

2. Pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written test and a skills assessment. This exam is administered by Southern Illinois University (SIU).

3. Register with the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the exam, you will be added to the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry, which is managed by the Illinois Department of Public Health. You must remain in good standing with the registry to maintain your certification.

For more information about certification requirements, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health or the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Becoming a CNA in Dwight, IL is a fulfilling career choice that offers both personal and professional rewards. With the right training and certification, you’ll be well on your way to making a positive impact in the healthcare field. Contact one of the schools listed above today to start your journey toward becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant!

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 Illinois 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 Dwight?

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 Dwight 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 Dwight 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 Dwight?

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