CNA Classes in Princeton, Illinois

Princeton 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 Princeton, IL

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Princeton, Illinois, is a rewarding decision that offers job stability, personal fulfillment, and opportunities to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether you’re looking to work as a CNA, nurse aide, or nursing assistant, Princeton provides a supportive environment with access to quality training programs and healthcare facilities.

This guide will walk you through the steps to become a CNA in Princeton, IL, along with information about local CNA schools, employment opportunities, and state certification requirements.

About Princeton, IL

Princeton, located in Bureau County, Illinois, is a charming city known for its rich history, friendly community, and small-town appeal. With its historic downtown, featuring boutique shops and restaurants, and landmarks like the Owen Lovejoy Homestead, Princeton offers a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. For more information about Princeton, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Princeton, IL

Aspiring CNAs in Princeton have access to several training programs in and around the area. Below are three options to consider:

1. Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC)
   • Location: Oglesby, IL (approximately 20 miles from Princeton)
   • Program Overview: IVCC offers a state-approved Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (BNATP) designed to prepare students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • Website: IVCC CNA Program
2. Sauk Valley Community College
   • Location: Dixon, IL (approximately 50 miles from Princeton)
   • Program Overview: This program provides comprehensive training in basic nursing skills, patient care, and safety protocols. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities.
   • Website: Sauk Valley Community College CNA Program
3. Black Hawk College – East Campus
   • Location: Galva, IL (approximately 35 miles from Princeton)
   • Program Overview: Black Hawk College offers a Nursing Assistant Training Program that equips students with the skills needed to pass the Illinois CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom and clinical training.
   • Website: Black Hawk College CNA Program

If none of these options are convenient, consider exploring additional CNA programs in nearby cities like Peoria or Rockford.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Princeton

Princeton is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that regularly hire CNAs. Here are some key employers in the area:

1. Perry Memorial Hospital (OSF HealthCare)
   • Location: Princeton, IL
   • Overview: Perry Memorial Hospital, now part of OSF HealthCare, is a leading healthcare provider in the region. It offers a range of medical services, including long-term care and rehabilitation, making it a great employer for CNAs.
   • Website: OSF HealthCare Careers
2. Liberty Village of Princeton
   • Location: Princeton, IL
   • Overview: Liberty Village is a senior living community offering skilled nursing care, assisted living, and rehabilitation services. They frequently hire CNAs to provide compassionate care to residents.
   • Website: Liberty Village Careers
3. Colonial HealthCare and Rehabilitation Centre
   • Location: Princeton, IL
   • Overview: This long-term care and rehabilitation facility is another excellent option for CNAs seeking employment in Princeton.
   • Website: Colonial HealthCare

These facilities provide opportunities for CNAs to work in a variety of settings, from long-term care to acute care environments.

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: Enroll in a program approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). These programs typically include at least 120 hours of training, divided between classroom instruction and clinical practice.

2. Pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the competency exam, which includes both a written and skills demonstration portion.

3. Register with the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry: Upon passing the exam, your name will be added to the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry, allowing you to work as a CNA in the state.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Princeton, IL, is a fulfilling career choice with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to make a career change, CNA training programs in the area can help you achieve your goals. Contact one of the schools listed above to begin your training and take the first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare!

For information on the job outlook for CNAs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Nursing Assistants.

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 Princeton?

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 Princeton 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 Princeton 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 Princeton?

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 December 2024, January 2025, February 2025, or March 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 Princeton is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Illinois CNA Salary info.