CNA Classes in Wood River, Illinois

Wood River 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 Wood River, Illinois

About Wood River

Wood River, Illinois, is a charming city located in Madison County. Known for its rich history and close-knit community, Wood River offers a welcoming environment for those looking to start a career in healthcare. The city is home to several parks, local businesses, and is conveniently located near the Mississippi River. For more information about Wood River, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Wood River, Illinois

If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wood River, Illinois, there are several local programs available to help you get started on your career path. Here are three reputable CNA training programs in the area:

1. Lewis and Clark Community College
   • Location: Godfrey, IL (approximately 10 miles from Wood River)
   • Program Description: Lewis and Clark Community College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the state certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Program Link: Lewis and Clark Community College CNA Program
2. Southwestern Illinois College
   • Location: Belleville, IL (approximately 25 miles from Wood River)
   • Program Description: Southwestern Illinois College provides a Nursing Assistant course that covers essential skills and knowledge needed to excel as a CNA. The program combines theoretical learning with practical training in a healthcare setting.
   • Program Link: Southwestern Illinois College CNA Program
3. Anderson Hospital
   • Location: Maryville, IL (approximately 15 miles from Wood River)
   • Program Description: Anderson Hospital offers a CNA training program that equips students with the skills required to provide high-quality patient care. The program includes both classroom education and clinical practice.
   • Program Link: Anderson Hospital CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Wood River

Wood River and the surrounding areas provide numerous employment opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants. Here are some major healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find job openings:

1. OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center
   • Location: Alton, IL (approximately 5 miles from Wood River)
   • Description: OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center is a leading healthcare provider offering a wide range of medical services. CNAs can find various employment opportunities within this facility.
   • Employment Page: OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center Careers
2. Alton Memorial Hospital
   • Location: Alton, IL (approximately 5 miles from Wood River)
   • Description: Alton Memorial Hospital is a well-established healthcare institution providing comprehensive medical services. The hospital frequently hires CNAs to support patient care.
   • Employment Page: Alton Memorial Hospital Careers
3. Integrity Healthcare of Wood River
   • Location: Wood River, IL
   • Description: Integrity Healthcare of Wood River is a local nursing home offering long-term care services. This facility provides excellent job opportunities for CNAs looking to work in a supportive environment.
   • Employment Page: Integrity Healthcare of Wood River Careers

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 and complete a CNA training program approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as required by the state.
4. Registry: Get listed on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Wood River, Illinois, is a rewarding and fulfilling choice. With numerous local training programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school today to learn more about their CNA courses and begin your journey towards a meaningful career in healthcare.

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 Wood River?

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 Wood River 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 Wood River 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 Wood River?

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 Wood River is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Illinois CNA Salary info.