CNA Classes in Columbia, Kentucky

Columbia CNA Training - Kentucky

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 Columbia, KY

If you’re considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Columbia, KY, you’re in the right place. CNAs play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing essential care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a CNA in Columbia, KY, and help you find local CNA training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements.

About Columbia, KY

Columbia, Kentucky, is a charming town located in Adair County, known for its small-town atmosphere and rich history. With a population of just over 4,500, Columbia offers a peaceful environment while still providing access to quality healthcare facilities and educational institutions. For more information about the town, you can visit the official Columbia, KY website.

CNA Training Programs in Columbia, KY

If you’re looking to enroll in a CNA program in Columbia, KY, there are several options available within a short distance. These programs will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to pass the Kentucky Nurse Aide Competency Exam and become a certified nursing assistant.

1. Lindsey Wilson College
   • Location: Columbia, KY
   • Program: While Lindsey Wilson College is primarily known for its liberal arts programs, they offer a variety of healthcare-related courses. Contact the school directly to inquire about any nursing assistant or CNA-related training programs they may offer.
   • Website: Lindsey Wilson College
2. Somerset Community College
   • Location: Somerset, KY (Approximately 40 miles from Columbia)
   • Program: Somerset Community College offers a Nurse Aide Training Program designed to prepare students for the CNA certification exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Website: Somerset Community College Nurse Aide Program
3. Campbellsville University
   • Location: Campbellsville, KY (Approximately 20 miles from Columbia)
   • Program: Campbellsville University offers a nursing assistant program that provides students with the skills and training required to become a certified nurse aide. The program includes clinical practice in local healthcare facilities.
   • Website: Campbellsville University Nursing Programs

CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbia

Columbia is home to several healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for CNAs and nurse aides. Below are some of the top employers in the area:

1. TJ Health Columbia
   • Location: Columbia, KY
   • Description: TJ Health Columbia is a leading healthcare provider in Adair County, offering a wide range of medical services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialty services. They often have openings for CNAs to assist with patient care.
   • Website: TJ Health Columbia Careers
2. Summit Manor Nursing Home
   • Location: Columbia, KY
   • Description: Summit Manor is a long-term care facility providing skilled nursing services to residents. CNAs are an integral part of the team, offering daily care and support to the elderly and disabled.
   • Website: Summit Manor Nursing Home
3. Adair County Health Department
   • Location: Columbia, KY
   • Description: The Adair County Health Department provides a variety of public health services and often collaborates with local healthcare providers. They may have opportunities for CNAs in community health roles.
   • Website: Adair County Health Department

CNA Certification Requirements in Kentucky

To become a certified nursing assistant in Kentucky, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: You must complete a training program that is approved by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. This program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training.

2. Pass the Kentucky Nurse Aide Competency Exam: After completing your CNA training, you must pass the state competency exam, which includes both a written and skills test.

3. Submit to a Background Check: Kentucky requires all CNA candidates to undergo a criminal background check before certification.

4. Get Listed on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry: After passing the competency exam, you will be added to the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry, allowing you to work as a CNA in the state.

For more information on certification requirements, visit the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming a CNA in Columbia, KY, is a fulfilling career path with plenty of opportunities for growth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a career change, enrolling in a local CNA program is the first step toward a rewarding job in healthcare. Reach out to one of the local schools listed above to begin your journey today!

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 Kentucky 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 Columbia?

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 Columbia 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 Columbia 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 Columbia?

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