CNA Classes in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Lake Charles CNA Training - Louisiana

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 Lake Charles, Louisiana

About Lake Charles

Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly community. Nestled in the southwestern part of the state, Lake Charles offers a mix of outdoor activities, historic sites, and a thriving arts scene. For more information about the city, visit the official Lake Charles website.

CNA Training Programs in Lake Charles, Louisiana

If you’re considering becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Lake Charles, Louisiana, there are several local schools offering nursing assistant programs and courses. Here are some options:

1. SOWELA Technical Community College
   • Location: Lake Charles, LA
   • Program Description: SOWELA offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experience.
   • Program Page: SOWELA Nursing Assistant Program
2. McNeese State University
   • Location: Lake Charles, LA
   • Program Description: While primarily known for its nursing programs, McNeese State University also offers courses that can help aspiring CNAs gain foundational knowledge and skills.
   • Program Page: McNeese State University Nursing Programs
3. Compass Career College
   • Location: Hammond, LA (approximately 2 hours from Lake Charles)
   • Program Description: Compass Career College provides a Nursing Assistant program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for CNA certification.
   • Program Page: Compass Career College Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Lake Charles

Lake Charles is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment opportunities. Here are some key employers in the area:

1. Lake Charles Memorial Hospital
   • Location: Downtown Lake Charles
   • Description: Lake Charles Memorial Hospital is the largest full-service healthcare system in southwest Louisiana, offering a range of medical services and employment opportunities for CNAs.
   • Employment Page: Lake Charles Memorial Hospital Careers
2. CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital
   • Location: Downtown Lake Charles
   • Description: This hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services and has numerous job openings for CNAs.
   • Employment Page: CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital Careers
3. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
   • Location: Sulphur, LA (approximately 15 minutes from Lake Charles)
   • Description: West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital offers various medical services and is a significant employer for nursing assistants in the region.
   • Employment Page: West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Louisiana

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Louisiana, you must meet the state-specific certification requirements. These typically include:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: This includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: The exam consists of a written test and a skills evaluation.
3. Submit to a Background Check: A clean criminal background is required.
4. Register with the Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry: This is managed by the Louisiana Department of Health.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a rewarding career path with ample opportunities. Take the first step towards your new career by contacting one of the local schools offering CNA programs. With dedication and the right training, you can make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Reach out to a school today and start your journey to becoming a CNA!

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 Louisiana 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 Lake Charles?

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 Lake Charles 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 Lake Charles 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 Lake Charles?

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