CNA Classes in Park Rapids, Minnesota

Park Rapids CNA Training - Minnesota

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 Park Rapids, MN

About Park Rapids

Park Rapids, MN, is a charming city known for its scenic beauty and friendly community. Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Park Rapids offers a serene environment with access to stunning lakes, such as Fish Hook Lake, and lush forests. The city is also home to the famous Heartland State Trail, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. For more information about Park Rapids, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Park Rapids, MN

If you’re considering becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Park Rapids, MN, there are several local options for CNA training programs. Here are three reputable schools offering nursing assistant courses:

1. Northwest Technical College
   • Location: Bemidji, MN (approximately 40 miles from Park Rapids)
   • Program Description: Northwest Technical College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice.
   • Nursing Assistant Program
2. Central Lakes College
   • Location: Brainerd, MN (approximately 70 miles from Park Rapids)
   • Program Description: Central Lakes College provides a Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide program designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the healthcare field. The course covers essential topics such as patient care, safety, and communication.
   • Nursing Assistant Program
3. M State – Wadena
   • Location: Wadena, MN (approximately 30 miles from Park Rapids)
   • Program Description: Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) in Wadena offers a Nursing Assistant program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Graduates are well-prepared to take the state certification exam.
   • Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Park Rapids

Park Rapids has several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that offer employment opportunities for CNAs. Here are a few major employers in the area:

1. Essentia Health St. Joseph’s-Park Rapids Clinic
   • Location: Park Rapids, MN
   • Description: Essentia Health St. Joseph’s-Park Rapids Clinic is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of medical services. The clinic is known for its patient-centered care and supportive work environment.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Heritage Living Center
   • Location: Park Rapids, MN
   • Description: Heritage Living Center is a skilled nursing facility providing long-term care, rehabilitation, and memory care services. It is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through compassionate care.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. CHI St. Joseph’s Health
   • Location: Park Rapids, MN
   • Description: CHI St. Joseph’s Health is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a variety of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. It is a part of the larger CHI network, known for its commitment to health and wellness.
   • Employment Opportunities

CNA Certification Requirements in Minnesota

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a nursing assistant program that is approved by the Minnesota Department of Health.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the Minnesota Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Register with the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the exam, you must apply for inclusion in the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Park Rapids, MN, is a rewarding choice. With a variety of local training programs and numerous employment opportunities, you can make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Contact a school today to begin your journey toward 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 Minnesota 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 Park Rapids?

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 Park Rapids 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 Park Rapids 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 Park Rapids?

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