CNA Classes in Las Cruces, New Mexico

Las Cruces CNA Training - New Mexico

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 Las Cruces, New Mexico

About Las Cruces

Las Cruces, New Mexico, is a vibrant city located in the Mesilla Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As the second-largest city in New Mexico, Las Cruces offers a mix of urban amenities and small-town charm. The city is home to New Mexico State University and boasts attractions like the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument and the historic Mesilla Plaza. For more information about Las Cruces, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Las Cruces, New Mexico

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Las Cruces, there are several local schools offering CNA programs and courses. Here are three options to consider:

1. Doña Ana Community College (DACC)
   • Location: East Mesa Campus, Las Cruces
   • Program: The Nursing Assistant program at DACC prepares students for the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry exam. The course covers essential skills such as patient care, infection control, and basic nursing procedures.
   • Website: DACC Nursing Assistant Program
2. New Mexico State University (NMSU)
   • Location: Main Campus, Las Cruces
   • Program: NMSU offers a comprehensive CNA program through its Continuing Education department. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Website: NMSU Continuing Education CNA Program
3. Las Cruces Public Schools Adult Education
   • Location: Las Cruces
   • Program: This program provides adult learners with the opportunity to complete CNA training. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical components to ensure students are well-prepared for the certification exam.
   • Website: Las Cruces Public Schools Adult Education

CNA Employment Opportunities in Las Cruces

Las Cruces has a variety of healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. MountainView Regional Medical Center
   • Location: University Park, Las Cruces
   • Description: A full-service hospital offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation.
   • Employment Opportunities: MountainView Regional Medical Center Careers
2. Memorial Medical Center
   • Location: Downtown Las Cruces
   • Description: This hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, including specialized care in cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology.
   • Employment Opportunities: Memorial Medical Center Careers
3. Good Samaritan Society – Las Cruces Village
   • Location: Las Alturas, Las Cruces
   • Description: A senior living community offering skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and assisted living services.
   • Employment Opportunities: Good Samaritan Society Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in New Mexico

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in New Mexico, candidates must meet specific state requirements, including:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: This program must include at least 75 hours of training, with a minimum of 16 hours of clinical experience.
2. Pass the New Mexico Nurse Aide Competency Exam: This exam tests both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
3. Register with the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry: After passing the competency exam, candidates must apply to be listed on the registry.

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Las Cruces, New Mexico, is a rewarding and fulfilling path. With several excellent CNA training programs available locally and a variety of employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to pursue your education. Contact a school today to take the first step 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 New Mexico 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 Las Cruces?

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 Las Cruces 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 Las Cruces 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 Las Cruces?

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