CNA Classes in Los Alamos, New Mexico

Los Alamos 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 Los Alamos, New Mexico

Are you considering a fulfilling career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Los Alamos, New Mexico? This guide will provide you with all the information you need to start your journey, from local CNA training programs to employment opportunities and certification requirements.

About Los Alamos

Los Alamos, New Mexico, is renowned for its rich history and scientific heritage. Home to the Los Alamos National Laboratory, this small town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cutting-edge research facilities. Nestled in the mountains, Los Alamos boasts stunning landscapes, excellent schools, and a close-knit community. For more information, visit the official Los Alamos website.

CNA Training Programs in Los Alamos, New Mexico

If you’re looking to become a CNA in Los Alamos, there are several nearby educational institutions offering Nursing Assistant programs. Here are some options:

1. University of New Mexico – Los Alamos (UNM-LA)
   • Location: Los Alamos, NM
   • Program: UNM-LA offers a comprehensive CNA program designed to prepare students for the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry exam. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • Website: UNM-LA CNA Program
2. Northern New Mexico College
   • Location: Española, NM (approximately 25 miles from Los Alamos)
   • Program: This program provides students with the knowledge and skills required to become a certified nursing assistant. It includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Website: Northern New Mexico College CNA Program
3. Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)
   • Location: Santa Fe, NM (approximately 35 miles from Los Alamos)
   • Program: SFCC offers a state-approved CNA program that prepares students for the New Mexico Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations.
   • Website: SFCC CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Los Alamos

Once you complete your CNA training, several healthcare facilities in and around Los Alamos offer employment opportunities for certified nursing assistants. Here are some key employers:

1. Los Alamos Medical Center
   • Location: Los Alamos, NM
   • Description: A full-service hospital offering a wide range of healthcare services. The medical center frequently hires CNAs to support patient care.
   • Website: Los Alamos Medical Center Careers
2. Sombrillo Nursing & Rehabilitation
   • Location: Los Alamos, NM
   • Description: A skilled nursing facility providing long-term care and rehabilitation services. Sombrillo Nursing & Rehabilitation is a great place for CNAs to work.
   • Website: Sombrillo Nursing & Rehabilitation Careers
3. Espanola Hospital
   • Location: Española, NM (approximately 25 miles from Los Alamos)
   • Description: Part of the Presbyterian Healthcare Services, this hospital offers various healthcare services and frequently hires CNAs.
   • Website: Espanola Hospital Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in New Mexico

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the New Mexico Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
3. Background Check: Undergo and pass a criminal background check.
4. Registry Application: Apply for inclusion in the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry.

For more information, visit the New Mexico Department of Health and the New Mexico Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embark on a rewarding career as a CNA in Los Alamos, New Mexico! With the right training and certification, you can make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Contact a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming a certified nursing assistant.

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 Los Alamos?

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 Los Alamos 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 Los Alamos 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 Los Alamos?

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 November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 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 Los Alamos is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out New Mexico CNA Salary info.