CNA Classes in Portland, Oregon

Portland CNA Training - Oregon

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 Portland, Oregon

Are you considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Portland, Oregon? This guide will help you understand the steps to becoming a CNA and explore local nursing assistant programs. Whether you’re interested in becoming a nurse aide, nursing assistant, or certified nursing assistant, this article will provide valuable information to kickstart your journey.

About Portland

Portland, often referred to as the “City of Roses,” is known for its vibrant culture, lush parks, and eco-friendly initiatives. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Portland boasts a thriving arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks such as Powell’s City of Books and the International Rose Test Garden. For more information about Portland, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Portland, Oregon

Portland offers several reputable options for those looking to enroll in CNA training programs. Here are three local schools providing nursing assistant courses:

1. Portland Community College (PCC)
   • Location: Multiple campuses including Sylvania and Cascade
   • Program Description: PCC offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the Oregon State Board of Nursing CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • Program Page: PCC Nursing Assistant Program
2. Caregiver Training Institute
   • Location: Northeast Portland
   • Program Description: The Caregiver Training Institute provides a state-approved CNA course designed to equip students with the necessary skills for entry-level nursing assistant positions. The curriculum covers essential patient care techniques and includes hands-on clinical practice.
   • Program Page: Caregiver Training Institute CNA Program
3. Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)
   • Location: Gresham, OR (approximately 16 miles from downtown Portland)
   • Program Description: MHCC offers a Nursing Assistant program that combines theoretical instruction with practical training in a healthcare setting. Graduates are eligible to take the Oregon CNA certification exam.
   • Program Page: MHCC Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Portland

Portland is home to a variety of healthcare facilities and nursing homes that employ CNAs. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
   • Location: Marquam Hill
   • Description: OHSU is a renowned teaching hospital and research center offering numerous employment opportunities for CNAs. It is one of the largest healthcare providers in the region.
   • Employment Opportunities: OHSU Careers
2. Providence St. Vincent Medical Center
   • Location: West Haven-Sylvan
   • Description: Part of the Providence Health & Services network, this medical center provides a wide range of healthcare services and is a significant employer of nursing assistants.
   • Employment Opportunities: Providence Careers
3. Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center
   • Location: Clackamas, OR (approximately 12 miles from downtown Portland)
   • Description: Kaiser Permanente offers integrated healthcare services and has multiple facilities in the Portland area, including the Sunnyside Medical Center.
   • Employment Opportunities: Kaiser Permanente Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Oregon

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a CNA program approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN).
2. Pass the CNA Certification Exam: Successfully pass the Oregon CNA competency exam, which includes a written test and a skills evaluation.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
4. Apply for Certification: Submit an application for CNA certification to the OSBN.

For detailed information on certification requirements, visit the Oregon State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a CNA in Portland, Oregon, is a rewarding decision that offers numerous opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Take the first step by contacting a local school to learn more about their nursing assistant programs. With dedication and the right training, you’ll be well on your way to making a positive impact in the healthcare field.

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 Oregon 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 Portland?

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 Portland 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 Portland 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 Portland?

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