CNA Classes in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

Wilkes Barre CNA Training - Pennsylvania

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 Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

About Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, is a historic city located in the northeastern part of the state. Nestled along the Susquehanna River, it is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful parks. As the county seat of Luzerne County, Wilkes-Barre offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. For more information about the city, visit the official Wilkes-Barre website.

CNA Training Programs in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wilkes-Barre, there are several excellent training programs available locally:

1. Luzerne County Community College
   • Location: Nanticoke, PA (approximately 9 miles from Wilkes-Barre)
   • Description: Luzerne County Community College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • Program Link: Luzerne County Community College Nursing Assistant Program
2. Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center
   • Location: Wilkes-Barre, PA
   • Description: This center provides a Nurse Aide Training Program that equips students with the skills needed to excel as a CNA. The curriculum covers essential topics such as patient care, infection control, and safety procedures.
   • Program Link: Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center Nurse Aide Training Program
3. Pennsylvania College of Technology
   • Location: Williamsport, PA (approximately 90 miles from Wilkes-Barre)
   • Description: Though a bit farther away, Pennsylvania College of Technology offers an excellent CNA program. The course includes both theoretical and practical training, ensuring students are well-prepared for the workforce.
   • Program Link: Pennsylvania College of Technology CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre boasts several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment opportunities:

1. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center
   • Location: Plains Township, PA
   • Description: A prominent healthcare provider in the region, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center offers a range of medical services and is a significant employer for CNAs and other healthcare professionals.
   • Employment Opportunities: Geisinger Careers
2. Wilkes-Barre General Hospital
   • Location: Wilkes-Barre, PA
   • Description: Part of the Commonwealth Health network, Wilkes-Barre General Hospital is a leading healthcare facility providing comprehensive services. The hospital frequently hires CNAs to support patient care.
   • Employment Opportunities: Commonwealth Health Careers
3. Highland Park Senior Living
   • Location: Wilkes-Barre Township, PA
   • Description: This senior living community offers various levels of care, including assisted living and memory care. CNAs play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of residents.
   • Employment Opportunities: Highland Park Senior Living Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Pennsylvania

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Pennsylvania, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a program approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as required by the state.
4. Register with the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry: Once certified, CNAs must be listed on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry.

For more detailed information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, is a rewarding decision. With several excellent CNA training programs and abundant employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a school today to learn more and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in healthcare.

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 Pennsylvania 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 Wilkes Barre?

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 Wilkes Barre 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 Wilkes Barre 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 Wilkes Barre?

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