CNA Classes in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Portsmouth CNA Training - Rhode Island

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 Portsmouth, RI

If you’re considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Portsmouth, RI, you’re on the path to joining a rewarding field in healthcare. As a CNA, also known as a nurse aide or nursing assistant, you’ll provide essential care to patients, helping with daily activities and supporting nurses in various healthcare settings. This article will guide you through the process of becoming a CNA in Portsmouth, including local training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements in Rhode Island.

About Portsmouth, RI

Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is a charming town located on Aquidneck Island, known for its scenic views, coastal charm, and rich history. It’s part of Newport County and offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere while being close to the bustling city of Newport. Portsmouth is home to beautiful landmarks like the Green Animals Topiary Garden and the Portsmouth Abbey School. You can learn more about the town by visiting the official Portsmouth website.

CNA Training Programs in Portsmouth, RI

While Portsmouth itself is a small community, there are several nearby CNA training programs available to help you get started on your career as a nursing assistant. Here are three options in the surrounding area:

1. Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) – Newport County Campus
   • Location: Newport, RI (Approx. 8 miles from Portsmouth)
   • Program: CCRI offers a comprehensive CNA training program that prepares students to take the Rhode Island state certification exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience in local healthcare facilities.
   • Learn more about the CNA program at CCRI.
2. St. Elizabeth Community – CNA Training Program
   • Location: East Greenwich, RI (Approx. 25 miles from Portsmouth)
   • Program: St. Elizabeth Community offers a free CNA training program for individuals interested in working in their nursing homes and assisted living facilities. This program is an excellent opportunity for those looking for both training and employment.
   • Learn more about the CNA program at St. Elizabeth Community.
3. American Safety Programs & Training, Inc.
   • Location: Providence, RI (Approx. 30 miles from Portsmouth)
   • Program: This CNA program provides accelerated training, allowing students to enter the workforce quickly. The program includes classroom learning, lab work, and clinical experience.
   • Learn more about the CNA program at American Safety Programs & Training.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Portsmouth

Once you’ve completed your CNA training, there are several healthcare facilities in and around Portsmouth where you can seek employment. Here are a few of the major employers in the area:

1. Atria Aquidneck Place
   • Location: Portsmouth, RI
   • Description: Atria Aquidneck Place is an assisted living and memory care community that offers a supportive environment for seniors. CNAs here assist residents with daily activities, help with personal care, and provide companionship.
   • Explore job opportunities at Atria Aquidneck Place.
2. Newport Hospital
   • Location: Newport, RI (Approx. 8 miles from Portsmouth)
   • Description: Newport Hospital, part of the Lifespan network, is a full-service community hospital offering a range of healthcare services. CNAs play a vital role in patient care, assisting nurses and providing support to patients in various departments.
   • Explore job opportunities at Newport Hospital.
3. Grand Islander Center (Genesis Healthcare)
   • Location: Middletown, RI (Approx. 6 miles from Portsmouth)
   • Description: Grand Islander Center is a skilled nursing facility offering rehabilitation and long-term care services. CNAs at this facility work closely with residents to provide personal care and assist with daily living activities.
   • Explore job opportunities at Grand Islander Center.

CNA Certification Requirements in Rhode Island

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Rhode Island, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete an Approved CNA Program: You must complete a state-approved CNA training program, which includes a minimum of 100 hours of training (20 hours of clinical work and 80 hours of classroom instruction).

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you’ll need to pass the Rhode Island CNA competency exam, which includes both a written test and a skills evaluation.

3. Submit to a Background Check: Rhode Island requires all CNA candidates to undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.

4. Register with the Rhode Island Nurse Aide Registry: Once you’ve passed the exam and the background check, you can apply to be listed on the Rhode Island Nurse Aide Registry. This registry is maintained by the Rhode Island Department of Health.

For more information on CNA certification requirements, visit the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Portsmouth, RI, is a great way to start a fulfilling career in healthcare. With local training programs and plenty of employment opportunities nearby, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact one of the schools listed above and begin your journey toward CNA certification today!

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 Rhode Island 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 Portsmouth?

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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?

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