CNA Classes in Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma CNA Training - Washington

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 Tacoma, Washington

About Tacoma

Tacoma, Washington, is a vibrant city located on the banks of Puget Sound. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Tacoma boasts landmarks such as the Museum of Glass, Point Defiance Park, and the historic Union Station. The city’s official website, City of Tacoma, offers a wealth of information about local events, services, and community resources.

CNA Training Programs in Tacoma, Washington

If you’re considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Tacoma, you have several excellent options for training programs:

1. Tacoma Community College (TCC)
   • Program: Nursing Assistant Certified (NAC)
   • Description: TCC offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant Certified program that prepares students for the Washington State certification exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Location: Central Tacoma
   • Link: TCC Nursing Assistant Program
2. Bates Technical College
   • Program: Nursing Assistant
   • Description: Bates Technical College provides a robust Nursing Assistant program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for the CNA role. The program features a blend of theoretical learning and practical application.
   • Location: Downtown Tacoma
   • Link: Bates Technical College Nursing Assistant Program
3. Clover Park Technical College
   • Program: Nursing Assistant Certified (NAC)
   • Description: Clover Park Technical College’s Nursing Assistant Certified program is designed to equip students with the competencies needed to excel as CNAs. The curriculum includes both coursework and clinical practice.
   • Location: Lakewood, WA (approximately 10 miles from Tacoma)
   • Link: Clover Park Technical College Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Tacoma

Tacoma is home to several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes, providing ample employment opportunities for CNAs:

1. MultiCare Health System
   • Description: MultiCare Health System is a comprehensive health care network that includes hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics. They offer a wide range of employment opportunities for CNAs.
   • Location: Central Tacoma
   • Link: MultiCare Careers
2. CHI Franciscan Health
   • Description: CHI Franciscan Health operates several hospitals and medical centers in the Tacoma area, providing diverse job opportunities for CNAs in various healthcare settings.
   • Location: Multiple locations in Tacoma
   • Link: CHI Franciscan Careers
3. Avamere at Pacific Ridge
   • Description: Avamere at Pacific Ridge is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility offering employment opportunities for CNAs in a supportive and collaborative environment.
   • Location: South Tacoma
   • Link: Avamere Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Washington

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a nursing assistant training program that is approved by the Washington State Department of Health.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which includes both a written (or oral) and skills test.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check through the Washington State Department of Health.
4. Apply for Certification: Submit an application for certification to the Washington State Department of Health.

For more detailed information, visit the Washington State Department of Health and the Washington State Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Tacoma, Washington, is a rewarding and fulfilling choice. With numerous training programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a local school today to learn more about their CNA programs and begin your journey towards a meaningful 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 Washington 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 Tacoma?

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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma?

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