Healthcare Education Programs at Beck Area Career Center – Waterloo Senior High School

Beck Area Career Center, located within Waterloo Senior High School in Waterloo, IL, offers a comprehensive suite of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the healthcare workforce or for further studies in higher education institutions. These programs blend academic knowledge with hands-on experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges and demands of the healthcare industry.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

Overview

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is a foundational healthcare course offered at Beck Area Career Center. This program is designed to train students to become proficient in providing basic care to patients under the supervision of nursing staff in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities.

Curriculum

The CNA program covers essential topics such as:

• Basic nursing skills
• Anatomy and physiology
• Infection control
• Patient care techniques
• Emergency procedures
• Communication skills in healthcare

Clinical Experience

A key component of the CNA program is the clinical experience, where students get to practice their skills in real healthcare environments. This hands-on training is vital for building confidence and competency in providing patient care.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the coursework and clinical training, students are eligible to take the state certification exam to become a certified nursing assistant.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program

Overview

The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program trains students to provide emergency medical care in various pre-hospital settings. EMTs are crucial first responders who assess, stabilize, and transport patients in medical emergencies.

Curriculum

The EMT program includes a mix of theoretical instruction and practical scenarios, focusing on:

• Patient assessment
• Trauma and medical emergencies
• CPR and first aid
• Use of emergency medical equipment
• Legal and ethical aspects of emergency care

Hands-On Training

Students participate in simulations and ride-alongs with local EMS services to gain real-world experience. This helps them develop the necessary skills to work effectively in high-stress situations.

Certification

Graduates of the EMT program can sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam to become certified EMTs, enabling them to work across the country.

Medical Office Assistant Program

Overview

The Medical Office Assistant program prepares students for administrative roles in healthcare settings, such as clinics, hospitals, and private practices. This program focuses on the clerical and organizational skills necessary to support healthcare operations.

Curriculum

Students in this program learn a variety of administrative and medical office skills, including:

• Medical terminology
• Medical billing and coding
• Electronic health records (EHR) management
• Scheduling and patient coordination
• Office management
• Communication skills

Practical Experience

Through internships and practical projects, students apply their skills in real-world settings, making them job-ready upon graduation.

Health Occupations Program

Overview

The Health Occupations program is a broad-based course offering insights into various careers within the healthcare industry. It’s ideal for students who are exploring different healthcare fields and considering further specialization.

Curriculum

This course covers a wide range of topics, such as:

• Introduction to healthcare systems
• Careers in healthcare
• Basic health care skills
• Medical ethics and law
• Basic anatomy and physiology

Exposure to Multiple Careers

Students have the opportunity to explore different healthcare career paths through shadowing professionals, tours of healthcare facilities, and guest lectures. This exposure helps them make informed decisions about their future careers.

Get Started Today

Beck Area Career Center’s healthcare education programs offer a solid foundation for students looking to enter the healthcare field. Whether you’re interested in becoming a CNA, EMT, Medical Office Assistant, or exploring various health occupations, these programs provide the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience necessary for success. Start your journey in healthcare by enrolling in one of these comprehensive programs today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.