Healthcare Education Programs at NW Career And Technical High School in Lakewood, WA

NW Career and Technical High School (NWCTHS) in Lakewood, WA, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the healthcare industry. These programs provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge to prepare students for both immediate entry into healthcare careers and further academic pursuits in medical fields. Below are some of the prominent healthcare programs offered at NWCTHS.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at NWCTHS is designed to prepare students for careers as nursing assistants, a critical role within healthcare settings. The program includes:

• Clinical Skills: Training in essential nursing assistant skills such as patient hygiene care, vital signs measurement, and mobility assistance.
• Basic Nursing Theory: Classroom instruction on medical terminology, human anatomy, and the basics of patient care.
• State Certification: Preparation for the Washington State CNA certification exam, which is necessary for employment as a CNA in various healthcare facilities.
• Clinical Experience: Practical experience through supervised clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities, providing real-world experience.

Medical Assisting Program

The Medical Assisting program prepares students for roles as medical assistants in a variety of healthcare environments. Key components of the program include:

• Administrative Skills: Instruction on medical office procedures, including patient scheduling, billing, and electronic health record management.
• Clinical Skills: Training in patient care techniques, such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and performing basic lab tests.
• Externship Opportunities: Real-world experience through externships in local clinics, ensuring students gain hands-on practice in a professional setting.
• Certification Preparation: Guidance and support for students to take certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.

Pharmacy Technician Program

The Pharmacy Technician program is aimed at students interested in supporting pharmacists in the preparation and dispensing of medications. This program covers:

• Pharmacy Operations: Instruction on pharmacy laws, ethics, and communication skills necessary for effective patient interaction.
• Pharmacology: Learning the fundamentals of medications, including their uses, effects, and proper dosing.
• Prescription Processing: Training in interpreting prescriptions, compounding medications, and managing inventory.
• Clinical Experience: Opportunities to gain practical experience through externships in hospital and community pharmacies.
• Certification: Preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), a significant credential for employment in this field.

Get Started Today

NW Career and Technical High School offers robust programs to jumpstart careers in healthcare. For students passionate about making a difference in the lives of others through healthcare, NWCTHS provides comprehensive education and invaluable real-world experience. To learn more about these programs or to begin the enrollment process, visit the NWCTHS website or contact their admissions office. Embark on your path to a rewarding healthcare career today!