Healthcare Education Programs at Whiteside Area Career Center

Whiteside Area Career Center (WACC), located in Sterling, Illinois, offers comprehensive healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the medical field. These programs are crafted to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring students are well-equipped to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

The CNA program at WACC focuses on preparing students to become Certified Nursing Assistants. This program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. Key components of the CNA program include:

• Basic Nursing Skills: Students learn essential skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and providing basic patient care.
• Safety and Emergency Procedures: Instruction on maintaining a safe environment for patients and responding effectively to emergencies.
• Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in real healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in a supervised environment.

Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the state certification exam for CNAs.

Medical Assistant Program

The Medical Assistant program at WACC aims to develop versatile healthcare professionals capable of performing both administrative and clinical tasks. Program highlights include:

• Administrative Skills: Training in tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, and billing and coding.
• Clinical Skills: Instruction on drawing blood, administering medications, taking patient histories, and assisting with minor procedures.
• Externship Opportunities: Practical experience in medical facilities, providing students with the opportunity to work directly under the supervision of experienced medical staff.

Graduates of the Medical Assistant program are prepared to take certification exams and pursue employment in various healthcare settings.

Health Occupations Program

WACC also offers a Health Occupations program designed to introduce students to a wide range of careers within the healthcare industry. The curriculum covers several areas, including:

• Medical Terminology: Understanding the language of medicine, which is essential for all healthcare professionals.
• Healthcare Systems: Exploring the different types of healthcare facilities and the various roles within each system.
• Professional Skills: Developing skills such as teamwork, communication, and ethical decision-making, which are crucial in any healthcare environment.

This program often serves as a stepping stone for students who wish to further their education in specialized healthcare fields.

Get Started Today

Whiteside Area Career Center provides robust healthcare education programs that ensure students are ready to meet the demands of a growing industry. Whether you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, a Medical Assistant, or explore various health occupations, WACC offers the training and resources you need to succeed. For more information or to enroll in a program, visit the Whiteside Area Career Center website or contact their admissions office. Start your journey toward a rewarding career in healthcare today!