Nursing Assistant
Students in this program must present a current government-issued ID (such as a CA Identification Card, CA Driver’s License, passport, resident card, or military ID) on the first day of class. Additionally, they are required to have the current flu shot and are recommended to have the COVID-19 vaccine before participating in the Community Classroom (internship) portion of the program, in alignment with current industry guidelines.
SENIORS ONLY:
This program only accepts high school seniors. Juniors are encouraged to enroll in Introduction to Health Careers.
Location: CTEC
Program Description
Being part of a medical team is the fundamental responsibility of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Career trends indicate that between 2021 and 2031, Certified Nursing Assistant jobs will increase by 5% nationally.
CTEC’s Nursing Assistant program is a one-year course that provides instruction in general patient care for working in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and other healthcare facilities. During the second semester of the program, students serve an internship at a local convalescent facility. Upon successful completion, students are prepared to sit for their state CNA exam.
NURSING ASSISTANT STUDENTS LEARN:
- Procedures for taking vital signs
- Hands-on patient care techniques
- Correct use and function of equipment, including mechanical lifts
- Methods for measuring patient height and weight
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION OPPORTUNITIES:
Certifications offered to students completing the Nursing Assistant program include:
- Health Care Provider CPR Certification
- California State Certified Nursing Assistant Certification (opportunity to sit for the exam)
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
Nursing Assistant students are required to have a valid government-issued ID, Social Security number, a physical exam, TB clearance, up-to-date immunization records, a current flu shot, and a COVID-19 vaccination (recommended). Fingerprinting must be completed before beginning clinical training. Students are also expected to maintain a strong attendance record, hold at least a "C" average in English, and demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT AVAILABLE:
Students earn 10 units of biological science credit, 5 units of health credit, and 15 units of elective credits for successfully completing the full year (2 semesters) that will be applied toward their high school graduation.
College prep course. A-G approved. Meets area “G” approval for UC and CSU admissions.
BAKERSFIELD COLLEGE CREDIT AVAILABLE:
Nursing Assistant is articulated with Bakersfield College courses in:
MEDS B69 – Nurse Assistant (6 units)
Students meeting BC’s established criteria can earn up to 6 units of BC credit in addition to the above high school credit.
CAREER PATHWAYS AND RELATED OCCUPATIONS:
This is a career awareness class that instructs students on the basics necessary for entry-level employment. Successful Nursing Assistant students often pursue careers in the following:
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Licensed Vocational Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Physician’s Assistant
- Registered Nurse
