Program Overview

The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) program at Bakersfield Adult Education prepares students for a career as a CNA, a vital member of the healthcare team who provide direct patient care. CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to provide basic care for patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. The program emphasizes hands-on training and classroom instruction to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a CNA. Students in the program learn how to care for patients' basic needs, including bathing, grooming, and feeding. They also learn how to take vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, as well as how to turn and move patients safely. The course covers topics such as infection control, communication skills, and legal and ethical issues in healthcare. The program includes supervised clinical site training at local healthcare facilities, where students gain practical experience working with patients under the guidance of experienced healthcare professionals. In addition, all trainees receive job readiness training and introductory computer skills instruction to prepare them for employment in the healthcare industry.

Key Program Features

1. Introduction to Healthcare and the Role of a CNA: The program begins with an introduction to the healthcare system and the role of a Certified Nurse Assistant. Students gain an understanding of the responsibilities, ethical considerations, and the importance of teamwork in the healthcare setting.

2. Patient Care Fundamentals: Courses cover fundamental principles of patient care. Students learn basic nursing skills, including assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), maintaining patient hygiene, and providing comfort and support.

3. Medical Terminology and Documentation: The program addresses medical terminology and documentation. Students learn to communicate effectively using healthcare terminology and understand the importance of accurate documentation in patient care.

4. Infection Control Practices: Courses focus on infection control practices. Students gain knowledge of standard precautions, proper hand hygiene, and techniques to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare environments.

5. Vital Signs Monitoring: The program covers vital signs monitoring. Students learn how to measure and record vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure, to assist in patient assessment.

6. Basic Anatomy and Physiology: Courses provide a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology relevant to nursing assistant practice. Students learn about the structure and function of major body systems.

7. Nutrition and Special Diets: The program addresses nutrition and special diets. Students learn about dietary requirements, meal planning, and the importance of nutrition in promoting patient health.

8. Cognitive and Emotional Support: Courses focus on providing cognitive and emotional support to patients. Students learn techniques for communicating with individuals experiencing cognitive challenges and offering emotional support in various healthcare situations.

9. Patient Mobility and Transfers: The program covers techniques for patient mobility and transfers. Students learn how to assist patients with mobility challenges, use assistive devices, and perform safe transfers.

10. End-of-Life Care and Palliative Support: Courses address end-of-life care and palliative support. Students gain insights into providing compassionate care to patients and their families during challenging times, including understanding cultural considerations.

Potential Career Opportunities

• Registered Nurse
• Home Health Aide
• Nursing Home Assistant
• Intensive Care Unit Assistant

Skills you will gain

• Basic Life Support
• Emergency Procedures
• Infection Control
• Medical Terminology
• Patient Safety
• Physical Stamina
• Patient Care
• Healthcare Ethics
• Vital Signs Measurement
• Medical Record Keeping