Instructor:             

Julie Huffman, R.N.

Program Description: 

This semester long program is available to juniors and seniors.  It will provide an introduction to the health care field and the role of a nursing assistant.  Students will learn the skills needed to work as a nursing assistant and will prepare to become certified through the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry.

Program Objectives:

Students will become certified as nursing assistants upon successful completion of the state exam, which is offered at the end of the program.  They will also become certified in CPR and First Aid.

Program Expectations:

Students are expected to have excellent attendance.  They will complete a clinical externship in a nursing home that will require a commitment of 6 hours a week, either after school or on Saturdays.  Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to their externship site.  Textbooks are college level reading.  All students will be required to pass a random drug test in order to remain in the program.

High School Credit:

Two (2) high school CTE credits

Concurrent Credit: 

HLTH 1200 First Aid and Safety (3 credits)

Most students also earn MA 1100 Medical Terminology (2 credits).

Educational Opportunities:

This program is an excellent introduction to any career in the health care field.  The CNA certificate is also a required prerequisite for most nursing programs in the state of Utah.

Possible Careers:

Students will be able to work as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in a hospital, nursing home, assisted living facility, or patient’s home.  Students may also continue their education to become a registered nurse (RN).

Misconceptions: 

This program focuses on the physical care of patients who are unable to take care of themselves.  It is challenging emotionally and physically.  Students will not learn how to give injections or draw blood.

Classes Required for Entrance:

None

Recommended Classes:

Human Biology, Medical Anatomy, and Health Occupations

Program Length: 

Semester

Eligibility: 

Junior and Seniors (at least 16 years old) based upon entrance testing, GPA, and attendance

Costs/Fees:    

Salt Lake Community College concurrent enrollment fee: $40

Textbooks: $125

Blood pressure kit: $25

State Certification test: $70

HOSA membership: $25 (optional)

Scrubs required

Immunizations required