Program Overview:
The Certified Nursing Assistant Vocational Program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to become competent and compassionate certified nursing assistants. This program combines theoretical instruction with hands-on clinical experience to prepare individuals for entry-level positions in healthcare, particularly in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health settings.
Curriculum Highlights:
- Introduction to Healthcare:
- Overview of the healthcare system, roles, and responsibilities of nursing assistants, and an introduction to patient care.
- Basic Nursing Skills:
- Instruction and practice in fundamental nursing skills such as hygiene, mobility assistance, and vital signs monitoring.
- Medical Terminology:
- Development of proficiency in medical vocabulary and communication skills relevant to healthcare settings.
- Anatomy and Physiology:
- Understanding the basic structure and function of the human body to enhance patient care knowledge.
- Infection Control:
- Training on preventing and controlling the spread of infections in healthcare environments.
- CNA Ethics and Professionalism:
- Exploration of ethical considerations and the importance of maintaining professionalism in healthcare.
- Patient Care Procedures:
- Hands-on training in activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, feeding, and assisting with mobility.
- Nutrition and Hydration:
- Understanding the principles of nutrition and hydration, with a focus on meeting the diverse needs of patients.
- Cognitive and Mental Health Care:
- Recognizing and addressing the mental health needs of patients, including those with cognitive impairments.
- Communication Skills:
- Developing effective communication techniques for interacting with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Clinical Rotations:
- Practical, supervised clinical experience in healthcare facilities to apply learned skills and gain real-world exposure.
- CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification:
- Training in life-saving techniques and CPR to ensure readiness for emergency situations.
Certification Preparation: Preparation for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam is required for NY State certification.
Career Development: Guidance on job search strategies, resume building, and interview preparation to assist students in securing employment as CNAs.
Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, additional requirements may apply.
Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by the appropriate accrediting bodies or regulatory agencies.
Upon successful completion of the Certified Nursing Assistant Vocational Program, graduates are prepared to take the state certification exam and enter the healthcare workforce as competent and compassionate nursing assistants, providing essential care to patients in various healthcare settings.