CNA Classes & Training In Memphis, TN

Certified nursing assistants are a valuable part of the healthcare team. Since they directly help hospital patients or nursing home residents with daily activities, their jobs are very important. CNAs must be very observing, and they must be the voice for patients who are unable to express their own needs. Training is essential for this important title. There are several state-approved CNA programs available in Tennessee.

To gain certification, students must complete an approved program. Once the program has been completed, the CNA student must sit for a state competency exam. The exam must be taken within 24 months after completing a training program. However, individuals who are licensed in other states or have military medic training may qualify for a Tennessee CNA license.

Tennessee nursing assistant programs must last for a total of 75 education hours. The classes are coordinated by an approved RN with two or more years of relevant experience. One of the two years must be completed in a long-term care facility. Before students are allowed to care for residents in a clinical setting, they must complete 16 education hours in the following areas:

-Resident Rights
-Communication & Interpersonal Skills
-Safety & Emergency Procedures with Heimlich Training
-Resident Independence
-Infection Control

After these courses have been completed, students are able to practice the skills they learned in a clinical setting. Most training schools work with one or more local convalescent homes or hospitals. Students work several shifts alongside an approved trainer. During their training, they must demonstrate competency of the necessary hands-on tasks. Overall, students receive training for 25 different competency skills. To pass the ending Competency Evaluation, students must pass a test centered around five skills. Each school helps CNA students coordinate their state exams.

In the city of Memphis, there are 12 state-approved programs. There are also a few other approved CNA courses in Shelby County. Some are offered as in-house training courses. This means that a specific convalescent facility offers their own training. In most cases, the facility hires new employees before training them. The following five institutions have reputations for quality education:

Career Academy
CNA Training Program
2600 Poplar Avenue, Suite 415
Memphis, TN 38112
(901) 761-4500

Tennessee Technology Center at Memphis
550 Alabama Avenue
Memphis, TN 38105
(901) 543-6100

Memphis Academy of National Nursing Assistant
175 East Brooks Road
Memphis, TN 38109
(901) 598-3000

Memphis Health Careers Academy
P.O. Box 820243
Memphis, TN 38107
(901) 416-1950

Bridges
477 North 5th Street
Memphis, TN 38105
(901) 527-5627

Making the choice to become a CNA results in a rewarding career. While the job may be difficult at times, the intangible rewards gained from helping others surpass any disadvantages. In addition to these rewards, CNAs are paid well for the important work they do. As people live longer and the population continues growing, the need for these valuable workers is expected to increase greatly. Now is the best time to start a career as a CNA in Memphis.