Colorado Springs is a growing city, and one of the industries that have taken off in recent years is the medical field. Currently, there is a shortage of qualified nursing professionals in the city, and that includes CNAs. You will find that becoming a CNA is an excellent way to advance any medical career, though you will need to know a few things about the industry before you get started with your CNA classes in Colorado Springs.
Finding Information about Jobs in Colorado Springs
Finding information about jobs available for CNAs in Colorado Springs is not only a good idea, but it’s essential for ensuring that you really understand what you’ll find in the industry. Job information can help you determine what employers are worth your time, what you might expect in terms of compensation, whether certain employers require other criteria or experience beyond licensing and quite a bit more.
To get started learning about certified nursing assistant jobs in Colorado Springs, you can use the city’s Craigslist page. Online job ads here can offer a wealth of information, and help you determine if this is the right career for your needs.
You can also find both information and job placement assistance through medical staffing agencies in Colorado Springs. There are several agencies currently operating, including:
CNA Classes and Licensing Requirements in Colorado Springs
Those hoping to enter the medical industry as a CNA will have to comply with the state’s required training and licensing guidelines. Unlike some states, Colorado does require that CNAs enroll in one of the approved CNA programs in Colorado Springs that consists of at least 175 hours (75 hours of specific CNA classes and 100 hours of clinical training in a real world setting). Make sure that the training program you choose is approved by the state – the course provider should offer this information upfront.
After completing your course, you must sit for the state’s licensing exam to become licensed. The exam consists of both multiple-choice questions and demonstrated skills assessments. If you fail the exam, the state allows you to retest several times before having to reenroll in CNA classes. For those passing the exam, a full background check is required, as well as a TB test and proof of immunizations.
CNA Training Programs in Colorado Springs
As you can see from the information above, having the proper CNA training and education is vital to becoming a certified nursing assistant. There are quite a few state approved education programs within Colorado Springs that provide CNA classes in Colorado Springs, including:
NTOSC – Nursing and Therapy Services of Colorado has one of the highest passing percentages of any training provider in the state and offers both day and evening CNA classes to provide greater flexibility.
Key Employers for CNAs
Upon graduation from CNA training programs, certified nursing assistants will need to begin finding employment. In addition to applying with area medical staffing companies, you can also apply directly with some of the area’s top employers. There are quite a few excellent medical centers in Colorado Springs, including the following:
- Colorado Springs Memorial Health System
- Centura – Penrose Hospital
- HealthSouth (includes four separate medical clinics in the city)
- Centura Health
- Evans Army Community Hospital
Salary Information
The median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Colorado Springs, CO is $31,105, as of March 31, 2017, with a range usually between $28,199–$34,598 (Salary.com).
Key Skills Learned in CNA Training Programs
As a CNA, you will be called upon to provide care for patients and assistance to other healthcare professionals on a regular basis. Performing your job duties correctly will require several key skills, including:
- Lifting and Moving – CNAs can be required to help transfer patients from bed to bed, room to room and more. Some patients may have partial or no mobility.
- Wound Care – CNAs can provide a variety of wound care and infection prevention services, including wound cleaning, dressing application and more.
- Special Needs – Many patients with special needs will require expert care, including those with cognitive impairments, physical disabilities and more. CNAs will also need to know how to provide care for young patients, as well as for those with mental health conditions.
- Popular Cities in Colorado
CNA Classes in Colorado
- CNA Training Centers
- Street Address
- Phone Number
Avanza Training, LLC | 2598 Palmer Park Blvd | 719- 434-2965 |
Beo Nurse Aide Training Program | 5055 Mark Dabling Blvd | 719- 385-0200 |
CollegeAmerica-Colorado Springs | 2020 N Academy Blvd | 719- 622-3600 ext. 1230 |
General Health Nursing Academy, LLC | 829 N. Circle Dr, Suite 102 | 719- 422-9343 |
Independence Center | 1130 W Woodmen Rd | 719- 574-5562 ext. 242 |
Pikes Peak Community College Area Voc Program | 719- 502-3111 | |
Pikes Peak Community College-Post Secondary | 719- 502-3111 |