CNA Classes and CNA Training Programs in Raleigh, North Carolina (NC)

Becoming a CNA in Raleigh

The city of Raleigh has experienced considerable growth in recent years, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the medical industry. For those interested in a career helping others, there are many avenues to explore. One of the most promising is to become a CNA – these professionals can enjoy a competitive salary, and because it’s an entry-level position, there are numerous options for those who want to move up after completing CNA classes in Raleigh.

Finding Job Information in Raleigh

Finding job information in Raleigh is an important first step for aspiring CNAs. With the right information, you can determine a number of things, including what employers in the area usually have the most need for new hires, what you can earn per year in various positions within the city and more.

You’ll find that perusing job listings is one of the best ways to determine what employers like to see in CNA candidates, as well as what companies are hiring. You can get an excellent overview of the situation by using the Raleigh Craigslist page. You will find listings for every conceivable position a CNA might be eligible to take.

There are other routes open to you for getting the information you need, as well as assistance in landing your first job (or subsequent jobs). The city of Raleigh is home to quite a few medical staffing companies, all of which have connections to area medical centers, clinics and hospitals. The following agencies can help you learn more about the industry as well as find a position:

• Trinity Healthcare Staffing Group
• Maxim Staffing
• Favorite Healthcare Staffing (Durham)

CNA Classes and Licensing Requirements in Raleigh

Like Florida, the state of North Carolina does not require aspiring CNAs to complete any special classes or training prior to taking the certification exam. However, the state does strongly recommend that such a course be taken to ensure that you have the skills and education necessary to pass the exam. There are numerous state approved CNA programs available, and the durations vary considerably from one provider to another, as there is no mandated number of hours or credits necessary.

After taking one of these Raleigh CNA programs, you’ll need to sit for the exam to become certified. It’s a two-part test that consists of multiple-choice questions and skills assessments. The test consists of 70 questions and 5 skills assessments. However, if you cannot pass the exam within three attempts, the state does mandate that you enroll in a CNA training program before making another attempt.

Key CNA Training Programs in Raleigh

The city of Raleigh is home to quite a few state approved CNA training programs. You’ll find that course duration varies significantly, but as long as the course can prove it has state approval, you will learn the necessary skills to pass the exam. Some of the better providers of CNA classes in Raleigh include the following:

• Care One Health Training Institute – Providing residents of Raleigh with access to a variety of medical training programs, this education provider is ranked relatively high within the state in terms of quality of CNA classes.

Key Employers for CNAs in Raleigh

After earning your certification, it’s time to get out in the workforce. You can go through the medical staffing agencies listed previously, or you can apply directly with some of the area’s highly ranked medical centers. The following options can be excellent solutions to your employment needs:

• REX UNC Healthcare
• WakeMed
• UNC Medical Center

Salary Information for Certified Nursing Assistants in Raleigh

Interestingly, CNAs in the city of Raleigh earn slightly lower than the national average annual salary, but the city is still one of the higher paying areas in the region. The median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Raleigh, NC is $29,851, as of March 31, 2017, with a range usually between $27,062–$33,203 (Salary.com).

Key Skills Learned in CNA Training Programs

CNAs need a robust set of skills to ensure that patients receive the quality of care they deserve. During your CNA classes and training, you will learn a wide range of skills, including:

• How to lift, transfer and clean patients who may be immobilized or catatonic
• How to communicate and care for young patients and those with mental health conditions
• How to read medical equipment and record vital signs properly, as well as how to communicate changes in vital signs to other staff
• How to use a variety of medical equipment and devices