Health Careers Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

Course Description:

Students learn the information and skills necessary to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).  A CNA is an individual that provides direct patient care for individuals that are sick, disabled or not able to care for themselves to help them have good quality of life.  

• CNA’s provide basic patient care and help with daily tasks to those who need assistance.
• Students learn vital signs, personal care (bathing, dressing, oral care, etc), how to transfer a patient from one place to another, wound care, how to maintain medical tubes, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, Infection Control, and Workplace Safety.
• Students who qualify have the opportunity to participate in the 2-day clinical experience* where they can put their skills into practice and take care of real patients. 
• After completing all requirements of training, students have the opportunity to take the State of Michigan CNA Certification Exam at the end of the year. 
• This course is an acceptable prerequisite for Advanced Healthcare.

*To earn CNA certification a 2-day clinical experience, where students put their skills into practice and take care of real patients, is required.

Students who would benefit from this program

Students who would benefit from this program are those who enjoy helping others in daily living tasks, are patient and detailed-oriented, have good communication skills, and work well under pressure. This is a great intro course to determine if a health career is for you.

Course Outline:

1st Semester: Infection Control, Healthcare Systems, Safety and Body Mechanics, Teamwork, Communication, Basic Nursing, Skills/Personal Care Skills, Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare, Customer Service, and Rehabilitation Care.

2nd Semester: Anatomy and Physiology/Medical Terminology, Human Growth and Development, CPR/First Aid Certification Training, Mental Health, Death and Dying, Employability Skills, and Advanced Skills. 

High School Credit:

Students will earn elective credit at their high school upon completion of this course. Please see a high school counselor (based on district decision) for eligibility towards 4th-year math-related credit, VPAA credit, and waived credits for third year science and second year world language.

College Credit: Several Michigan post-secondary education partners offer direct and articulate credit for this course. For specifics, visit the College & Career Services tab on our website.

Length of Program:

1 year