and rehabilitation center , also called a long term care facility , which cares for patients who have been discharged from the hospital . PRN Medical Services also holds classes for CNA students .
“ Having a CNA license gives you a good foundation ,” Stewart explained . “ You can go on to technician jobs or to become a licensed practical nurse and registered nurse . Some schools require that you have a CNA license before starting nursing classes .”
Becoming a licensed practical nurse usually takes two years . An associate degree from a community college can be part of the license process .
Becoming an RN , or registered nurse , usually takes four years and can be part of a bachelor ’ s degree program .
“ You can earn a CNA license in four weeks ,” Stewart said . “ It ’ s 90 hours of training before taking a state exam . If you pass the exam , you can get a job .”
CNAs can work in clinics , long term care facilities , home care and some hospitals . The director of a local health and rehabilitation facility started their career as a CNA , as did Stewart , she said .
At PRN , classes start every two weeks . Tuition for the class is $ 480 , but some sponsoring facilities will pay your tuition in full , if you commit to work for that facility after earning a license . The cost for the state exam is $ 89 , but the state will waive the testing fee for students who have a letter of employment with a long term care facility .
Certified nursing assistants average $ 21,900 per year in
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