The Nursing Assistant program prepares students for employment as NA’s in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare agencies. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination in Washington State to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.
The Nursing Assistant program is a Washington State approved one quarter course. The course includes lecture, skills lab and direct patient care under the supervision of clinical nursing instructors. Students must attend all scheduled classes and clinical experiences to meet State certification requirements. Students must perform in a safe and competent manner in the clinical area, complying with OBRA guidelines. Failure to do so may prevent the student from receiving a certificate.
Students gain knowledge and learn skills caring for patients of various age groups during acute and chronic stages of disease, surgery, and rehabilitation, as well as how to maintain health during the normal aging process. Included in the curriculum are patients’ rights, basic bedside nursing skills, patient/personal safety, HIPAA and HIV/AIDS education. Skills are practiced in the program laboratory. Clinical experience occurs in acute hospitals and/or skilled nursing facilities.