Find the Best Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Mississippi
Are you passionate about helping others and looking for a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Mississippi could be the perfect opportunity for you! With the right training and certification, you can make a positive impact on patients’ lives while enjoying job security and growth in this in-demand field. In this guide, we will walk you through the best certified nursing assistant programs in Mississippi, the requirements and process of becoming a CNA, costs, salary, and job outlook, as well as essential skills and responsibilities you will need to succeed in this fulfilling profession.
Short Summary
- Find the best certified nursing assistant programs in Mississippi at respected community colleges.
- Become a CNA by meeting requirements, completing certification program and passing assessment exam.
- Enjoy an average salary of $25,690 with a positive job outlook and access to additional resources such as free training courses.
Top Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Mississippi
Selecting a reputable and accredited CNA program is crucial for building a strong foundation for your career. In Mississippi, there are several top-notch nursing assistant training programs that provide the necessary education and hands-on experience to prepare you for success in the field.
These programs are offered at well-established community colleges and institutions, such as Jones County Junior College, Itawamba Community College, Southwest Mississippi Community College, Mississippi Delta Community College, East Mississippi Community College, and Pearl River Community College.
Let’s dive into each of these programs in detail, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Jones County Junior College
Located in Ellisville, Jones County Junior College offers a Health Care Assistant program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program consists of four modules: HCA 1115 Basic Health Care Assisting, HCA 1125 Special Care Procedures, HCA 1214 Body Structure and Function, and HCA 1312 Home Health Aide and Homemaker Services. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a well-rounded education in various aspects of patient care.
The tuition fee for the Health Care Assistant program at Jones County Junior College is $250, and students are required to take the BLS certification class provided by the American Heart Association. The program focuses on nutrition, human growth, and body structure and function, providing a solid foundation for aspiring CNAs.
Itawamba Community College
Itawamba Community College, located in Fulton, offers a CNA program that spans 12 weeks. This program includes in-class lectures, lab skills practice, clinical training, and a CPR class, ensuring that students acquire the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to excel in their careers. Upon completion, students will be well-prepared to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam and become certified nursing assistants.
The tuition rate for the CNA program at Itawamba Community College is $425, which is an affordable investment in your future. With the comprehensive training provided by this program, you will be well-equipped to start your career as a skilled and compassionate CNA.
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Southwest Mississippi Community College offers a 16-week (1 semester) nursing assistant training program. Students must attain 75% or higher grades in both classroom lectures and clinical skills training to succeed in the program. Without this minimum grade requirement, they will be unable to accomplish the program. Upon completion of the program, students receive a certification, demonstrating their readiness to enter the workforce as CNAs.
The nursing assistant training program at Southwest Mississippi Community College provides students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their careers. Graduates are prepared to take the NNAAP exam and embark on a rewarding journey as certified nursing assistants.
Mississippi Delta Community College
Mississippi Delta Community College offers a one-semester Health Care Assistant program that prepares students for a variety of roles in the healthcare field. The program’s clinical training section is conducted at local healthcare facilities, providing students with real-world experience and exposure to various patient care scenarios.
Graduates of the Health Care Assistant program can pursue various job roles in the health sector. These include Nurse Assistants, Home Health Aides, Homemakers, and Long-Term Care Aides. This diverse range of career options makes the program a valuable investment for those aspiring to work in the healthcare industry.
East Mississippi Community College
Located in Scooba, East Mississippi Community College provides a 118-hour Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field. The program includes both classroom instruction and in-person clinical training, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges they will face on the job.
Students enrolled in the CNA program at East Mississippi Community College are responsible for the cost of scrubs, plain white shoes, stethoscopes, and any health requirements necessary. Despite these additional costs, the comprehensive training provided by this program is an excellent investment in your future as a CNA.
Pearl River Community College
Pearl River Community College offers a state-approved Certified Nurse Aide training program with a maximum capacity of 12 students. The program is held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning on the 14th of August and ending on the 8th of November. This schedule allows students to balance their education with other commitments, such as work or family.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be well-prepared to take the CNA certification exam administered by Pearson Vue. With the comprehensive training provided by Pearl River Community College, graduates can confidently embark on their careers as certified nursing assistants.
Becoming a CNA in Mississippi: Requirements and Process
To become a CNA in Mississippi, several requirements and steps must be met. The Mississippi State Department of Health is responsible for maintaining the CNA Registry, which is the regulatory body for CNAs in the state. This registry ensures quality standards in credentialing and practice. State requirements for becoming a CNA include completing a certification program and passing an assessment exam.
Upon providing the necessary documentation, candidates may be eligible to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. In the following sections, we will discuss the regulatory body, state requirements, and the process of becoming a CNA in more detail.
Regulatory Body for CNAs in Mississippi
The Mississippi State Department of Health is the regulatory body for Certified Nursing Assistants in Mississippi. This organization is responsible for setting the standards for CNA training and certification and maintaining the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry.
To find more information about the regulatory body, such as contact information and the Nurse Aide Registry, you can visit the Mississippi State Department of Health’s website.
Mississippi State Requirements for CNAs
In order to become a CNA in Mississippi, it is necessary to complete a board-approved CNA program and fulfill a minimum of 120 CNA training hours. After completing the program, candidates must pass the mandatory CNA state exam to obtain their original CNA certification.
The certification must be renewed every 24 months, with 8 consecutive hours of work within that period required for eligibility. It is important to note that there are no continuing education requirements for CNAs in Mississippi.
Mississippi CNA Exam Details
The National Nurse Aide Assessment Exam consists of a 70-question multiple choice written exam and a clinical skills test, where candidates are required to demonstrate 5 core sample clinical CNA skills. The CNA exam is divided into two sections. Both of them are taken on the same day.
Candidates have the option to take an oral version of the exam instead of the written exam. To prepare for the CNA exam, candidates can use various resources, such as practice tests and study guides.
Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry
The Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry is a database of certified nursing assistants in Mississippi, maintained by Pearson Vue and supervised by the Division of Health Facilities Licensure and Certification. The registry allows employers and the public to verify the certification status of CNAs in the state.
To check your CNA certification status or find contact information for the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry, you can visit their website.
Cost of CNA Training and Exam in Mississippi
The cost of CNA training and the exam in Mississippi can vary depending on the school and location. While training program costs can range from $400 to $2,500, financial aid may be available for those who qualify.
The cost of the CNA exam in Mississippi is $101. In the following sections, we will discuss the costs associated with CNA training programs and the exam in more detail.
Training Program Costs
The cost of CNA training programs in Mississippi varies depending on the program and location. Tuition fees can range from $400 to $1,500, with some nursing homes offering free CNA classes and covering the cost of exam fees if you commit to working at their facility.
It is important to consider these costs when choosing a CNA program, as well as any additional expenses, such as uniforms, stethoscopes, and health requirements.
Mississippi CNA Exam Cost
The fee for the CNA exam in Mississippi is $111, which can be paid using a credit card, debit card, or money order.
If you need to cancel your exam, Mississippi has a refund policy that allows for a full refund if the cancellation is made at least 24 hours before the scheduled exam time. In case you do not pass the CNA exam, you will be required to retake the exam and pay the applicable exam fee again.
CNA Salary and Job Outlook in Mississippi
CNAs in Mississippi can expect an average salary of $25,690, with factors such as experience, location, and employer influencing their earnings. The job outlook for CNAs in Mississippi is positive, with an expected growth rate of 5% over the next decade.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the average CNA salary, factors influencing salary, and the job outlook in Mississippi.
Average CNA Salary in Mississippi
The average salary for CNAs in Mississippi is estimated to be $31,120 annually, with a range usually between $28,370 and $34,370. Factors that may affect CNA salaries in the state include experience, location, and employer.
CNAs in larger cities may receive higher wages than those in rural areas, and those with more experience may be able to negotiate higher wages. Keep in mind that these figures are just averages, and individual salaries may vary.
Factors Influencing CNA Salary
Various factors can influence CNA salary in Mississippi, such as working experience, facility location, standard of living, job employed position, academic background, CNA training, education, shift differentials, and bonuses.
By gaining experience, obtaining additional certifications, and demonstrating a commitment to excellence in patient care, CNAs can potentially increase their earnings and advance in their careers. It’s also important to consider the benefits that may be offered by employers, such as health insurance, dental insurance, and retirement plans, when evaluating CNA salary.
Job Outlook for CNAs in Mississippi
The job outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants in Mississippi is positive, with an expected growth rate of 5% over the 2021-2031 decade, which is on par with the average for all occupations. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services due to an aging population and advances in medical technology.
As a result, CNAs can expect to find ample job opportunities in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.
Skills and Responsibilities of a Certified Nursing Assistant
To excel in their careers, CNAs must possess a variety of skills and be able to carry out several responsibilities. The key aspects of a CNA’s role include clinical skills training, patient care responsibilities, and effective communication and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
In the following sections, we will discuss the essential skills and responsibilities that CNAs must master to provide the highest quality of care for their patients.
Clinical Skills Training
CNAs must possess the clinical skills necessary for providing quality patient care. These skills include taking vital signs, performing basic medical procedures, assisting with activities of daily living, and maintaining proper hygiene.
In addition to these essential clinical skills, CNAs must also have a strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a solid understanding of medical terminology. By mastering these skills, CNAs can ensure that they are providing the highest level of care for their patients.
Patient Care Responsibilities
As a CNA, your primary responsibility is to provide basic care to patients, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. You will also assist patients with eating and drinking, ensuring that they receive proper nutrition and hydration.
Additionally, you will help patients with mobility, transferring, and ambulation, and provide emotional support and companionship to patients and their families. By fulfilling these patient care responsibilities, you play a crucial role in promoting the well-being and comfort of your patients.
Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration skills are crucial for CNAs, as they must interact with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals on a daily basis. As a CNA, you will need to demonstrate attentive listening, express interest through appropriate body language, and possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
Collaboration is also essential, as CNAs must work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the highest level of care. By cultivating these communication and collaboration skills, CNAs can build strong relationships and promote positive health outcomes for their patients.
Additional Resources for Mississippi CNAs
In addition to the information provided in this guide, there are several additional resources available to help you succeed as a CNA in Mississippi. These include CNA Free Training, which offers free practice tests and study materials, the Mississippi State Department of Health, which provides contact information and a website link for the Nurse Aide Registry and CNA status check, and local healthcare facilities that offer paid CNA classes and programs.
In the following sections, we will explore these resources in more detail.
CNA Free Training
While there are no free CNA training programs in Mississippi, the American Health Care Association (AHCA) offers a Temporary Nurse Aide (TNA) to CNA Test Prep course that is available online and can be used to prepare for CNA licensure or as a study guide.
Additionally, some licensed nursing homes in Mississippi may offer free CNA classes and cover the cost of exam fees if you commit to working at their facility. These opportunities can help you gain valuable skills and knowledge without incurring significant costs.
Mississippi State Department of Health
The Mississippi State Department of Health offers contact information and a website link for the Nurse Aide Registry and CNA status check. By visiting their website, you can access important resources and information related to CNA training, certification, and employment in Mississippi.
The department is responsible for public health in the state, providing comprehensive information on public services, disease control, health and safety topics, and healthy living.
Local Healthcare Facilities
Local healthcare facilities in Mississippi, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities, may offer paid CNA classes and programs. These programs typically include classroom instruction, clinical experience, and a state-approved certification exam.
By participating in these programs, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your career as a CNA while also building valuable connections with potential employers.
Summary
In conclusion, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Mississippi is a rewarding career choice that offers job security, growth, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. By selecting a reputable CNA program, meeting state requirements, and mastering the essential skills and responsibilities of a CNA, you can confidently embark on this fulfilling profession. With the wealth of resources available, such as CNA Free Training and the Mississippi State Department of Health, you have all the tools you need to succeed as a CNA in the Magnolia State.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Mississippi?
Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Mississippi typically takes around 2-3 months to complete all the required training and pass the certification exams. This includes completing the mandatory 75 hours of classroom and clinical instruction and passing the CNA written and skills exams.
The classroom instruction covers topics such as basic nursing skills, patient care, infection control, and communication. The clinical instruction provides hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. During this time, students will learn how to perform basic nursing skills such as taking medication.
How much are CNA classes in Mississippi?
The cost of CNA classes in Mississippi can range from $400 to $1,500, depending on the program chosen.
Additionally, some nursing homes may offer free CNA classes and cover exam fees if you agree to work at their facility.
What is the difference between CNA and CMA?
The primary difference between a CNA and a CMA is that CNAs perform basic caregiving tasks while CMAs perform advanced medical tasks. The duties of CNAs include assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, and dressing.
CMAs are tasked with administering medications and other medical treatments, providing lab tests and analyzing results, and diagnosing illnesses or diseases.
