Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Oregon
Are you dreaming of a rewarding and fulfilling career in the healthcare industry? Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Oregon is an excellent choice that opens doors to numerous opportunities and growth. This comprehensive guide is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about starting your journey as a CNA in Oregon, including certified nursing assistant programs in Oregon. From certification requirements and top training programs to exam preparation and career pathways, we’ve got you covered. Let’s embark on this exciting adventure together!
Oregon State Board of Nursing and CNA Certification
The Oregon State Board of Nursing is the regulatory body responsible for Certified Nursing Assistants in Oregon. To qualify as a CNA, candidates must complete a state-accredited CNA program. Additionally, they need to pass the CNA 1 Examination. To attain CNA 2 certification, an individual must first obtain a CNA 1 certification. Additionally, a CNA 2 program must be completed and passed, then a competency exam must be successfully passed.
CNA 1 and CNA 2 Certifications
CNA 1 certification is the more conventional route to becoming a CNA, whereas CNA 2 candidates must already possess a CNA 1 certification, finish a CNA 2 program, and pass a competency examination. One example of a CNA 1 training program in Oregon is the Oregon Coast Community College Nurse Assistant Level 1 Training Program, in which students spend 36 hours in the skills lab and 76 hours in a licensed healthcare facility acquiring hands-on clinical experience. The program provides students with a comprehensive overview of bedside nursing skills, restorative abilities, mental health issues and social service resources.
Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements
Maintaining an active CNA 1 certification in Oregon requires working and being remunerated for a minimum of 400 hours of CNA duties in the two years immediately preceding the certificate expiration. Additionally, continuing education requirements must be met if less than 600 hours of CNA duties have been worked in the prior 3 years, which requires 20 hours of continuing education, and 30 hours of continuing education for those who have worked less than 800 hours of CNA duties in the prior 4 years.
CNA Training Programs in Oregon
CNA training programs in Oregon vary in length and curriculum, catering to a diverse range of aspiring CNAs. The Oregon State Board of Nursing provides a list of approved CNA training programs on its website, which includes programs offered by LBCC and Marquis. The expense of CNA training programs in Oregon can range from no cost to several thousand dollars, ensuring that there is an option for every budget.
Program Length and Curriculum
The duration of CNA training programs in Oregon can vary depending on the program, but it can span from 4 weeks to 164 hours. The curriculum of these programs typically encompasses topics such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, infection control, medical terminology, and patient care.
Understanding the length and curriculum of different CNA training programs is essential to choosing the one that best suits your needs and schedule.
Top CNA Schools in Oregon
Oregon is home to numerous top-notch CNA schools that offer a range of programs to suit every aspiring CNA’s needs and preferences. Some of the highest-ranking CNA schools in Oregon include, Clackamas Community College, and Mt. Hood Community College.
Clackamas Community College
The RN Associate Degree at Clackamas Community College offers a comprehensive, hands-on education that prepares students for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. With experienced instructors, high NCLEX pass rates, and competitive career opportunities, the program is an excellent starting point for those looking to enter the nursing profession.
Program Duration and Credits:
- The program takes 2 years to complete.
- Students must complete 107 credits for the AAS degree.
Mt. Hood Community College
The Nursing Program at Mt. Hood Community College provides a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse, with options to pursue a BSN through partner universities. It combines academic coursework with clinical practice, offering strong employment prospects and a rigorous, supportive educational environment.
Program Structure:
- The program spans four years. The first year consists of pre-program courses and applying for the nursing program.
- In the second and third years, students take nursing courses at MHCC and prepare for the Registered Nurse National Council Licensure Examination (RN-NCLEX).
- An optional fourth year allows students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) or another transfer partner.
Accreditation:
- MHCC’s nursing program is part of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education (OCNE) and is approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN).
- After completing the program, graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse in Oregon through the OSBN.
In this section, we’ll dive deeper into the top CNA schools in the Portland area and other notable schools throughout the state. Choosing the right school and program is key to laying a strong foundation for your CNA career. Let’s explore some of the best options available in Oregon.
Portland Area CNA Schools
The Portland area boasts several highly-regarded CNA schools, such as Clackamas Nursing Assistant Training and Portland Community College.
Portland Community College
The Nursing Program at PCC equips students with the essential skills and qualifications to become Registered Nurses, offering robust career prospects in a wide range of healthcare settings. With a strong NCLEX pass rate and a projected increase in job opportunities, this program is a solid foundation for those pursuing a nursing career.
Program Overview:
- The program prepares students with the necessary knowledge and skills for an entry-level job as a Registered Nurse (RN).
- The program focuses on preparing students to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
- Over 95% of PCC nursing graduates have passed the NCLEX in the past three years.
Other Notable CNA Schools in Oregon
Beyond the Portland area, Oregon is home to other esteemed CNA schools, such as Oregon Coast Community College, situated in Newport, Oregon. These schools offer a range of CNA programs, including both online and in-person courses, providing students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting.
Preparing for the Oregon CNA Exam
Proper preparation for the Oregon CNA exam is crucial for success. The exam, administered by D & S Diversified Technologies, consists of two sections: knowledge and skills. To ensure that you are well-prepared for the exam, it’s essential to take advantage of free practice tests and skills test preparation resources.
Skills Test Preparation
Preparing for the skills test portion of the Oregon CNA exam can be accomplished through various resources, such as online practice exams, CNA skills test practice videos and study guides. Additionally, completing training at a state-approved school and reviewing the Oregon Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook can also be beneficial.
Employment Opportunities for CNAs in Oregon
As a CNA in Oregon, you have numerous employment opportunities in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals, CNAs can expect a thriving job market and competitive salaries in Oregon, with an average annual remuneration of $30,722.
Skilled Nursing Facilities
CNAs play a vital role in skilled nursing facilities, providing basic care to patients, such as feeding, bathing, dressing, and assisting with daily activities. In addition to these responsibilities, CNAs are also tasked with taking vital signs, serving meals, making beds, keeping rooms tidy, and recording patient observations.
Working in a skilled nursing facility can be a rewarding experience, as you contribute to the well-being of patients and support their recovery. With a positive job outlook and an average salary of $31,000 per year for CNAs in Oregon, skilled nursing facilities offer promising career opportunities.
Salary Expectations for CNAs in Oregon
The average hourly wage for a CNA in Oregon is $18.01 and the average annual remuneration is $38,830. This competitive salary reflects the high demand for skilled CNAs in the state and the valuable role they play in the healthcare industry. Keep in mind that salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and type of healthcare facility.
Free CNA Classes in Oregon
For those seeking a more cost-effective route to becoming a CNA, free CNA classes are available in Oregon at various locations, such as Clatsop Care Center, Marquis Companies, and through community colleges and technical schools. These free classes provide an excellent opportunity for aspiring CNAs to gain the necessary skills and knowledge without incurring significant expenses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) Pathways
For those interested in furthering their career in the healthcare industry, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) pathways are available in Oregon. LPN programs can be found at community colleges and vocational schools, such as the Lane Licensed Practical Nursing Program, which prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam to become a Practical Nurse (LPN). An accelerated LPN program is the fastest way to become an LPN, taking as little as six months.
Summary
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Oregon is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice with numerous growth opportunities. This comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to navigate the certification process, choose the right training program, prepare for the exam, and explore employment opportunities in various healthcare settings.
Explore Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Neighboring States
If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the Western U.S., exploring training programs in neighboring states can help you find the best opportunities to achieve your career goals. Approved CNA programs are available in:
These programs emphasize essential skills like patient care, infection control, and communication, ensuring you’re well-prepared for certification exams and ready to succeed in a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the CNA program in Oregon?
The CNA program in Oregon typically takes between 6 to 12 weeks to complete. It is a 172-hour course, with 88 classroom hours and 84 clinical hours meeting the Oregon State Board of Nursing’s requirements for nursing assistant training.
What’s the fastest you can become a CNA?
For those who want to become a CNA as quickly as possible, it is possible to complete the required coursework in just a few weeks. The fastest way to become a CNA is to enrol in an accelerated CNA program and take advantage of the online course components.
This way, you can get your certification in a matter of weeks.
