Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Erie, Pennsylvania, holds the promise of a deeply rewarding journey within the healthcare realm. Erie, situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Erie, offers an environment rich in compassion and dedication to healthcare excellence. Our dedicated page stands as a guiding beacon for those with aspirations to enter this noble profession, presenting a comprehensive directory of accredited CNA programs available throughout the state of Pennsylvania. Within Erie’s dynamic healthcare landscape, aspiring CNAs will find educational pathways that are carefully crafted to align with local healthcare standards and needs. As individuals explore this page, they will uncover educational opportunities that not only equip them with the requisite skills and knowledge but also immerse them in the unique healthcare ethos of Erie. Additionally, this resource delves into the myriad of career prospects awaiting CNAs in this vibrant community, fostering a sense of purpose and commitment to the well-being of others within this close-knit and compassionate city by the lake.
The following list includes CNA programs in Erie that are approved by the state of Pennsylvania.
| Program | Address | Zip Code | Phone Number |
| Presbyterian Senior Care Network | 6351 West Lake Rd | 16505 | (814) 314-1612 |
| Walnut Creek Healthcare & Rehab | 4850 Zuck Road | 16506 | (814) 541-5950 |
| HVA Senior Living Alliance (multiple locations) |
4631 West Lake Rd | 16505 | (814) 833-1609 |
| LECOM Sr. Living | 322 Washington Place | 16505 | (814) 868-3470 |
Requirements for CNA Classes in Erie
- Age and Education: Candidates should be at least 16 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent, ensuring a foundational level of education.
- Approved Training Program: Enroll in a Pennsylvania state-approved CNA training program. These programs are meticulously designed to align with Erie’s healthcare standards and typically span 4 to 12 weeks. They offer a comprehensive curriculum comprising both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
- Successful Program Completion: Diligently engage in and successfully complete the CNA training program. These programs are structured to equip you with essential practical skills and in-depth knowledge, tailored to Erie’s unique healthcare landscape.
- State Competency Exam: Following training, you’ll need to pass the Pennsylvania state competency examination. This comprehensive assessment evaluates both your theoretical understanding and practical skills as a nursing assistant, ensuring you’re well-prepared for real-world healthcare scenarios.
- Background Check: Be prepared to undergo a thorough background check. This crucial step is in place to safeguard the well-being of patients under your care and maintain the integrity of the healthcare profession.
- Registry Listing: Upon successfully passing the exam and background check, your name will be officially added to the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. This listing recognizes you as a qualified CNA in Erie, Pennsylvania, and is a key credential for employment in the region.
- Continuing Education: To uphold your certification, engage in ongoing continuing education. This ensures you stay current with the latest healthcare practices and innovations, renewing your certification as required by Erie’s healthcare standards.
These detailed steps ensure that aspiring CNAs in Erie are well-prepared and equipped to provide quality care to patients while meeting the specific healthcare needs of the region.
CNA Pay in Erie, Pennsylvania
In picturesque Erie, Pennsylvania, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) can anticipate earning an average hourly wage of $16.47, translating to an annual salary of approximately $34,250. This places Erie’s CNA salaries just slightly below the state average for Pennsylvania, which stands at $17.50 per hour or $36,400 annually. The relatively lower cost of living in Erie makes it an appealing place for CNAs to call home, with the potential to comfortably cover basic expenses such as housing, transportation, and groceries while still enjoying the region’s numerous recreational offerings, from exploring the scenic Presque Isle State Park to immersing in its vibrant cultural scene.
To boost their earnings potential further, CNAs in Erie can explore several strategies:
- Specialization: Earning additional certifications or focusing on specialized areas like gerontology or critical care can open doors to higher-paying positions.
- Experience: Accumulating diverse healthcare experience, whether in hospitals, nursing homes, or home healthcare settings, can enhance one’s value and qualify CNAs for more lucrative roles.
- Continuing Education: Keeping abreast of evolving healthcare practices and obtaining advanced certifications through ongoing education can elevate qualifications and lead to salary increments.
- Networking: Establishing a robust professional network within Erie’s healthcare community can present opportunities for well-paying positions and career advancement.
By incorporating these strategies, CNAs not only stand to improve their earning potential but also contribute more significantly to meeting the healthcare demands of Erie’s residents while enjoying a satisfying quality of life in this charming lakeside community.
| Metro Area | CNAs Employed | Avg. Hourly Wage | Avg. Annual Salary |
| Erie | 1,700 | $16.47 | $34,250 |
| Pennsylvania | 10,440 | $17.50 | $36,400 |
| United States | 1,310,090 | $17.41 | $36,220 |