If you’re looking to start a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the Fort Myers and Cape Coral area of Florida, it can be overwhelming to navigate the various training options available. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide outlining all CNA class options located in Fort Myers and Cape Coral.
In addition to providing information on CNA requirements and training programs, we’ll also dive into the employment and salary data for CNAs in the region to help you make an informed decision about your career path.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or considering a career change, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to start your journey as a CNA in Fort Myers and Cape Coral.
Fort Myers Technical College
The Nursing Assistant (Articulated) program at Fort Myers Technical College (FMTC) offers a comprehensive 165-hour curriculum, making it an excellent entry point into the healthcare field. The program combines 90 hours of basic healthcare worker training with 75 hours of Nurse Aide and Orderly (Articulated) training. This holistic approach provides students with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for various healthcare settings, including both acute and long-term care. A unique feature of this program is that students who complete the 90 hours of basic healthcare worker training are not required to retake this course if they decide to further their education with FMTC.
Enrollment Process
To enroll in this program, there are several steps to follow:
- Attend an Information Session.
- Take the CASAS test if applicable.
- Obtain official transcripts (high school, GED, college, etc.) if applicable.
- Apply for financial aid (official transcripts are required).
- Provide the necessary residency documents.
- Meet with an Admissions Officer to complete your application.
- Complete the application packet.
- Pay a $45 application fee.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must be 18 years of age or possess a high school diploma or equivalent by the first day of class. Additionally, students involved in direct patient care are required to have immunization against hepatitis B or sign a declination statement. The approximate cost for hepatitis B immunization is $175. A two-step skin test for TB and required titers are necessary before the clinical part of the program, with an approximate cost of $45.
Program Highlights
The Nursing Assistant (Articulated) program aims to prepare students for employment as nursing assistants in a variety of healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, and patients’ homes. Successful completion of the program qualifies students to take the state certification exam as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
The curriculum covers a range of topics, including interpersonal skills, medical terminology, legal and ethical responsibilities, safe and efficient work habits, gerontology, nutrition, basic patient care, pet-facilitated therapy, restorative activities, health and safety (including CPR – Basic Life Support), and employability skills.
Program Structure
- HSC0003: Basic Healthcare Worker (90 hours)
- HCP0121: Nurse Aide and Orderly (Articulated) (75 hours)
The program spans approximately 6 weeks, with classroom hours from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and clinical hours from 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Cost
The approximate cost for the Nursing Assistant (Articulated) program at FMTC is $1,261.
Certifications and Career Opportunities
Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Florida Nurse Aide Exam, a requirement for employment as a nursing assistant in nursing homes or senior living communities. Graduates of this program can expect to earn a starting salary of $12+ per hour in healthcare industries such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, and Hope Hospice.
Instructor
The program is led by Jessica Osborn, RN, who can be reached at (239) 334-4544 ext. 512 or via email at [email protected].
If you’re looking to kickstart a career in healthcare and are eager to help people in need, the Nursing Assistant (Articulated) program at FMTC is a promising option to consider. It equips students with the knowledge, skills, and certifications required for a fulfilling career in the healthcare sector.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,261 |
| Program Duration | 6 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Mon – Fri: 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Classroom) 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Clinical) |
| Prerequisites | Age 18 or high school graduate |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible to take the Florida Nurse Aide Exam |
| Location | 3800 Michigan Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33916 |
| Phone | (239) 334-4544 ext. 512 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | FMTC Nursing Assistant (Articulated) |
| Job Placement | Yes |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | No |
Academy For Nursing And Health Occupations
The Nursing Assistant Program, offered by Horizon Healthcare Institute, is designed for those seeking a rewarding career in healthcare. Nursing Assistants play a crucial role in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, physician’s offices, and in-home care, offering essential support to medical staff and patients. This program equips students with the skills needed for certification and employment as nursing assistants.
Program Requirements
To enroll in this program, applicants must be at least 17 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. A Social Security Card is also required. If you don’t possess a high school diploma or GED, you may need to take the TABE test.
Extensive Curriculum
The Nursing Assistant program covers a range of topics, including nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and infection control. Students not only learn these skills in a classroom setting but also gain valuable hands-on experience during clinical activities.
Diverse Career Opportunities
Upon program completion, graduates have a variety of career paths to explore. Nursing Assistants can find employment in nursing homes, hospitals, mental health facilities, assisted living facilities, and private homes. Additionally, Horizon Healthcare Institute serves as a State Testing site, allowing program participants to conveniently take their certification exams on campus.
Campus Location
The program is available at multiple locations, including Fort Myers, Port Charlotte, and Melbourne, Florida. The Fort Myers campus is situated at 4048 Evans Avenue, Suite 301, Fort Myers, FL 33901. For inquiries and enrollment, you can contact them at [email protected] or by phone at (239) 939-1992.
The Nursing Assistant Program at Horizon Healthcare Institute provides a solid foundation for those aspiring to become nursing assistants. With its hands-on learning opportunities and diverse career options, it’s a practical choice for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field. Whether you’re just starting your career journey or seeking a new path, this program offers a comprehensive and accessible route to certification and employment in the healthcare sector.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Contact the program for current fees |
| Program Duration | Information Not Provided |
| Class Schedules | Check with school for current schedules |
| Prerequisites | 17 years old or older High school diploma or GED certificate Social Security Card TABE test may be required without HS/GED |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible to take certification exam |
| Location | 4048 Evans Avenue, Suite 301, Fort Myers, FL 33901 |
| Phone | (239) 939-1992 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Horizon Healthcare Institute Nursing Assistant Program |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | No |
Cape Coral Technical College
Cape Coral Technical College offers two types of Nursing Assistant Programs: Articulated and Long Term Care. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared caregivers and are eligible to take the Florida State Nursing Certification Exam.
Comprehensive Training
The program is structured to provide students with hands-on, personalized instruction in small classes, empowering them to become competent and compassionate Nursing Assistants. Students gain practical experience working directly with patients and nurses in hospitals and various patient care facilities.
High-Demand Career Opportunities
The healthcare industry is in high demand for skilled Nursing Assistants. Cape Coral Technical College’s approved Nursing Assistant Program not only qualifies you for hospital positions but also prepares you for a rewarding career in this dynamic field.
Program Details
The Nursing Assistant Articulated program spans 165 clock hours, with an estimated total cost of $1,301.00. It’s approximately a 6-week course. Notably, students completing the 90 hours of basic healthcare worker training within this program can skip this course when pursuing most Health Science programs at CCTC.
Class Schedules
For your convenience, classes are held from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm, Monday through Friday, with clinical hours beginning at 6:30 am (ending hours vary).
Course Content
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including safe and efficient work practices, legal and ethical responsibilities, basic patient care, care of the elderly patient, nutrition, and restorative activities. The course consists of 90 hours for Basic Healthcare Worker training and 75 hours for Nurse Aid and Orderly (Articulated) training, including 40 hours of clinical experience.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must be 18 years of age, high school graduates, or have an equivalent qualification by the first day of class. Additionally, due to OSHA regulations, all students involved in direct patient care must either have immunization against hepatitis B or sign a declination statement. The cost for this immunization is approximately $175. Immunizations, including MMR, Varicella, and the flu vaccine, along with a two-step skin test for TB, are due two weeks before the class start date. All Health Science Education programs require applicants to complete a drug screen and Level 2 background screen two weeks before admission.
Certifications and Accreditation
Cape Coral Technical College’s Nursing Assistant program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. Upon successful completion, students receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the Florida Certified Nursing Assistant State Exam, a requirement for employment at Lee Health and other healthcare facilities as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Additionally, other certificates awarded after successful completion include Cape Coral Technical College’s Certificate of Completion for Basic Healthcare Worker and Nurse Aide and Orderly (Articulated), as well as American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Campus Location
The program is based at:
Cape Coral Technical College 360 Santa Barbara Blvd. N Cape Coral, FL 33993 Phone: 239-574-4440
Cape Coral Technical College’s Nursing Assistant Program offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to becoming a qualified Nursing Assistant, preparing you for a fulfilling career in healthcare. With small class sizes, a diverse curriculum, and ample clinical experience, this program provides the necessary training and skills to excel in the healthcare industry.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,301 |
| Program Duration | 6 weeks |
| Class Schedules | 8:00 am – 2:30 pm, Monday – Friday (Class) Clinical hours vary |
| Prerequisites | 18 years of age or high school graduate or equivalent Immunization against hepatitis B and TB test Drug screen, and background check |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible for Florida Certified Nursing Assistant State Exam |
| Location | 360 Santa Barbara Blvd. N, Cape Coral, FL 33993 |
| Phone | 239-574-4440 |
| Website | Cape Coral Technical College Nursing Assistant Program |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | No |
Fort Myers-Cape Coral Requirements For CNAs
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Fort Myers or Cape Coral, applicants are required by the Florida Board of Nursing to pass a background screening and meet certain admission requirements for CNA programs.
Applicants can take the nursing assistant competency examination without completing an approved training program, but they must achieve a minimum score on the written and skills-demonstration portions of the test. They must also be at least 18 years of age or have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Additionally, applicants must use a Livescan service provider to have their fingerprints submitted electronically to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for a criminal history check. Applicants with prior criminal convictions must submit several documents, including a self-explanation, final dispositions or arrest records, completion of probation or sanctions, and letters of recommendation.
Employment & Salary Data
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were a total of 2,650 Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) employed in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers regional area. These individuals earned an average annual salary of $33,780 with an average hourly wage of $16.24.
When compared to the average salary and hourly wage for CNAs in Florida as a whole, it is clear that CNAs in Cape Coral and Fort Myers are making significantly more. The BLS reports that the average annual salary for CNAs in Florida is $33,390 with an average hourly wage of $16.05
The difference in wages can likely be attributed to a number of factors, including the cost of living in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area and the demand for CNAs in this region. With a higher cost of living, employers may need to offer higher wages in order to attract and retain qualified workers. Additionally, if there is a higher demand for CNAs in this area, employers may need to offer higher wages in order to compete for workers.
Regardless of the specific reasons for the difference in wages, it is clear that CNAs in Cape Coral and Fort Myers are earning higher salaries and hourly wages than their counterparts in other parts of Florida. This may make the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area a more attractive place for CNAs to work, particularly for those who are looking for higher pay and better job opportunities.