The UNLV Continuing Education Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program, offered in collaboration with the Perry Foundation Academy of Health, provides a robust and comprehensive education designed to prepare students for success in the healthcare industry. This program is meticulously structured to equip students with essential patient care skills through a blend of online and in-person instruction, making it ideal for those who require flexibility in their learning schedule.
Program Format and Structure
The program spans 96 hours over a concentrated four-week period, offering a hybrid learning model. Students will engage in both online coursework and hands-on clinical practice. This format allows students to learn theoretical concepts at their own pace while gaining practical experience in a real-world healthcare setting. Classes are conducted off-site at the Perry Foundation Academy of Health, which is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including fully functional skills labs and multiple classrooms designed to accommodate up to 30 students.
Course Content and Curriculum
The curriculum covers a wide range of critical topics essential for a career in healthcare. Students will be trained in infection control, communication, interpersonal skills, safety procedures, personal care techniques, psychosocial needs, and basic nursing skills. The program also emphasizes quality improvement and patient rights, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded professionals ready to enter the workforce.
Clinical education is a cornerstone of this program. Students will be placed in various clinical settings, including long-term care facilities and specialty hospitals, where they will apply the skills learned in the classroom under the supervision of experienced instructors and healthcare professionals. This real-world experience is invaluable, providing students with the confidence and competence required to excel in patient care.
Expert Instructors
The program is led by a team of highly qualified instructors with extensive experience in healthcare education. Key faculty members include Robert Kidd, the School Director and President/CEO of Perry Foundation, and Sara Hartwich, RN, who serves as the Academic Director and Program Coordinator. Each instructor brings a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise, ensuring that students receive top-notch education and guidance throughout their training.
Accreditation and Certification
The program is approved by the Nevada State Board of Nursing and licensed by the Commission on Postsecondary Education. Upon completion, students will be fully prepared to sit for the Nevada State Board of Nursing exam, a critical step toward licensure. The Perry Foundation Academy of Health has also been authorized to offer 100% Clinical Simulations, which ensures that students can complete their education even if access to clinical sites is restricted.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The total cost of the program is $2,575, which includes all necessary materials such as textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, and certification exam fees. The program also provides a Basic Life Support (BLS) course, background checks, and other essential supplies like stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs. Students are required to pay a $500 deposit upon registration, with the remaining balance due on the fourth day of the program. Financial assistance may be available through Workforce Connection training funds, and prospective students are encouraged to inquire about eligibility requirements.
Post-Graduation Support and Job Placement
While the Perry Foundation Academy of Health does not guarantee job placement, they offer extensive employment assistance to graduates. This includes job lead referrals and job skills development services to help students transition smoothly from education to employment. The program's strong reputation and extensive network within the healthcare community provide graduates with valuable opportunities as they begin their careers.
This program is ideal for individuals seeking a comprehensive, accredited education that combines the flexibility of online learning with the essential hands-on experience needed for a successful career in healthcare. Graduates of this program will not only be prepared to pass the state certification exam but will also be well-equipped to provide compassionate, competent care in a variety of healthcare settings.
