Paradise Valley Community College's Nurse Assisting program offers a structured and hands-on educational experience designed to prepare students for a career in healthcare as a nurse assistant. Combining classroom learning with extensive clinical practice, the program ensures that students gain practical, job-ready skills that set them apart from other entry-level candidates. Below is a comprehensive look at what this program offers, including the schedule, curriculum highlights, and what students can expect upon completion.
Program Overview and Curriculum
The Nurse Assisting program at Paradise Valley Community College provides students with a Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting. This certification qualifies students to take the state certification exams, which are a requirement for employment in many healthcare settings. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction, clinical laboratory practice, and real-world experience in long-term and acute care environments. The goal is to equip students with a full range of foundational skills needed to perform routine and essential care duties under the supervision of licensed nurses.
Class Schedule and Program Duration
The program is offered in a “fast-track” format, designed for completion within two semesters or less, allowing students to enter the workforce quickly. Students should expect a rigorous schedule that includes daytime or evening classes (specific times vary each term). Clinical rotations require a time commitment, with students working directly with patients under supervised conditions to gain real-world experience. This fast-paced structure suits students who are eager to enter the healthcare field quickly but still need thorough preparation for certification and employment.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Acquired
Throughout the program, students gain critical skills in providing safe and compassionate care. The curriculum emphasizes therapeutic and preventative care practices, ethical handling of patient information, and effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams. Students also learn to integrate technology in patient care and are trained in a variety of nurse assisting tasks, such as vital sign monitoring, patient mobility, and basic hygiene assistance. Graduates leave the program with the skills to perform confidently and professionally in a range of care settings.
Health and Safety Requirements
In addition to classroom and clinical training, students must meet specific health and safety standards to participate in the program. These requirements include a Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, a negative urine drug screen, and adherence to Maricopa County Community College District's background check policy. Meeting these requirements ensures that students are prepared to work safely and ethically with vulnerable populations.
Accreditation and Certification Pathway
The Nurse Assisting program at Paradise Valley Community College is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. This accreditation reflects the program's adherence to state standards for nurse assistant training. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Arizona state certification exams. It is important to note, however, that admission or completion of the program does not guarantee certification or licensure. The Arizona State Board of Nursing is solely responsible for determining eligibility based on the Nurse Practice Act and relevant regulations.
Financial Aid and Cost
While this program is not eligible for Title IV Federal Financial Aid, students may explore other financial aid options, such as state grants, scholarships, or private assistance. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss these possibilities with the financial aid office. In terms of tuition, the program's fees are affordable compared to other local training options, making it an accessible choice for individuals seeking entry into the healthcare field.
Career Pathways and Job Placement
Paradise Valley Community College's Nurse Assisting program does not offer direct job placement services. However, graduates are prepared to work in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. The skills acquired in this program are applicable across many healthcare settings, allowing students to seek employment immediately after certification. For those who wish to continue their education, PVCC also provides guidance on prerequisites for advanced nursing programs, such as Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees, which can further enhance career opportunities.
With a comprehensive approach to nurse assisting, Paradise Valley Community College's program provides students with both the knowledge and practical skills to succeed in a healthcare career. The combination of affordable tuition, a fast-paced format, and Arizona State Board of Nursing approval makes this program a strong choice for prospective students comparing training options.
