Baltimore City Community College offers a robust Nursing Assistant/Geriatric Nursing Assistant program designed for individuals seeking to enter the healthcare industry. This program prepares students to work in both long-term and acute care settings, providing comprehensive training to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in patient care. The program is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing, ensuring high standards of education and training that meet state regulations.
Program Structure and Format
The program consists of 160 total hours, broken into three key components: 104 hours of classroom instruction, 40 hours of clinical training, and 16 hours of exam preparation for the Geriatric Nursing Assistant certification. The classroom instruction covers a wide range of essential topics, including anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, infection control, and patient care skills. During the 40-hour clinical experience, students apply their knowledge in a real-world healthcare setting, honing their skills under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Class Schedule and Duration
Classes are offered through the Workforce Development and Continuing Education department and typically follow a daytime schedule. Clinical training sessions are conducted from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., with 100% attendance required to complete the course. The structured format allows students to complete the program within a relatively short time frame, making it an attractive option for those looking to start working in healthcare as quickly as possible.
Accreditation and Credentials
This program is accredited by the Maryland Board of Nursing, ensuring that graduates meet the standards for state certification. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to take the Geriatric Nursing Assistant certification exam, earning the credentials necessary to begin their careers in nursing assistant roles. This accreditation is a crucial factor for prospective students to consider, as it reflects the quality and credibility of the training.
Cost, Financial Aid, and Job Placement
While specific tuition fees may vary, the program does not provide direct information on scholarships or financial aid options. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the college’s financial aid office to explore potential funding opportunities. Although job placement services are not explicitly mentioned, Baltimore City Community College has strong ties to the local healthcare industry, and many graduates find employment in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities shortly after completing the program.
Instructor Expertise
Instructors in the Nursing Assistant program bring a wealth of experience from various healthcare sectors, including long-term care, acute care, and geriatric nursing. Their expertise provides students with a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of patient care, preparing them for the challenges of working in diverse healthcare settings.
The Nursing Assistant/Geriatric Nursing Assistant program at Baltimore City Community College is ideal for those looking for a well-structured, accredited program with a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Graduates leave with the knowledge, skills, and certification needed to launch a successful career in healthcare, particularly in high-demand areas such as nursing homes and hospitals.
