The Philadelphia Academy for Nurse Aide Training (PANAT) provides a thorough and well-structured nurse aide program, tailored for students aiming to achieve certification and start a career in healthcare. The program is specifically designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in Pennsylvania's nurse aide competency exam and meet state requirements for employment. With a curriculum that balances theoretical instruction and hands-on training, PANAT ensures that students are prepared for both the certification process and the day-to-day realities of the profession.
Comprehensive Curriculum and Skill Development
PANAT's curriculum covers essential areas, ensuring a well-rounded education. Students learn core concepts such as infection control, safety procedures, client rights, nutrition, and emergency response. Additionally, the program emphasizes critical skills for patient care, including personal care routines, restorative techniques, behavioral health, and care for cognitively impaired clients. Students will also undergo CPR, First Aid, and Alzheimer's and dementia care training, enhancing their qualifications. This comprehensive approach provides students with a solid foundation, preparing them to offer compassionate, professional care in various healthcare settings.
Program Format and Duration
The PANAT nurse aide training program spans four weeks, offering an intensive yet manageable schedule that balances theory and clinical practice. Classes are in-person, providing direct interaction with instructors and hands-on training that is essential for mastering patient care skills. PANAT's program does not offer online options, allowing students to fully engage in real-time with instructors, peers, and clinical experiences. The schedule is designed to cater to students who can dedicate their time to this fast-paced format, ensuring they are prepared to meet certification requirements quickly.
Tuition and Additional Fees
For students interested in financial planning, PANAT offers clear tuition and fee information. The base tuition is $1,000, with additional fees for registration, materials, textbooks, and optional services, such as background checks and extra tutoring. A one-time registration fee of $150 is required, with additional costs for books, lab, and equipment fees totaling approximately $1,330, including essential supplies provided by the academy. Though financial aid or scholarships are not directly offered, PANAT assists students in applying for employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement for those securing positions in Medicare or Medicaid-supported facilities.
Career Support and Job Placement Assistance
PANAT goes beyond training by providing job placement support for students who pass the Pennsylvania competency examination. The academy has partnerships with local healthcare facilities and invites potential employers to connect with students during the program. While PANAT cannot guarantee job placement, this support is invaluable for new graduates entering the workforce. Graduates are eligible to work in a variety of healthcare environments, including nursing homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.
Instructors and Their Expertise
The faculty at PANAT consists of experienced healthcare professionals committed to student success. Each instructor brings practical experience from the healthcare field, offering insights that enrich the learning experience. Their backgrounds enable them to provide relevant, real-world knowledge, preparing students for challenges they may encounter in the workplace. Instructors also work closely with students, providing support and mentorship throughout the program to ensure skill proficiency and confidence.
Overall, PANAT offers an in-depth and structured program ideal for those ready to start a fulfilling career. The academy's intensive four-week format, combined with job placement support, experienced instructors, and a practical curriculum, sets students up for success in Pennsylvania's healthcare field. By completing the program, students gain valuable skills, certifications, and confidence to embark on their career journey in healthcare.
