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Kern Valley Medical College has several ongoing CNA classes, both full and part time.
The CNA program at Kern Valley Medical College is a part-time evening program. The program runs Monday through Friday from 5:30pm to 9:00pm for 8 weeks.
The cost of the program is $2,000.
Their program is approved by California's Department of Public Health(CDPH).
Cellan Central Valley College (CCVC), situated on H Street in Bakersfield, offers two distinct CNA programs: a 23-day full-time course and a 46-day part-time course. CCVC provides various start dates throughout the year to accommodate different schedules.
Their CNA program is accredited by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). It is mandatory for all accredited CNA programs in California to receive approval from the CDPH. The program includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised hands-on externship.
Upon completing either the 23-day or 46-day program, graduates are eligible to take the California CNA certification exam.
CCVC also offers several other programs, including a 40-hour Home Health Aide (HHA) course, a 24-hour Restorative Nursing Assistant (RNA) course, a 3-day CNA certification review, and a 4-hour American Heart Association BLS CPR class.
Classroom instruction takes place from 8:30 AM to 1:05 PM every Wednesday, with practical training at a local skilled nursing facility every Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Bakersfield College (BC) offers 6 CNA courses each semester. One advantage of completing your CNA program at BC is the flexible schedule, which includes both day and evening classes. However, these classes tend to fill up quickly.
If you are a returning student at BC, you are more likely to secure a spot. New students might find themselves on a waiting list due to high demand.
There are no prerequisites for attending the program, but BC strongly recommends that prospective students take MEDS B37 - Medical Terminology before enrolling in the class.
Bakersfield Adult School has a 12 week, 350 hour nurse assistant program. After completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the California state CNA exam.
CNA certification is required to enroll in Bakersfield College's nursing programs(LVN & RN).
Bakersfield Adult School offers 3 CNA programs per year.
The cost of attending the CNA program is $800. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
Bakersfield Adult School has several other healthcare programs available:
The CNA program at Kern High School District Regional Occupational Center (KHSD ROP) is a one-year, part-time course. Students complete the program by passing the state CNA examination.
The CNA program at Kern High School District Regional Occupational Center (KHSD ROP) is a part-time, one-year course. Students complete the program by successfully passing the state CNA examination.
This program is EXCLUSIVELY available to high school juniors. However, other offerings at KHSD ROP are open to both juniors AND seniors.
During the 60-hour classroom phase, students explore topics such as medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, and effective team communication.
The hands-on "lab" portion includes clinical rotations at a skilled nursing facility, giving students practical, real-world experience.
Additional programs at KHSD ROP include:
The CNA program at Cerro Coso Community College (CCCC) is designed to be completed in one semester. Students who earn a grade of "C" or higher receive 5.5 college credits.
After successfully completing the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the certification exam approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
The program is divided into two components: classroom lectures, which can be attended either in person or online, and a 108-hour externship at a local skilled nursing facility.
CCCC offers two medical assisting tracks: a two-year associate degree and a one-year certificate program. Additionally, there are five other medical assistant programs in Bakersfield. CCCC also provides a three-semester LVN program, which is one of the six LVN programs in Bakersfield.
KVMC has a 4 1/2 month medical assistant program. The program is 5:30pm to 9:00pm Monday through Thursday.
Students will learn how to properly use the ICD-10 billing & coding sysyem, drawing blood, EKG procedures, and more.
Students will also participate in a 160 hour medical assistant externship program. This externship gives students hands-on practical experience working in a healthcare environment.
Medical Billing & Coding programs typically include an externship program to introduce students to a real world working environment. KVMC has a 4 1/2 month billing & coding program that includes a 200 hour externship.
Students will learn about how to conduct a billing audit, file claims for reimbursement, and assigning codes for diagnoses and procedures.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs both provide essential pathways into the healthcare field, but they differ significantly in terms of scope, duration, and responsibilities. CNA programs, such as the ones outlined in these CNA Programs, typically focus on basic patient care and can be completed in a relatively short period, often ranging from 4 to 12 weeks. This makes CNA programs an attractive option for individuals looking to quickly enter the workforce and start gaining experience in healthcare settings.
On the other hand, LVN programs offer a more comprehensive nursing education, usually requiring about one year of full-time study to complete. These programs cover a broader range of medical and nursing topics, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed for more advanced patient care. The in-depth nature of LVN programs, such as the ones available in these LVN programs, prepares graduates for a wider variety of clinical responsibilities, including administering medications, performing diagnostic tests, and developing patient care plans.
The clinical experience required in CNA programs is typically less intensive than that in LVN programs. CNA students usually complete a combination of classroom instruction and a supervised externship at a local healthcare facility. This training prepares them to assist patients with daily living activities, take vital signs, and support the nursing staff. In contrast, LVN students undergo more rigorous clinical training that includes specific medical procedures, patient assessments, and hands-on management of patient care. This extensive training is crucial for their roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare environments.
Choosing between a CNA and an LVN program depends largely on one's career goals, time commitment, and level of interest in nursing. CNA programs are ideal for those who wish to enter the healthcare field quickly and start working in a supportive role. In contrast, individuals who aspire to take on more advanced nursing duties and responsibilities may find LVN programs more suitable. Both pathways offer valuable opportunities in healthcare, but they cater to different professional ambitions and educational needs.
The salary for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) varies significantly due to the differences in their education, training, and job responsibilities. CNAs, who primarily provide basic care and support to patients, typically earn less than LVNs. The average salary for CNAs is influenced by factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility where they work. Generally, CNAs earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $18 per hour, translating to an annual salary of approximately $25,000 to $37,000.
In contrast, LVNs, who have more advanced training and a broader scope of practice, command higher salaries. LVNs are responsible for a wider range of clinical tasks, including administering medications, performing diagnostic tests, and contributing to patient care plans. The average LVN salary ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, reflecting the higher level of responsibility and expertise required for this role.
With the increasing demand for flexible learning options, both CNA and LVN programs have adapted to offer online components. Online CNA programs provide students with the theoretical knowledge needed for certification through virtual lectures, readings, and interactive activities. However, due to the hands-on nature of the profession, clinical training and practical experience must still be completed in person at an approved healthcare facility. This blend of online coursework and in-person practice allows students to balance their studies with other commitments.
Similarly, online LVN programs have become more prevalent, offering a combination of online theoretical instruction and in-person clinical practice. These online LVN programs cater to individuals who need a more flexible schedule while pursuing their vocational nursing education. They typically include virtual classes, simulations, and assignments that can be completed remotely, complemented by clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities.