Precertification of Nursing Assistant

The Precertification Nursing Assistant course is designed to prepare students for employment providing direct patient care in long term care facilities. There are no degree patterns or transfer majors in this area. Students desiring eligibility for certification testing must earn a grade of C or better on each test and complete the CDPH required training hours for the program (60 hours theory/100 hours clinical). Acceptance into the Precertification Nursing Assistant Training course is through an application process. The application packet consists of a completed application signed by the student and submission of transcripts or assessment results verifying completion of the course prerequisite. A physical examination and TB clearance are required (at the student's expense) prior to the first day of class. These must be current and within 3 months of the class start date. The student must be clear of any health conditions that could create a hazard to the student, fellow employees, or patients. Drug testing and background screening are required. Students must complete livescan fingerprinting prior to the first day of class. Criminal background clearance is required to become a CNA. Students must obtain an approved uniform and required patient care equipment, obtain a Basic Life Support certificate from the American Heart Association designated for Healthcare Providers and be responsible for transportation to and from clinical facilities. Upon successful completion of the 160 CDPH program, the student is eligible to take the state certification exam (student is responsible for testing fees) to become a CNA.