The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is a comprehensive training course designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified nursing assistants. The program is approved by the Florida Department of Health and is designed to meet the requirements of the Florida Nursing Assistant Certification Exam. In this guide, we will provide an overview of the FSCJ CNA program, including the certification process, program requirements, and career opportunities.
Program Overview
The FSCJ CNA program is a 120-hour course that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing assistant care. The program is divided into 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training. Students learn about patient care, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology, as well as communication skills and patient rights. The program is designed to prepare students for the Florida Nursing Assistant Certification Exam, which is administered by the American Red Cross.
Program Requirements
To be eligible for the FSCJ CNA program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a background check and drug screen
- Provide proof of immunization and health insurance
- Complete a physical exam and provide proof of medical clearance
Students must also complete the required coursework, which includes:
- Nursing Assistant Theory (40 hours)
- Nursing Assistant Clinical (40 hours)
- Medical Terminology (10 hours)
- Anatomy and Physiology (10 hours)
- Patient Care Skills (20 hours)
Certification Process
To become certified as a nursing assistant in Florida, students must pass the Florida Nursing Assistant Certification Exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a skills test. The written test covers topics such as patient care, medical terminology, and anatomy, while the skills test evaluates students' ability to perform specific nursing assistant skills, such as taking vital signs and assisting with patient transfers.
| Exam Component | Passing Score |
|---|---|
| Written Test | 75% |
| Skills Test | 80% |
Career Opportunities
Certified nursing assistants play a vital role in the healthcare industry, providing basic patient care and supporting registered nurses and other healthcare professionals. With a certification from the FSCJ CNA program, students can pursue career opportunities in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Assisted living facilities
- Home health agencies
- Rehabilitation centers
The demand for certified nursing assistants is expected to grow in the coming years, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 9% increase in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.
Salary and Benefits
Certified nursing assistants can expect to earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Average salary: 29,000 - 40,000 per year
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for advancement and professional development
What is the cost of the FSCJ CNA program?
+The cost of the FSCJ CNA program varies depending on the student's residency status and other factors. However, the program is generally affordable, with tuition ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
How long does the FSCJ CNA program take to complete?
+The FSCJ CNA program is a 120-hour course that can be completed in as little as 4-6 weeks.
Is the FSCJ CNA program accredited?
+Yes, the FSCJ CNA program is accredited by the Florida Department of Health and the American Red Cross.
In conclusion, the FSCJ CNA program is a comprehensive training course that provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified nursing assistants. With a certification from the FSCJ CNA program, students can pursue career opportunities in a variety of settings and enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package.
