Accelerated Certified Nursing Assistant
The Accelerated Certified Nursing Assistant program is a senior-only program designed to prepare students for employment as Certified Nurse Assistants during their first semester. Students will transition to a work-based learning experience at AMITA St. Joseph Hospital, along with additional lab skills and theory at Wilco during the second semester, focusing on sterile processing and healthcare ethics. The curriculum covers all standards and procedures outlined in the Illinois Department of Public Health Certified Nurse Aide Instruction Model. The State Nurse Aide Examination can be taken through this course after completing 40 hours of on-site clinical experience at a local nursing facility, and is included in the class structure if the student has a social security number. Students must have transportation to the clinical site, a physical exam, vaccination records, and a TB test completed before September 15th. Before starting the clinical experience, students must undergo a criminal background check for healthcare workers. Prior to beginning clinical at the hospital in the second semester, students will need a drug screening and proof of a flu shot. Students must maintain a minimum of 80% throughout the semester to remain eligible for Joliet Junior College credit, AMITA clinical, and the Illinois Department of Public Health Certified Nurse Aide Exam. Many medical-related college programs require clinical hours or CNA certification before admission. After completing this course, students can continue their education toward careers such as Registered Nurse, Physical Therapist, Respiratory Therapist, Ultrasound Technician, and more. Students are required to wear appropriate clothing at the clinical site.
Dual Credit: Joliet Junior College credit NA101 (6 credit hours) andCollege of DuPage SURGT1000, CSPD1111 (6 credit hrs)
Certifications may include: The American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) and IDPH State Certification.
Estimated cost: $150 student fee, $72 ($12/JJC credit hour), and an additional $85 for the State CNA exam in December
Guidance Notes: 30% of time in the lab. Daily assignments and weekly tests. Emphasis on human anatomy.
