Though many view the state of Idaho as a relatively wild and uninhabited place, there are many urban areas. This means that the prospects for working as a CNA are good. In fact, the state anticipates a bit of a shortage in this field in the coming years, and that promises a lot of job opportunities for anyone who completes their CNA classes in Boise, Idaho.
Finding Information about CNA Jobs in Boise, ID
If you already have an idea about the type of CNA work you want to do in Boise, you will still have to verify that such positions are available. A good place to get a very broad view of the current job market is the Indeed.com for the region. If you are already sure about the work or position you desire, you can also submit your information and requirements to one of the many medical staffing services that fill vacancies in the Boise area. Some of the top names to work with include:
CNA Classes and Licensing Requirements in Boise
Before you can begin working in the lucrative field of the CNA, however, you do have to be sure that your training and credentials are in line with the mandatory state guidelines. This means you have to have the appropriate CNA training through one of the approved programs in Boise, pass the state mandated test, and submit to any criminal background checks when required.
In Idaho the state guidelines for certified nursing assistants are almost identical to federal recommendations. This means at least 120 hours of CNA classes and clinical work. Normally, the bulk of the training is done in a classroom setting while the balance of the work is done in an on the job or clinical location. Once you complete and pass all of the classes in the program (which can take from three to eight months according to the school you choose), you can then qualify to sit for the mandatory exam to become licensed.
This is the National Nursing Assistant Assessment Exam, but testing programs are overseen and accredited through the Idaho Board of Health. You must get a passing grade if you are to be listed on the Idaho Nursing Aide Registry.
Key CNA Training Programs in Boise
The state of Idaho has approved a very limited number of CNA programs. The list of pre-approved programs appears at their website, and the training centers offering CNA classes in Boise include:
Key Employers to Know
Naturally, when you have completed your CNA classes, training and certification it does not automatically guarantee that you will find precisely the job in the area of CNA work that you want. The following large scale employers are a great place to get experience, and most of them are known for having great salary and benefits opportunities as well. They include:
- St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center
- St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Salary Information
It is important to keep the context of your location in mind as you read the salary details for CNAs in Idaho. This is because the state has a lower cost of living than the national average, and this means that salaries are lower too. According to PayScale.com, the median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Boise, ID is $30,620, as of August 10, 2020, with a range usually between $25,443-$36,714.
Key Skills Learned in CNA Training
What will you learn in your CNA classes as you train to be a professional certified nursing assistant? Your training is going to vary according to the program and goals you have (though it will meet federal standards), and most CNAs in Idaho must take classes in the following:
- How to take vital signs;
- Basic CPR;
- Lifting and moving techniques (also known as transfer);
- How to listen and respond to common patient concerns, and how to communicate this to physicians and nurses;
- How to properly toilet and dress their patients; and
- How to clean, bathe, feed, and generally care for patients in many settings.
Of course the key skill is patience and compassion. This is a very rewarding career for those who like to help others, and there are many ways to do this in Idaho.