Choosing to enter the medical field as a CNA or an RN can be an excellent choice. Certified nurses and nursing aides are some of the most in-demand professionals in the world today, and you’ll find that you have plenty of options when it comes to employment, from nursing homes to world-class hospitals once you complete your CNA classes in San Francisco.
Where to Find Information about Nursing and CNA Jobs in San Francisco
Learning more about the availability of CNA and nursing jobs in the city of San Francisco is a good first step for aspiring nursing professionals. You’ll find plenty of information about nursing positions in the city online, particularly with some of the larger online job portals. These include:
CNA Classes and Licensing Requirements in San Francisco
Prior to embarking on a rewarding career as a CNA, you’ll need to know what training and licensing requirements are in place for San Francisco area professionals. San Francisco follows the guidelines put in place for the entire state of California (which are similar to those in the rest of the nation) where CNA training and licensing are concerned.
First, all aspiring certified nursing assistants in San Fransisco must undergo one of the CNA programs in the area that offers at least 75 hours of accredited CNA classes, as well as at least 100 hours of clinical work. Longer CNA programs are acceptable, but those with a shorter duration are not. All aspiring CNAs will have to pass the state’s licensing exam after graduating from the training course. The exam is given in two parts: part one is a written exam, while part two is a clinical exam. Students passing the exam gain their license and become listed on the state’s CNA Registry. Those who do not pass are allowed to retake the exam. A maximum of three attempts to pass the exam are offered. Anyone unable to pass after three attempts must retake their CNA classes and training.
Additionally, anyone with prior felonies will find that they are barred from becoming a CNA in San Francisco, as will those with violent crimes on their record. Background checks are performed prior to licensing any individual. Once licensed, you will have to renew your license every two years, but you will also have to meet the renewal requirements. License renewal requirements for CNAs in San Francisco include at least eight hours of paid work in a qualified medical setting during the previous 24 months.
Other state-specific requirements include a negative TB test (within the past 6 months), two passport sized photos, two fingerprint cards and proof of immunization, as well as proof of GED or high school diploma.
Key CNA Training Programs in San Fransisco
Finding the right training center will be an essential step in entering this field, but you’ll find that aspiring CNAs in San Francisco have several excellent options when it comes to CNA programs.
City College of San Francisco offers a short-term intensive training program, which lasts for one semester and is held on the Southeast Campus. The training offers certification in convalescent care, home health and acute care.
The Red Cross Bay Area Chapter is another excellent option for training. CNA classes are held at the Red Cross San Raphael training site and has a passage rate of 96%.
Key San Francisco Employers for CNAs
For CNAs seeking employment, a wealth of options can be found in the Bay Area. One of the largest private employers here is Alta Bates Summit Medical Center (Sutter Health), with almost 1100 beds. Another excellent employer within San Francisco is Kindred Hospital. While smaller than Alta Bates, Kindred has a lot to offer CNAs.
Salary Information for CNAs and RNs in San Francisco
Pay within the nursing industry varies considerably. The median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in San Francisco, CA is $40,440, as of August 17, 2020, with a range usually between $33,581-$48,483 (Salary.com).
Key Skills Learned in Training Programs
Like the rest of the nation, California sets its own CNA training and education requirements in terms of topics, as long as core federal requirements are met. Here are the basics that all CNA classes in San Francisco must offer:
- Communications
- Stress management
- Interpersonal skills
- Recognizing changing patient condition
- Patient assistance (bathing, dressing, etc.)
- Caring for patients with mental health conditions including Alzheimer’s
However, rather than looking for specific skills taught in a class, the best option is to ensure that the CNA training provider is approved by the state of California. This proves that the school teaches all the classes and skills required to pass the licensing exam and become a successful certified nursing assistant in San Fransisco.
- CNA Training Centers
- Street Address
- Phone Number
| American Care Quest | 1426 Fillmore St | 415- 885-9100 |
| Arriba Juntos | 1850 Mission St | 415- 487-3240 |
| California Nurses And Vocational Institute | 78 Ocean Ave | 415- 406-4725 |
| City College of S.F.-Southeast | 1800 Oakdale Ave | 415- 550-4300 |
| Oxman College | 309 4Th Ave | 415- 751-6461 |
| Oxman College | 309 4Th Avenue | 415- 751-6461 |