CNA Classes and CNA Training Programs in Fresno, California (CA)

One of the fastest growing industries in the state of California is the medical field. You’ll find a tremendous number of career paths here, but one of the most in-demand is that of a CNA. Becoming a CNA in Fresno, California, can give you access to a rewarding career with a good salary, as well as plenty of opportunity to advance to a higher position – you might become an RN, LPN or even an MSN eventually. Of course, you’ll need to know a few things before you opt to become a certified nursing assistant by registering for CNA classes in Fresno.

Finding Information about CNA Jobs in Fresno

Finding information about CNA jobs in Fresno can be done in a number of different ways. This is an important step and will help you understand more about job availability, your potential annual salary, different employers in the city and more. Where should you begin? Actually, you’ll find that the city’s Craigslist page is a good starting point.

Here, you’ll find a tremendous number of job ads, which can help you learn more about what medical facilities are hiring, what your job duties might be and what you can expect in terms of salary with each position. Of course, there are other options to get access to job information.

Medical staffing services in Fresno are also good sources of job information. These can be especially helpful for CNAs who have already received their formal CNA training and earned their license. Here are some of the better staffing agencies in town.

• Maxim Healthcare Services

CNA Classes and Licensing Requirements in Fresno

The state of California is famous for going above and beyond federal mandates in terms of licensing and training, and you’ll find that this is the case with CNAs in the state as well. California requires that all CNAs undergo one of the rigorous CNA programs in the state consisting of at least 75 hours of traditional CNA classes and 100 hours of clinical training in a real world setting.

After completing one of these comprehensive CNA programs, you will have to take the state’s licensing exam to become a certified nursing assistant in Fresno. It’s similar to those of other states, and is made up of both written multiple choice questions and an actual clinical exam for physical procedure testing. California allows up to three attempts to pass the licensing exam – beyond that you will have to retake your CNA classes and training before attempting the exam again.

License renewal in the state is mandated every two years, and in order to qualify for renewal, you will have to have had at least eight hours of paid work during the previous 24 months. A clean (negative) TB test is also required, as are fingerprint cards and proof that you have your immunizations.

Key CNA Training Programs in Fresno

Finding a quality CNA training center is a vital consideration for any aspiring certified nursing assistant. Thankfully, there are quite a few training programs in Fresno that can help ensure that you get your career off on the right foot. These include the following venues for CNA classes in Fresno:

• Fresno City College
• Fresno Red Cross

Key Employers for CNAs in Fresno

While training is one of the most important elements for success as a CNA, you also need to know more about the area’s top employers. Staffing agencies can help you find a position, but you can also apply directly with area medical centers and hospitals. The following are top employers for CNAs in Fresno:

• The Community Health Care Network (includes Community Regional Medical Center, Clovis Community Medical Center and Fresno Heart and Surgical Hospital)
• Saint Agnes Medical Center
• Children’s Hospital of Central California

Salary Information for Certified Nursing Assistants in Fresno

In terms of salary, CNAs in Fresno earn slightly above the national average, with the median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Fresno, CA is $32,340, as of August 17, 2020, with a range usually between $26,857–$38,778 (Salary.com) Of course, as with every other state in the nation, you’ll find that your earning potential depends very much on where you work and what your specialization is.

Key Skills Learned in Fresno CNA Training Programs

During your training period, you will learn invaluable, vital skills that will help you provide essential patient care, as well as keeping yourself safe while on the job. Important skills learned during your CNA classes will include:

• Assisting those with mobility problems – This can include comatose patients, patients with physical disabilities and those recovering from surgery.
• Physical cleaning and grooming – From bathing to shaving and dressing, you will be helping patients care for and clean themselves when they are unable.
• Monitoring and recording vital signs – One important role of a CNA is to monitor and record vital signs for patients and ensure that all documents are updated correctly and in compliance with all applicable laws.