CNA Classes and CNA Training Programs in Salem, Oregon (OR)

Between the cities of Eugene and Portland is the lovely small city of Salem, OR. With a modest population of 155k, it is scenic, safe, and a really great place to live and to work. This is especially true if you are interested in a career as a CNA (of any kind) because the state is currently experiencing an increase in demand for such trained professionals. That’s why it’s a great time to consider CNA classes in Salem.

Skills Learned in CNA Training in Salem

Because CNA training in Oregon is regulated and follows very rigorous guidelines (close to federal standards), you will be trained in the following:

• How to provide services to the supervising nurses and physicians at a medical facility,
• How to properly and safely toilet, change, and lift patients,
• CPR certification (this is mandatory for licensing);
• How to properly care for the patients, including everything from feeding and bathing, to moving them from bed to a chair, etc.,
• Using and implementing patient safety techniques, and
• The basics of human anatomy and physiology.

The state guidelines may also allow training to include the dispensing of medications and working directly under the supervision of a nurse or doctor. The work may also include basic housekeeping since many CNAs opt to take a substantially higher wage working as a live in caregiver for long-term clients. It all begins, however, with the right education.

Key Training Programs in Salem

You need to enroll in one of the approved Salem CNA training programs before you can be listed on the state’s registry as a CNA. It does not matter what type of work you intend to do (live in or hospital work), all CNAs must obtain the same training as any other. This means your first step is to choose one of the  pre-approved state programs that offer CNA classes in Salem.

The Oregon Department of Human Services sets out the guidelines and approves each program. The following sites are among the most convenient for those considering doing their studies in Salem or the surrounding area:

• Chemeketa Community College
• Western Oregon University

Salem CNA Classes and Licensing Requirements

How do the Salem CNA programs operate? Before you can begin any clinical work, or even be enrolled, you must get a criminal background check and a basic physical (including drug and TB testing). You are also required to have CPR certification before working with patients as well.

Though a detailed list of skills is itemized above, your formal training asks you to participate in a formal and structured program. It requires at least 150 hours of work that is divided between 75 hours of CNA classes and another 75 hours of clinical or “hands on” work.

Once your studies are done you can take the state exam, and with a passing grade, you can be listed on the official Oregon Nursing Assistant Registry.

Salary Information

What do CNAs in Salem, OR earn? The median annual Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Winston Salem, NC is $32,560, as of August 10, 2020, with a range usually between $27,058-$39,036 (Salary.com).

Top Employers to Know

While many new CNAs use an employment service or general classifieds (discussed in the next section below), you can also work with a larger facility to enhance your skill level and your experience. If you choose this path, you will want to get in touch with the largest employers in the region – the hospitals and medical centers. The most appropriate in the area include:

• Salem Hospital
• Silverton Hospital

Information about CNA Jobs in Salem

If you would prefer a more specific type of work, you might want to look at the listings for Indeed.com. Alternately, you could give your information to the various nursing staffing services as well.

Because this field is growing rapidly, you will have a lot of opportunities, and the key is to get a bit of experience and decide which specific area you prefer.