Wesley | CNA Academy

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential services to patients in a variety of medical settings. Apply to Wesley’s free, state certified CNA training program to receive a free CNA certification and enter a fulfilling, fast growing career in healthcare. Fill out an online application and attend our 6-week training academy in Des Moines.

FAQ

How much does the program cost?

We do not charge any tuition fees for our free CNA classes. Students only pay for state NAR and NAC applications ($85 each + Pearson Vue State exam fee $124), and for their own supplies (examples here): scrubs, watch, shoes, pens and notebooks.

Do I need to be a Wesley employee to attend classes?

No, this program is open to anyone over 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must pass a criminal background check.

Is your training program state certified?

Yes, we are accredited by the Washington State Department of Health.

How old do I have to be to take the class?

Applicants must be 18 years of age by the first day of class. This is the minimum age for employment as a CNA at Wesley.

Will I be guaranteed employment?

No, we do not guarantee employment upon completion of the course. However, we often hire students who complete the program and pass the state exam.

How long is the program?

The program is 6 weeks long, with classes Monday through Friday for lecture/skills 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., and Monday through Friday for clinical rotation 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

What is a CNA?

CNA stands for Certified Nurse Assistant. A CNA provides hands-on care to patients and residents in residential care settings, hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. The Nursing Home Reform Act, adopted by congress in 1987, defined the training and evaluation standards for nursing assistants.

What will the program cover?

Curriculum will cover necessary material to pass the written and the skills portions of the state CNA exam. Emphasis is placed on the basics of nursing and providing high-quality care to patients. Topics include but not limited to: nursing care basics, vital signs, resident rights, confidentiality, restorative care, HIV/AIDS, CPR, and 23 hands on skills.

Where can I take the state CNA exam?

Information will be provided during the class on the different testing sites in Washington. For more information on the state exam, please visit the Department of Health website.

Will I have to renew my CNA license?

Yes, your CNA certification must be renewed annually with the state on or before the applicant’s birthday.

CNA Academy Interest Form

Full Legal Name*
Last First Middle
Preferred First Name
Phone Number*
Email Address*
Enter Email Confirm Email
Do you have an active CPR certification?*
- Yes
- No
Do you have an active First Aid certification?*
- Yes
- No
Have you received the COVID-19 vaccine?*
- Yes
- No
Are you able to perform the essential functions of a Certified Nursing Assistant with or without a reasonable accommodation?*
- Yes
- No
View CNA job description here
C.N.A. Academy is a state-approved, accelerated, six-week program that meets Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Wesley Des Moines campus. Regular attendance is required to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the state exam. Will you be able to attend every session?*
- Yes
- No
Have you ever been employed by Wesley?*
- Yes
- No
If offered a job following successful program completion, are you authorized to work lawfully in the United States?*
- Yes
- No
Emergency Contact*
Name Phone Number Relationship
C.N.A. Academy Disclosure and Acknowledgement*
My submission of this form attests to my understanding of, and agreement to all statements and disclosures contained within.
Placement into C.N.A. Academy is based on various factors such as frequency of offering, space availability, ability to attend scheduled classes and events, ability to pay supply and exam fees, adherence to workplace policies, expectations and code of conduct while on Wesley property as a participant in this program, satisfactory references, acceptable DSHS criminal background check, timely completion of pre-placement requirements, and a desire to work at a Wesley location if conditionally offered a job upon successful program completion. Continuation of program participation is contingent upon regular attendance, satisfactory progress, and adherence to workplace policies, expectations and code of conduct.

All information I provide to Wesley now and in the future related to interest in and placement into the C.N.A. Academy is truthful, complete, and accurate. Wesley is authorized to contact the references I provide as part of the screening process for this program.

This is an interest form for the C.N.A. Academy and not an application for employment with Wesley.
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