The next Patient Care Academy at Kalamazoo Valley Community College begins in January

Enrollment is open now for Kalamazoo Valley's Patient Care Academy. Students who successfully complete the seven-week training are eligible to take the State of Michigan examination to become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA).

CNAs are equipped for employment in long-term care, assisted living, dementia care, hospice, home health, and acute care. The program offers training in the most current areas of patient care, as set by the State of Michigan curricula, which includes working on a healthcare team, human interaction, resident rights, infection, safety and emergency, rehabilitative care, basic personal care, nutrition/hydration, use of restraints, vitals, CPR/AED, first aid, long-term care and dealing with death and dying. Caring for those with cognitive impairments as well as developmental disabilities, dementia and depression are also addressed.

The Patient Care Academy is a hands-on training program designed to ensure graduates have demonstrated knowledge and skills essential to perform effectively and safely as a CNA. The training includes classroom instruction, extensive, hands-on practice in a lab, and clinical experiences.

Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or G.E.D., have an energetic and positive attitude, and meet immunization and criminal background requirements.

This fast-paced program, held on nights and weekends, provides classroom instruction, hands on practice in a lab, real world clinical experience and acute care observation experience at a local hospital. Class is held Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 4 - 8 p.m. Clinical/observation hours vary. Tuition is $1,200 and the program is eligible for The Kalamazoo Promise, VA Educational Benefits and funding through Michigan Works.

For more information or to apply to the Patient Care Academy, visit the website at www.kvcc.edu/patientcare or contact the Career Program Coordinator Katelyn Vinson at 269.353.1282 or .