Acute Care Nursing Assistant
Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) Certificate
Take a deep dive into the ACNA certificate to see if it's a right fit for you!
Welcome to the Acute Care Nursing Assistant (ACNA) Certificate program. Get trained to be a nursing assistant in an acute care setting. Learn to work under the supervision of a nurse. Practice soft skills (VBUS 402) or language skills (ESL 520) for a healthcare environment.
Help patients with daily activities. They take vital signs, assist with medical equipment, and provide support. ACNAs observe patients and share important information with nursing staff.
This certificate program prepares students for entry-level employment as an ACNA and for the state certification exam. The program is approved by the California Department of Public Health. Students who complete the course earn a certificate of completion.
Tuition is free. Students may be responsible for costs such as uniforms, supplies, CPR certification, health requirements, and background checks.
- Attend Orientation (VHLTH 105: Overview of the Acute Care Nursing Assistant Program Certificate)
- Pass either VBUS 402: WorkForce Power Skills or ESL 520: English for Work 2 (Try the Healthcare Specialization!)
- Submit a completed admission package
- Take the Nursing Assistant state exam and pass.
- Possess a State Issued ID or Driver's License
- Possess a Social Security Card/ITIN Number
- Pass a TB Test (Tuberculosis) or Clear Chest X-Ray
- Pass a Physical Exam to confirm good health
- Pass a Background Check (Live Scan Fingerprints)
- Possess Immunity/Passed immunization forms (Varicella, Tdap, MMR, Hep B & Influenza). COVID vaccine and boosters may be required depending on the clinical facility.
- Attend a mandatory information orientation, VHLTH 101
- Possess a current BLS/CPR for Healthcare Professionals certification from the American Heart Association
- VHLTH 106: Acute Care Nursing Assistant Theory
- VHLTH 107: Acute Care Nursing Assistant Skills Lab
- VHLTH 108: Acute Care Nursing Assistant Clinical
Important Note: Students will be selected into the program. Completion of the requirements above does not guarantee admission into the program.