The Pavilion, the skilled nursing facility at Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC), is offering paid certified nursing assistant (CNA) courses.
The classes start upon acceptance into the program and offer rolling admissions throughout the year.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education-approved course provides paid training for students. Evening and weekend classes may also be available.
CNAs work alongside licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) in nursing homes and hospitals, providing basic care for patients such as bathing, dressing and meal delivery. There are significant employment opportunities for CNAs in the Bradford and Olean areas, hospital representatives said.
Eligible students must be 18 years of age or older. Coursework includes a combination of classroom instruction, skills lab and clinical experience.
“Smaller class sizes will provide an opportunity to individualize the training by giving additional attention to students,” according to Jason Shaffer, Pavilion administrator.
Upon successful completion of the training, students will take the state competency exam to become certified. Those completing the course will have the opportunity for employment openings at the Pavilion, BRMC and Olean (N.Y.) General Hospital.
After passing the Pennsylvania exam, CNAs can apply for New York state licensure if desired, Shaffer noted.
“CNA positions are unique in healthcare. They allow healthcare professionals to follow their passion by taking care of patients. It can be a life-long career or a stepping stone to other healthcare positions. We are fortunate to be able to offer this opportunity and introduce a new group of students to healthcare careers,” Shaffer said.
Along with the paid training, candidates’ testing fees are covered by BRMC. Further, if hired in a full-time CNA position, candidates are eligible for a $2,500 sign-on bonus as well as market competitive wages and other benefits.
To register for the course, visit www.brmc-ogh.org/careers. For more info, call (814) 362-8293. Limited spots are available during each training session.
