We are proud to offer a cost-effective training program for existing M&M staff and members of the community who have an interest in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (NAC). Whether you're thinking about a career as a NAC or using our program as a foundation for a different health profession, our program will prepare you to experience, first-hand, the rewards and challenges that one will face as a nursing assistant.

WHAT DOES A CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT DO?
A certified nursing assistant (NAC) is one of the most important positions within a nursing home. As a NAC, you will be assisting residents with bathing, grooming, dressing, eating, toileting, and exercising. You must possess good observation skills and good communication skills to be successful. As a NAC you will be working with residents that are in need and dependent upon your skills. For that reason, the position will likely be one of the most demanding (i.e., physically and emotionally) as well as most rewarding jobs in you'll experience in healthcare.

HOW OFTEN IS THE NAC CLASS OFFERED?
We offer our program four times a year (i.e., Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter).

HOW LONG IS THE NAC CLASS?
It is usually a 20-day program. There are 10 days of classroom training and 10 day of clinical training.

DO I HAVE TO BE A CERTAIN AGE TO APPLY FOR THE CLASS?
You must be at least 17 years old.

IF I FINISH THE CLASS, DO I AUTOMATICALLY BECOME A NURSING ASSISTANT?
No, completing the class is a big step in the process but you will also be required to complete a State Certification Exam. This Exam is also offered through Martha & Mary as we are the State-testing site for this area.

ARE THERE ANY COSTS FOR THE PROGRAM?
There is a nominal fee for books and materials; otherwise, the class is free.

AM I PAID WHILE I'M IN THE PROGRAM?
No, you are not generally compensated while you're in the program because you're a student and not an employee. There are some exceptions to this when we have current employees that decide they would like to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO APPLY FOR THE PROGRAM?
There is a competitive selection process for the program. The selection process consists of:

• Course Application and pre-interview exam (To be completed at the Health Center)
• Interview with one of the NAC Instructors

AM I REQUIRED TO WORK AT MARTHA & MARY WHEN I FINISH THE CLASS?
No, there are no guarantees or expectations for you to work for Martha & Mary upon completion of the program. All program participants are welcome to make a separate application for employment to Martha & Mary and we will interview and hire at times if we have openings.

If you would like more information about our Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program, feel free to speak with our Staff Development Coordinator at (360) 394-4030.

Print out a CNA Program application