All theory/lab classes are at our Sterling location (6 E. 23rd St, Sterling, IL 61081).
All clinicals are at one of our nearby partner facilities. Location varies by course and will be announced after course starts.
Overview
Why CNA?
If you have a passion for caregiving and aspire to make a difference in the lives of others, Castor Health Institute’s CNA Course is the perfect stepping stone toward a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. Our comprehensive program is designed to provide aspiring CNAs with the knowledge, practical skills, and compassionate approach needed to excel in this vital role.
Castor Health Institute understands the unique demands of being a Certified Nursing Assistant. Our CNA Course is structured to meet the needs of individuals who want to enter the healthcare field or advance their careers within it. Whether you are a beginner or a healthcare professional seeking to expand your skill set, our course will equip you with the expertise to provide quality care to patients in various healthcare settings.
Here’s what you can expect from Castor Health Institute’s CNA Course:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Our course curriculum covers a wide range of topics essential for CNA practice. You will learn about basic nursing skills, vital signs monitoring, infection control, patient safety, personal care assistance, patient mobility and transfers, documentation, and communication skills. Additionally, we focus on developing your understanding of ethical and legal responsibilities as a CNA.
- Experienced Instructors: Our instructors are highly qualified and experienced healthcare professionals who have a vast knowledge of the CNA field. They bring real-world expertise to the classroom, ensuring that you receive the most up-to-date instruction and guidance. Our instructors are dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment to help you succeed.
- Hands-on Training: We believe in the importance of hands-on experience for CNAs. Through clinical rotations and practical training, you will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and practice essential skills in a supervised setting. This practical training will help you develop confidence and proficiency in providing care to patients, including assistance with activities of daily living and other crucial tasks.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of the CNA Course, you will be eligible to take the state certification examination, after which you will receive a certification from Castor Health Institute, which will validate your skills and enhance your employability in the healthcare industry. Castor Health Institute will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the exam and become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Our certification demonstrates your competency and validates your qualifications for employment as a CNA.
At Castor Health Institute, we are committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for your CNA education. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide compassionate care to patients and make a positive impact in their lives.
Upcoming Course Dates
January 18 to March 10
Class Times: Mondays & Thursdays from 4 pm to 9:30 pm, most Saturdays from 6 am to 3 pm.
Instructor: Denise Pederson
See full schedule breakdown here.
March 8 to May 3
Class Times: Thursdays & Fridays from 9 am to 1:15 pm, most Saturdays from 6 am to 3 pm.
Instructor: Denise Pederson
See full schedule breakdown here.
March 8 to May 3
Class Times: Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 4 pm to 8:15 pm, most Saturdays from 6 am to 3 pm.
Instructor: Jaime Hassler
See full schedule breakdown here.
This class also has the option to dual enroll alongside the April 22 to May 9 phlebotomy course, leading to a certification as both a Certified Nursing Assistant and a Phlebotomist. For more information, see the dual enrollment page.
Tuition, Fees, & Aid
Tuition & Fees
Tuition: $1,400
Nonrefundable Deposit: $150 (also covers textbook & supplies)
Deposit collected during in-person enrollment appointment.
Financial Aid
We want to make our courses as accessible to the community as possible. Payment plans and financial assistance are available. When you come in for your enrollment appointment, we will discuss these. To learn more right now, contact us.
Enrollment
How Do I Enroll?
Enrolling online is the easiest option and what we recommend.
If you enroll online, you will need to schedule a short in-person appointment where we will finalize your enrollment, discuss any questions you may have, and talk about payment.
Enrolling online does not require you to submit a payment online. Payments will be collected during our in-person appointment.
If you have any difficulties enrolling online, click here to contact us and we’ll reach out to you to get you enrolled!
Instructors
Instructor bios coming soon!
Curriculum
CNA Curriculum
Chapter 1: The Role of the Nursing Assistant
Chapter 2: Working in a long term care Facility
Chapter 3: Communication/Observations, and the Medical Record
Chapter 4: Medical Terminology and Abbreviations
Chapter 8: Infection Control
Chapter 9: Blood-Borne Pathogens
Chapter 11: Vital signs
Chapter 14: Gastrointestinal and Urinary Systems
Chapter 5: Safety and Emergency Procedures
Chapter 6: Restraints
Chapter 15: The Client’s Environment
Chapter 10: Assisting with Personal Care
Chapter 7: Body Mechanics, Positioning, and Ambulating Clients
Chapter 20: Common Health Problems – Part 1
Chapter 12: Nutrition
Chapter 13: Fluids, and Intake and Output
Chapter 20: Common Health Problems – Part 2
Chapter 16: Rehabilitation and Restorative Concepts
Chapter 17: Dementia Care
Chapter 19: Special Care and Procedures
Chapter 18: Death, Dying, and Grieving
Labs
Laboratory
Skills 1 & 17 (hand washing, PPE)
Skills 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 (oral care, shaving, nail care, peri-care, partial bath, shower, dressing)
Skills 8, 10, 11, 12, 15 (make occupied bed, transfer to w/c w/gait belt, transfer w/mech. lift, ambulation, side-lying position)
Skills 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 (oral care, shaving, nail care, peri-care, partial bath, shower, dressing)
Skills 8, 10, 11, 12, 15 (make occupied bed, transfer to w/c w/gait belt, transfer w/mech. lift, ambulation, side-lying position)
Skills 13 and 14 (Feeding, I&O)
Skill 16,20,21 (PROM, Ht, Wt)
Skills 18, 19 (TPR, BP)