Introduction to Nursing Assistant

Next Class

Spring: 4/7/25-6/10/25

In-person class

Monday-Thursday

8:30-10:30

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER or in-person at the Hubbs Center.

Course Description

This class introduces students to the Nursing Assistant career. Nursing assistants give personal care to patients in hospitals and nursing homes. They work under the direction of nurses and doctors. 

PLEASE NOTE: This is only an introduction class, NOT a certification class. 

Course content includes:

• How to provide personal care such as bathing, grooming, assisting with elimination needs, dressing, and feeding
• How to develop better listening and communication skills
• 500 new vocabulary words dealing with the body, medicine and medical equipment
• The roles and responsibilities of a nursing assistant and the rights of patients
• How to take and record measurements such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, height, and weight
• Patient safety and how to protect yourself against injury
• Use of various medical equipment

Again, this is an introduction class, NOT a certification class. If you successfully complete the class you will get a recommendation from the teacher to move onto a certified nursing assistant training program.

Requirements to take the class:

• 11-week commitment to the class
• One of the following Reading test scores:
  • ELL C or higher (CASAS 225+ Form 185/186)
  • TABE E 460+
  • TABE M 442+

Requirements for successful completion of the class:

• 80% on weekly quizzes
• 80% on final exam
• 90% attendance

Requirements of the job:

• Able to pass a background check 
• Able to walk/stand for long periods of time
• Able to lift 30 lbs
• Able to provide direct care to patients

What Happens After the Class?

For those who successfully complete the class, they will get a recommendation from the teacher to move onto a certified nursing assistant training (NAT) program through our local Community Colleges, either Saint Paul College or Dakota County Technical College. These Certification programs will prepare students for the NNAAP exam Certification of Nursing Assistant in Minnesota. 

Other Nursing Assistant Training Programs include:
American Red Cross Twin Cities
International Institute of Minnesota

Additional Career Information

CLICK HERE to learn more about a career as a nursing assistant.