Scottsdale Community College to launch 7-week nursing assistant program

PHOENIX — A new seven-week nursing assistant certificate program will launch in Scottsdale next year, creating a direct pathway for students to a health care career.

Registration is now open for the 4.5-credit-hour Nursing Assistant Certificate of Completion program (NUR158) in Scottsdale Community College located at Chaparral Road and Loop 101 Pima Freeway, SCC said Thursday in a press release.

The focus will be centered around theory, skill practice in the nursing lab and clinical experiences in facilities.

Training will also focus on critical thinking, decision-making, communication and team collaboration while also highlighting patient care skills.

Skills developed in the program could prepare students for the Arizona State Board of Nursing exam required to become a certified nurse assistant (CNA) or a licensed nurse (LNA), the community college said.

“Certified nurse assistants help improve the lives of those they serve — that’s both the nursing staff and their patients,” Debbie Dollmeyer, SCC nursing department chair and program director, said in the release.

“If you are compassionate, caring and have a passion for helping people, you may be the perfect candidate for SCC’s new nurse assisting program.”

CNAs work under the supervision of licensed nurses to take vital signs, answer light calls and review food and fluid consumption.

Dollmeyer told KTAR News 92.3 FM there’s plenty of employment opportunities as there’s a large demand for nursing assistants nationwide and in Scottsdale.

Places of employment range from hospitals and patient homes to residential care facilities and nursing homes.

The institution will host a free online information session for aspiring students.

For more information on the program and how to register, visit the website.

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