New afternoon/evening CNA class

Kankakee Community College will offer a new afternoon/evening Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class beginning Aug. 17. The 16‑week class is designed for individuals seeking entry‑level employment in the nursing field.

During the first five weeks of the program, students attend classroom instruction on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-9:30 p.m. at KCC. For the remaining 11 weeks, Monday classes continue from 4-9:30 p.m., and students complete required clinical hours on either Wednesday afternoons (3-10:30 p.m.) or Saturdays (7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.).

Students in the CNA course learn the role of the nursing assistant and learn to perform basic skills that meet Illinois Department of Public Health standards. The class emphasizes effective communication, patient rights, safety, and infection control. Throughout the class, students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior and respect for residents’ cultural values, beliefs, and choices.

For more information, complete a request form at healthcareers.kcc.edu, or visit KCC and meet an advisor. KCC is located at 100 College Drive in Kankakee.

Students who complete the CNA course receive a certification from KCC and are qualified to take the state of Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam.

Three KCC programs include the CNA course:

• The two-year registered nursing program has a competitive entry process, and accepts new students each fall and spring semester. It incorporates classroom lectures, clinical experiences and lab demonstrations. The program is designed to prepare students for work in hospital departments, as well as in long-term care, home care, business and industry, outpatient clinics, public agencies, and physicians’ offices.
• The Licensed Practical Nursing program prepares students to use effective verbal, nonverbal, and written communication with clients, families, and healthcare teams. Students learn to apply the nursing process to provide safe, evidence‑based care across the lifespan and to make informed clinical decisions. The program also emphasizes creating a person‑centered environment that respects cultural values and client choices, along with the effective use of resources to meet patient needs.
• The Healthcare Assistant program prepares students to perform essential CNA responsibilities in a clinical setting, including basic nursing skills that meet Illinois Department of Public Health standards while maintaining patient rights, safety, and infection control. Students develop effective communication skills, demonstrate professional and accountable behavior, and learn to provide culturally respectful care. The program also includes training in basic CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, and proper collection and handling of blood specimens. It includes taking the CNA course, medical terminology, and phlebotomy.