Newsroom Category

News Release

JAN. 3, 2010


FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT DEBBIE KUCHMAS AT 203-332-5150

HCC To Offer CNA Program New Lab To Be Utilized
 
Starts Jan. 24

BRIDGEPORT – Housatonic Community College next month is offering a Certified Nurse Assistant program that can be completed in less than 14 weeks. As a CNA, students find positions in long-term care facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, or in self-employment. In the program, students will learn associated tasks, such as monitoring patients’ conditions, recording vital signs, and assisting with mobility, feeding, bathing, and dressing. “In less than 14 weeks, students will become trained CNA’s with the proper credentials and practical skills needed to deliver all aspects of personal care to patients,” says Debbie Kuchmas, the Director of Workforce and Non-Credit Programs at Housatonic. “Whether you intend to pursue a long-term goal as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or Certified Patient Care Technician, the CNA program acts as a springboard to propel you into the nursing vocation.” “Offering these programs reflects HCC’s commitment to preparing students for careers that are in demand,” Kuchmas added. “Nursing careers are projected to grow 17 percent over the next eight years,” The program, which consists of 36 hours of classroom instruction, 36 of laboratory work and 36 of hands-on training, runs through April 28. After completing the program, students will be eligible to take the State of Connecticut Certification examination. Kelly Carloni, the Nursing Coordinator and CNA program’s instructor, has 15 years experience as a Registered Nurse. Having worked 10 years as a CNA at several area extended care facilities and skilled nursing facilities before becoming a Registered Nurse, she knows from experience the expertise necessary for becoming a nursing assistant and the commitment it takes to join a health care team. A new CNA/PCT Lab has been built at HCC to accommodate the program, Kuchmas said. The lab enables students to practice the skills learned in class. For more information, or to apply to the program, contact Continuing Education at 203-332-5057. Housatonic Community College provides an affordable and accessible education through two-year degrees, transfer preparation, and certificate programs, as well as a wide variety of continuing education and personal/professional enrichment seminars and workshops.  In addition, HCC offers employee and occupational training for businesses, municipalities, government agencies, and professional associations to help develop the educated and skilled workforce required to meet regional business and industry needs.  HCC is nationally recognized as an “Achieving the Dream” institution.  To learn more, visit the college’s website at: www.hcc.commnet.edu <http://www.hcc.commnet.edu> . HCC is located at 900 Lafayette Blvd. in downtown Bridgeport, less than 150 yards off I-95 (Exit 27) and Rte. 8 (Exit 1), a block from the Arena at Harbor Yard. Free parking is available in the Housatonic garage.