Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Certified nursing assistants (CNA) provide basic patient care under the supervision of nursing staff. Tasks performed include, but are not limited to, measuring patient vitals signs and feeding, bathing, dressing, and moving patients. With additional training, CNAs may also dispense medications.

Career Opportunities

Individuals may find jobs as a CNA, nurse aide, home health aide, or personal care aide.

Example Careers and Average Wages

Entry Average Experienced
Nursing Assistants

$25,900

$30,500

$32,800

Home Health Aides

$22,500

$27,400

$29,800

Source: 2020 Iowa Wage Report, Iowa Workforce Development

Hawkeye Community College cannot guarantee employment or promotion.

Train to Become a CNA

To become a CNA, you must successfully complete the HSC-168 Nurse Aide course. See the HSC-168 course description and course cost.

To view available HSC-168 sections:

  1. Search for Courses and Course Sections
  2. In the Subject dropdown select "HSC Health Science"
  3. In the Course Number textbox type "168"
  4. Click the "Search" button
  5. Click "View Available Sections for HSC-168"

Register as a guest student to enroll in HSC-168.

After successful completion of the HSC-168 Nurse Aide course, you must pass the written and skills portions of the Nurse Aide Competency Exam. Register for the Nurse Aide Competency Exams.

Additional Training Opportunities

Hawkeye offers additional training opportunities to advance your career.

Contact Information

Health Coordinator

Elizabeth Cummings
Adult Learning Center
319-296-4456
Email Elizabeth Cummings

Business & Community Education — Health

Cedar Falls Center
319-277-2490
319-266-6772 (fax)
Email Hawkeye Health Education

Health Continuing Education Coordinator

Brenda Helmuth
Cedar Falls Center 101
319-296-2329 ext.3017
Email Hawkeye Health Education

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