2011-12

Nursing Assistant
Technical Diploma — Downtown Milwaukee, Oak Creek and West Allis Campuses

Program code: 30-543-1

This curriculum goes into effect as of summer 2011.

This page was last updated in May 2011.

Overview — Nursing Assistant is a three-credit technical diploma program designed to prepare you for employment as an entry-level bedside caregiver in health care facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes, and home-health facilities. Nursing assistants are instructed in English, but selected sections are specific for the bilingual learner - instruction is given in English and Spanish or with Spanish-language support from the bilingual education center. The nursing assistant course focuses on introducing you to the basic nursing skills and procedures needed to assist hospital clients, nursing home residents and home health clients with their daily living activities, specialized care, and communication needs. Course curriculum and instruction focuses on successful preparation for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) and the state nurse aide curriculum. Graduates of the program are eligible to take part in NNAAP activities upon completion of the course. The cost for this testing is not included in course fees and tuition.

Career Outlook — Job prospects are suited for nursing homes, hospitals, home-health agencies, and private-duty practice settings. Typical job titles of positions available to graduates of the program include nursing assistant and nurse aide, patient care assistant or PCA, and home-health aide. These positions work under the direction and supervision of licensed medical personnel, primarily registered nurses or licensed practical nurses.

Program Learning Outcomes — When seeking employment as a nurse aide, most employers will expect you to:

• Practice principles of infection control
• Provide safe, competent care to patients
• Be able to identify and perform job-related procedures, with attention to detail
• Demonstrate effective communication and observational skills
• Work efficiently under pressure
• Possess good listening skills with an ability to follow instructions
• Exercise tact and patience in interactions with others 

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program: 

• Demonstration of proficiency in the Spanish language (for Bilingual program only).
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
• Good health as evidenced by a medical examination
• Documentation that the Essential Job Functions have been reviewed. This is in keeping with the requirements of the federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Documentation of compliance with Wisconsin’s Caregiver Law

Success in the program is highly dependent on having a sincere concern for people; good physical and emotional health; excellent attendance record; an ability to communicate effectively with other health care personnel, patients, and their families; and a neat, well-groomed appearance. A high school diploma or GED is recommended.

Possible Careers:

Nurse Aide/ Nursing Assistant
Patient Care Assistant
Home Health Aide

Related Programs:

Medical Assistant
Phlebotomy
Renal Dialysis Technician

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2011-12.

COURSE                                                            Credits       Hours 
NRSNA-300     Nursing Assistant                                3          20r  15s 

TOTAL CREDITS: 3

Hours per Week: r = related, s = shop, c = clinical, o = other

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

For course descriptions, times, locations or to register for classes, visit  INFOnline.