CNA Classes in Benton, Illinois

Benton CNA Training - Illinois

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Benton, IL

If you’re considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Benton, Illinois, you’re in the right place! CNAs are essential members of healthcare teams, providing direct patient care and assisting with daily activities. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to make a change, becoming a CNA can open doors to various opportunities in the healthcare industry.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of becoming a CNA in Benton, IL, including information on local CNA training programs, employment opportunities, and state certification requirements.

About Benton, IL

Benton is a charming city located in Franklin County, Illinois, known for its small-town atmosphere and strong community spirit. Benton is home to a variety of local landmarks, including the Franklin County Historic Jail Museum and Rend Lake, a popular spot for outdoor recreation. The city is conveniently located near Interstate 57, making it easily accessible from larger cities like Marion and Mt. Vernon. Learn more about Benton by visiting the official Benton website.

CNA Training Programs in Benton, IL

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Benton, you’ll need to complete a state-approved CNA training program. Below are some local schools offering CNA programs near Benton, IL:

1. Rend Lake College (Ina, IL)
   Rend Lake College CNA Program
   Located just 10 miles from Benton, Rend Lake College offers a comprehensive CNA program designed to prepare students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The course includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience in local healthcare facilities. Students will learn essential skills such as patient care, infection control, and communication techniques.

2. John A. Logan College (Carterville, IL)
   John A. Logan College CNA Program
   Approximately 25 miles from Benton, John A. Logan College offers a Nursing Assistant Certificate program that equips students with the knowledge and skills required to work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health settings. The program includes both theoretical coursework and practical clinical training.

3. Southeastern Illinois College (Harrisburg, IL)
   Southeastern Illinois College CNA Program
   Located about 35 miles from Benton, Southeastern Illinois College offers a CNA program that prepares students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry exam. The program emphasizes patient care, safety, and effective communication in healthcare settings. Clinical rotations are held at local healthcare facilities to give students real-world experience.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Benton, IL

Once you’ve completed your CNA training and obtained certification, you’ll be ready to explore employment opportunities in Benton and the surrounding area. Below are some healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs are often in demand:

1. Franklin Hospital
   Franklin Hospital Careers
   Located in Benton, Franklin Hospital is a critical access hospital that provides a range of healthcare services, including emergency care, rehabilitation, and outpatient services. As a CNA at Franklin Hospital, you may assist with patient care in various departments, including medical-surgical units and rehabilitation.

2. Helia Healthcare of Benton
   Helia Healthcare of Benton Careers
   Helia Healthcare of Benton is a skilled nursing facility that offers long-term care, rehabilitation, and memory care services. CNAs at Helia Healthcare play a crucial role in assisting residents with daily activities, monitoring their health, and providing compassionate care.

3. Heritage Woods of Benton
   Heritage Woods of Benton Careers
   Heritage Woods of Benton is an assisted living community that provides affordable housing and supportive services to seniors. CNAs at Heritage Woods assist residents with personal care, medication reminders, and other daily tasks to ensure their well-being and comfort.

CNA Certification Requirements in Illinois

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Program
   You must complete a CNA training program approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). These programs typically consist of at least 120 hours of training, including classroom instruction and clinical experience.

2. Pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam
   After completing your training, you must pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written and a skills-based component. The exam is administered by the Southern Illinois University Nurse Aide Testing Program.

3. Register with the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry
   Once you pass the exam, your name will be added to the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry, and you will be eligible to work as a CNA in the state. You can verify your CNA status and find more information about the registry on the Illinois Department of Public Health website.

4. Background Check
   Illinois requires all CNA candidates to undergo a criminal background check with fingerprinting. Certain convictions may disqualify you from becoming certified.

5. CPR Certification
   Many employers require CNAs to have current CPR certification. Be sure to check with your prospective employer about their specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Now that you know the steps to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Benton, IL, it’s time to take the next step! Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their CNA programs and enrollment requirements. Becoming a CNA is a fulfilling career choice that offers opportunities for growth in the healthcare field. Start your journey today by reaching out to a school and beginning your training.

For more information about job outlook and career opportunities for CNAs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics CNA job outlook page.

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in Illinois may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Benton?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Benton usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Benton will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Benton?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Illinois, you can find CNA training starting in July 2025, August 2025, September 2025, or October 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Illinois, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Benton is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Illinois CNA Salary info.