Program specifics about earning a Nursing Certificate at Northland.
The Nursing Assistant course is a prerequisite for students planning to enroll in the Practical Nursing program. The course presents factual information and hands-on skill practice through lecture, lab demonstration and practice, assigned audiovisuals, texts and handouts. The course also includes hands-on clinical experience.
The nursing assistant is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of licensed practical nurses and/or registered nurses to perform basic patient cares and assist with activities of daily living. Nursing Assistants provide hands-on care and perform routine tasks. Nurse aides employed in nursing care facilities often are the principal caregivers, having far more contact with residents than do other members of the staff. This course introduces concepts of basic human needs in simple terms. Selected common technical nursing skills are introduced. Principles of body mechanics are emphasized.
The nursing assistant course is intended to prepare students for practice at the Nursing Assistant level. Upon successful completion of the course, the student is eligible to take the written and skills exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Nursing Assistant Student Handbook – Fall 2024 (updated: 04/03/2024)
Program Accreditation
Northland Community & Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The Nursing Assistant program is approved by the Minnesota Department of Health.
Program Learner Outcomes
- The student will prevent spread of microorganism by using standard and transmission based precautions.
- The student will demonstrate knowledge of basic legal and ethical practices along with awareness of resident or client rights.
- The student will demonstrate basic skills of personal care.
- The student will demonstrate basic observational skills with ability to recognize and report abnormal signs and symptoms.
- The student will demonstrate proper body mechanics.
- The student will demonstrate awareness of psychosocial needs.
- The student will demonstrate knowledge and ability to implement emergency and safety procedures.
- The student will demonstrate use of interpersonal and communication skills with ability to function as a nursing team member.