Palmetto Medical Institute Nursing Assistant Program

The program caters to different schedules:

• Morning classes run Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
• Evening classes are held Monday to Friday, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Weekend classes meet Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM for 10 weeks.

Start dates are offered every other month for weekday classes and quarterly for weekend classes, so there’s frequent opportunity to begin.

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The program is budget-friendly, with a total estimated cost of $1,065:

• Tuition: $900
• Registration Fee: $100
• Books & Supplies: $65

Additional costs are not included in the tuition and may include uniforms ($35), background checks (approx. $100), transcript fees, and state exam fees. Students should also be aware of the CNA exam fee charged separately by the Florida Board of Nursing.

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Training is structured through five distinct modules:

• CNA101: Nursing Assistant I – 40 hours of foundational theory
• CNA102: Nursing Assistant II – 31 hours including 28 hours of lab work
• HIV101: Covers OSHA standards and infection control – 6 hours
• CPR101: CPR and First Aid – 8 hours, including lab
• CNA103: Clinical Practicum – 40 hours of on-site experience

Altogether, the 125 hours ensure students are well-versed in both practical and theoretical aspects of CNA work.

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The 40-hour clinical practicum is a key part of the training and takes place in a nursing home or similar long-term care facility. Students apply the skills they’ve practiced in labs while supervised by a Registered Nurse. This real-world exposure is critical for building confidence and competence before certification.

Students should be aware that additional documentation, such as immunizations or medical clearance, may be required before starting the clinical. These are the student’s responsibility and not included in the tuition.

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To enroll, students must meet several conditions. Here are the key admissions requirements:

• Valid photo ID
• High school diploma, GED, or higher education proof — or pass the Wonderlic Ability to Benefit (ATB) test (minimum scores: 200 Verbal, 210 Quantitative; $35 per attempt, max 3 attempts)
• Pass a Level 2 background check
• Attend a one-on-one session with admissions
• If documents are from another country, they must be translated and evaluated by approved agencies
• Applicants aged 16–17 need parental consent
• Additional medical documents may be needed for clinical placement

It’s worth noting that certain criminal convictions may disqualify candidates from becoming licensed CNAs in Florida.

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Palmetto Medical Institute is located in Palmetto Bay, FL, in a 1,125 square foot facility with 2 classrooms, a lab, and student spaces. It’s situated on the second floor of the building and is accessible via elevator or stairs. The facility is adequate for small class sizes and close interaction with instructors.

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After completing the program, students are eligible to take the Florida CNA certification exam. Passing this test is required to become licensed and employed as a CNA in the state. The school ensures students are prepared for both the written and clinical portions of the exam.

While Palmetto Medical Institute prepares students for this process, the certification exam fee must be handled directly with the Florida Board of Nursing. Students should also take note of the criminal background restrictions related to certification eligibility under Florida law.

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While tuition covers most instructional costs, students should plan for additional out-of-pocket expenses:

• Uniform: $35
• Background Check: ~$100
• Transcript (1 free, then $25 each)
• State Exam Fee (varies, not included)
• Late Payment Fee: $25
• Diploma Replacement: $50

These costs can add up, so it’s important to budget beyond just the base tuition.

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