CNA to Caregiver Bridge

About the Program

This CNA to Caregiver Bridge Program is designed for currently licensed Arizona CNAs who want to become dual-certified. The program allows CNAs to quickly transition by completing a short Bridge Program, which includes 2 days of class focused on medications, a skill check-off, and a series of exams to fulfill the Caregiver classroom hour requirements.

Program Details

The NCIA Board waives some classroom hours for licensed Arizona CNAs, as they must pass the Arizona State Written Exam to become an Assisted Living Caregiver. The program consists of 16 hours of class, offered on either a Daytime (Monday & Tuesday) or Weekend (Saturday & Sunday) schedule. The curriculum covers critical areas, including:

• Orientation and overview of Assisted Living
• Legal and Ethical Issues
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Service Plans
• Infection Control
• Nutrition and Food Preparation
• Fire, Safety, and Emergency Procedures
• Facility Environment and Maintenance
• Basic Caregiver Skills
• Mental Health and Social Services
• Care of the Cognitively Impaired Resident
• Skills for Basic Restorative Services
• Medication Management

Teaching Methods

The program emphasizes practical hands-on skill development in AMTI skill labs, utilizing various teaching strategies such as:

• Hands-on practice
• Discussion
• Videos
• Computer-aided technology

Instructors are experienced professionals working in Assisted Living or owning Assisted Living Homes/Centers in the metro Phoenix area, bringing realism and expertise to the classroom.

Certification

Graduates receive a Certification of Completion after passing a State Mandated Final Exam.

Approvals and Accreditations

Lifework offers proprietary CPR and First Aid certification courses and is a Licensed Training Provider with the American Red Cross (ARC). They also operate American Heart Association (AHA) and Health and Safety Institute (HSI) Training Centers, following ILCOR guidelines. Professional training programs, including EMT, CNA, Caregiver, and phlebotomy, are approved by relevant state agencies. The paramedic program is accredited by CAAHEP under CoAEMSP recommendation and institutionally accredited by ABHES in Peoria, Arizona.