Our next class will be offered sometime in the Fall.  The Nurse Aide Trainee position will be opened for applications once the date of the class has been determined.  

Program Information
Salem Hospital offers an “earn as you learn” Nursing Assistant Training program.  This course prepares you to take the Oregon State Board of Nursing certification exam and work as a Certified Nursing Assistant or CNA. 

The program is 8 to 9 weeks of intense training.  Students are in class 3 to 4 days per week, 7 ½ - 8 hours each day.  Training may take place during day shift and a large amount of studying is required outside of class time. 

There is no cost for the class and materials, but students are expected to purchase their own uniforms and equipment, such as a Stethoscope, and pay the fee to take the certification exam.  Students are also expected to meet dress code requirements and follow Salem Hospital policies and procedures.

Online applications are reviewed and selected candidates are invited to a series of interviews.  After the interview process is complete, we offer a pre-selected number of applicants a position in the class, pending the pre-employment activities that include references, a health assessment and background checks. 

If selected for the program, you are hired on as an unscheduled Salem Hospital employee and will be paid a training wage for the hours you are in class.

When you graduate from the program, you will be eligible to take the State certification exam.  Once you pass the exam, you will be eligible to apply for any open CNA positions at Salem Hospital. 

While placing all new CNA’s from the program into a position is the goal, it is not guaranteed.  If placed into a position we ask that you work for the hospital for a minimum of one year in exchange for the training we have provided.

If you have additional questions, please contact the Education Services office at 503-561-5639.  The office is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.