The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) clinical training in Carbondale, Illinois, took place on September 29 and 30. This training gave students a chance to work with real patients and learn what being a CNA is really like. It helped them practice what they learned in class and understand how to care for people in a real healthcare setting.

CNA instructor Melanie Nelson said, “Clinical rotations are where students truly connect their classroom learning with patient care. It’s vital for them to understand the responsibilities they will tackle as CNAs.” Her guidance helped students feel more confident as they began caring for residents.

During the training, students helped residents with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and moving safely. They also took vital signs like temperature and blood pressure and practiced infection control to keep everyone healthy. These activities showed students how important it is to be patient, gentle, and respectful with every resident.

Nelson shared that working directly with residents helps students grow as caregivers. “The interaction with residents not only enriches the students’ learning experience but also fosters empathy and compassion,” she said. Students quickly learned that being kind and taking time to listen can make a big difference in a resident’s day.

By the end of the two-day training, many students said they felt proud of how much they had learned. The experience gave them a better understanding of what it means to be a CNA and how meaningful the job can be. They also realized that good care is about more than just doing tasks, it’s about showing care and respect for every person.

The clinical experience allowed students to turn what they learned in the classroom into real-world skills. It gave them confidence and motivation to continue their journey in healthcare. Through hands-on learning and personal connection, the students gained not only knowledge but also the compassion and understanding needed to become great CNAs.