May 03, 2026  
2026-2027 Course Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Course Catalog

APPLY TODAY

Advanced Nurse Aide, Certificate

Location(s): Ankeny, Southridge, Urban/Des Moines



Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Ankeny Campus Programs

The Advanced Nurse Aide Certificate provides an opportunity to gain the additional competencies and clinical experiences needed to seek employment in a hospital. The program is designed for CNA’s who have completed the Nurse Aide 75 hour state approved course. Upon successful completion, job opportunities include, but are not limited to, EKG tech, Emergency Tech, Scope Tech, Surgery Tech, and OB Tech. The agency or hospital will provide additional training in these specialized areas.

Program Details


Locations: Ankeny, Southridge, Urban/Des Moines


Pathway: Health Science & Fitness


More information on this Pathway.

Students Start: Fall, Spring and Summer semesters


See course schedule for start dates and times.

Program Entry Requirements:


Registration Information


Students must complete authorization for Criminal/Abuse Background check forms and have successful clearance by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for entry into the practicum portion of the course. Any student who does not have clearance granted by HHS at the time the practicum begins, will follow the college incomplete policy. A student who is denied clearance by HHS will not be eligible to continue the course and would thereby be administratively dropped following discussion with the student. Students will be expected to complete required forms as outlined on the DMACC website: Advanced Nurse Aide (dmacc.edu)

Semester 1


Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 3


These credits are applicable to the Nursing - Practical, Diploma  and Associate Degree Nursing Programs  .

Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


CostsSemester 1
History/Physical Exam240
Flu vaccine (October through April) 30
BCLS Certification 60
Textbook and Handbook100
Uniform, shoes and equipment115
Class fee 15

Total approximate cost certification: $1,205**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Provide personal daily cares and assist the nurse with skills for the patients/clients of varied acute care units such as Medical/Surgical, ER, OB, Pediatrics and Cardiac Care.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Provide safe care in acute care setting
  • Care for patients on special units
  • Provide/assist the nurse with special procedures
  • Good communication skills
  • Be able to perform required Advanced Nurse Aide skills (see attached performance standards)
  • Student must be able to lift 50 pounds
  • Technology needs: A computer or tablet with webcam/video, microphone, and reliable internet connection is required

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?


  • Plan ahead for alternate/backup means of transportation for class
  • Plan ahead for personal responsibilities (Example:child care)
  • Nurse Aides work a variety of shifts including weekends and holidays

Program Competencies


  1. Determine the role by comparing/contrasting nurse aide role in the hospital (acute) with the long-term care facility
  2. Explain the components of advanced nurse aide education
  3. Describe the legal responsibilities of the advanced nurse aide in acute care
  4. Demonstrate appropriate infection control requirements
  5. Report physical, psychological changes of the acute care patient
  6. Assess basic knowledge with anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology
  7. Provide proper assistance with designated special procedures
  8. Identify observations and need to document/report
  9. Discuss the Advanced Nurse Aide role/responsibility in the care of specialized equipment
  10. Describe the importance of the acute care plan, and advanced nurse aide contributions
  11. Describe the Advanced Nurse Aides’ role in emergency situations
  12. Perform skills competently on any acute care patient with supervision/guidance

Competencies revised date


AY2022

Nondiscrimination Statement


It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.  

If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026)

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Ankeny Campus Programs