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Acute Care
 
Nurse Assistant

Certified 
 Nurse Assistant

Phlebotomy

Emergency
 Medical Services

Paramedic

 

Licensed Vocational Nursing

 

Medical Assisting

 

 

Psychiatric Technician 

 

Registered  Nursing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Click on the above names to take you to the program information of your choice.

 

Please contact the Nursing/Allied Health Office at 805/546-3119 with any questions regarding any of the programs listed above.

You must apply to Cuesta College in order to register for any program.  Contact Admissions and Records at (805) 546-3140 or  Admissions and Records to view additional information.

 
Nursing and Allied Health Programs

Information on this website is subject to frequent change.

As our college and programs evolve, we are continually reevaluating how we can best serve our students while still fulfilling the needs of our local health care community. With such reevaluations, change is inevitable. We strive to notify our students and the community of any changes in our policies and practices as quickly as possible.

 

Acute Care Nurse AssistantOffered only at the Paso Robles Campus

Prepares the certified nurse assistant to function at a competent level in the acute care setting. Provides guidelines for acute clinical experiences. Skills are taught that are necessary in the acute care setting.

Prerequisite: Be a certified nursing assistant and have a current health care provider CPR card. Successfully pass background check and drug screen, completed at the student's expense.

CPR Resource List.

How to Apply

1. Students are encouraged to make an appointment with counseling for career guidance, 805/ 546-3138.
2. Complete registration as soon as possible.
Questions? Call the Cuesta College Nursing Division at 805/546-3119.

For more information contact Fay Johnson, the instructor.

Return to Program Index

Certified Nursing Assistant - Offered only at the Paso Robles Campus

Students complete more than 150 hours of lecture and clinical time in this nine week course. Lecture class covers techniques of communications, understanding behavior and identification of ethical issues in patient care. Basic patient care skills such as bathing, bed making and taking temperatures prepares students for clinical experiences in local extended care facilities. The successful completion of this program entitles the student to take the CNA certification examination. The application for certification requires a valid social security card / number. The Certified Nurse Assistant course is offered in the Fall and Spring semesters.

A completed Nursing Assistant Packet that includes health certification of student, required immunizations, and application certification is required to attend class. The nursing assistant packet requires a valid social security card / number.

Students must be able to lift 50 pounds repetitively unaided.

Course Details

NAST 148 is offered the first nine weeks of the semester. Successful completion of Nursing Assistant 48 qualifies the student to enroll in the test for certification. Upon successful completion of the test for certification, the graduate is prepared for employment in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities or private duty nursing at the Nursing Assistant level. In the skills lab, students apply principles of basic nursing care to patients and clients of all ages in skilled nursing acute care facilities.  This class gives the student an opportunity to see if they enjoy working in healthcare.  It can be the final step or the beginning of a career ladder in health care.

Requirements

1. Completed nursing assistant packet. Packets with required forms are available in the Nursing Office in Room 2315 and Counseling office. Nursing Assistant students may not participate in patient care without the following forms on file in the Nursing Office.

Department of Health Services requires fingerprinting and criminal background screening for students enrolled in a training program. The LiveScan fingerprinting form requires a valid social security card / number.

  • Department of Health Services application for certification. The application for certification must be completed and submitted prior to direct contact with patients.

  • Physical examination form.

  • TB skin test. This test can be done only at the Cuesta Student Health Center, San Luis Obispo  County Health Department or local acute care agencies.

Applicants are required to have passed a health examination prior to entering the Program. If, at any time, either before or after acceptance into the program a students' physical or emotional health is such that it is a potential threat to the well being of a patient or themselves; the student may be denied access to clinical agencies. Denied clinical access will affect the student's ability to successfully participate in the Program

2. Wristwatch with sweep second hand.
3. Textbooks and syllabus obtained at the College Bookstore. Bring to first class session: large 3-ring binder, pencil/pen, small pocket note pad, small pocket dictionary.
4. Transportation to and from clinical assignment.

 

Estimated Expenses (Nursing Assistant)

CNA

* Registration Fees ($20/unit)
  5.0 Units (9-week course)


$100.00

Parking Fee

20.00

Books/Supplies

60.00

Uniform (one): Dress $20-$40
Blouse $20 - $40, Pants $30 - $40


100.00

Shoes (one pair)

50.00

** Sweater/White

30.00

** Scissors

10.00

ID Badge 5.00
Watch with Sweep Second Hand 20.00
** Malpractice Insurance 40.00
State Board Exam Fees for Nursing Assistants 85.00
Fingerprinting "LiveScan" 45.00-50.00
* Subject to Increase
** Optional
 

 How to Apply

1. Students are encouraged to make an appointment with counseling for career guidance, 805/546-3138.
2. Complete registration as soon as possible.
3. A completed Nursing Assistant packet is required prior to attendance. The forms in the packet may take 8-10 weeks to process.
4. Questions? Call the Cuesta College Nursing Division at 805/546-3119.

For more information contact Fay Johnson, the instructor. 
Frequently asked questions

 

Return to Program Index

 

Emergency Medical Services

The Central Coast Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Emergency Medical Technician -Paramedic Program Committee Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Paramedic -

Rolling application for Fall 2009

Paramedic Class

 

The Paramedic Program is a collaborative project between Cuesta College and Allan Hancock College. The CCPP will prepare graduates to take the  National Registry  Paramedic licensure examinations (NREMTP) leading to licensure as a California Paramedic.

After prerequisites are completed, the Central Coast Paramedic Program is three semesters in length. Clinical rotations are scheduled during evenings and weekends all over San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. The internship phase begins during the final semester, and students are assigned to  contract EMS providers within and outside the county.

Who May Apply

All persons who have met general college admission requirements and the additional Paramedic Program admission criteria will be eligible for admission to the Paramedic Program. 

Applicants who submit a completed program application and meet all program admission requirements are placed into an applicant selection pool. Please see the current application for the details of the selection process.

 

PARAMEDIC PROGRAM PREREQUISITES - The following prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of "C", or documented equivalency of the courses.

  • Biology 12 ( Human Biology) *
  • English 56 ( College Reading and Writing)**
  • Math 23 ( Elementary Algebra)**
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Work Experience -Any of the following options:
  •  6 months full-time Emergency Medical Technician experience with an emergency medical service provider.  Or
  • 1000 hours of part-time and/or volunteer Emergency Medical Technician experience with an emergency medical service provider.  Or
  • Proof of completion of a Community College Emergency Medical Services Academy.

All work experience verification must be submitted on official letterhead in a sealed envelope. The work documentation must be filled out by current and /or previous employer(s). The information provided by the applicant will be verified by the Cuesta College Admissions and Records office.

* Or completion of higher courses, such as BIO 205 (Anatomy) and BIO 206 ( General Human Physiology).               

  ** Completion of the English and Mathematics Test with placement into a higher English or Math course will satisfy the above requirements. Contact Cuesta Assessment Services at 805/546-3951 to schedule a test date, if needed.

CENTRAL COAST PARAMEDIC PROGRAM CURRICULUM*

FIRST SEMESTER

Units

SECOND SEMESTER

Units

EMS 106 - Paramedic Theory

14

EMS 107 - Paramedic Clinical

6.5

Total Units

14

Total Units

6.5

THIRD SEMESTER

Units

   

EMS 108 - Paramedic Internship

9

   

Total Units

9

   

*Students receiving financial aid may need to register for additional units to remain eligible.  Contact Financial Aid at 805/ 546-3143.

 

Other Important Information to Know about the Paramedic Program

Clinical agencies will require that students have a background check and drug screening completed at the student's expense before beginning clinical rotations in the agency. Background checks and drug screening may deny the student access to clinical agencies and disqualify the student form participation in the Paramedic program. The Central Coast Paramedic Program will comply with state laws, regulations, and agency policies requiring background checks and drug screening on students. Information on how to obtain background checks and drug screening will be given to you prior to entering the program. Background check and drug screening clearance are final admission criteria.

Conviction of a felony or any offense substantially related to the qualification, functions and duties of a registered paramedic may constitute grounds for denial of licensure.

BACKGROUND CHECK AND DRUG SCREEN POLICY

To assure that the health and safety of the public is protected and that the student is able to perform paramedic duties, a certification of health by a physician or designee is the final selection criteria.

Students must be able to lift 50 pounds repetitively unaided.

Physical Exam:  Certification of health by your healthcare provider is a final admission criterion.  A complete physical examination and immunizations at the applicant's expense are required upon acceptance.

EMS 193 - Paramedic Preparatory Course

This is an optional 1 unit course offered in the summer session prior to the start of the Paramedic program. The course is designed to prepare students for paramedic study. Topics include review of anatomy and physiology review, patient assessment, electrocardiology, basic pharmacology and study habits as it applies to paramedic - level training.

 

APPROXIMATE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PARAMEDIC PROGRAM

Tuition - $ 20/unit ( 28.5 units total in the Paramedic Program) $ 570
Parking Permit ( 3 semesters) $ 60
Cuesta College ID Badge $ 5
Uniform, including shirt, trousers, belt and boots $150
Books for all 3 semesters $ 750
Skills kits supplies $ 200
Background check $ 50
Drug screening $ 50
Physical and Immunizations $ 200
Miscellaneous supplies (3 semesters) $100

* All dollar amounts are approximate. Actual costs maybe more or less than stated.

 

Emergency Medical Services

This program includes an EMT-1 Basic, EMT-Refresher, First Response Operational and Hazardous Material courses offered in spring and fall semesters. These classes have a high demand so early registration is encouraged. The faculty teaching this class have extensive experience and are prepared as Paramedics or as a Registered Nurse.

EMS 201 - EMT BASIC COURSE

Prerequisite - A current healthcare provider CPR card

Students are taught the fundamental principles and skills required to provide emergency medical care for patients at the scene of an accident or the onset of sudden illness and during transport to a medical facility. EMT-1 Basic course includes theory & laboratory practice of selected skills. A minimum of 10 hours of clinical observation with an advanced life support unit and/or in a hospital emergency room.  This is an 18 week course.  Classes are held on the main San Luis Obispo campus and at the North County campus during Fall and Spring semesters. A Background check and drug screening will be required prior to clinical access.

EMS 102 - EMT REFRESHER COURSE

Emergency Medical Technicians can review and update their knowledge and skills required to qualify for the State of California Emergency Technician Level I certification through EMT 102 Refresher course. This course is currently  an "online" course spring and fall semesters.

EMT REFRESHER HOME PAGE

EMS 103 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS  FIRST RESPONDER OPERATIONAL COURSE

Emergency Medical Technicians who complete the EMT 103 Hazardous Materials First Responder Operational  course will be certified to recognize, assess techniques, and take actions required to terminate hazardous materials and identify needs for patients at a hazardous materials incident. This is a three week course offered on Saturday during fall and spring semester

EMS 104 EMERGENCY VEHICLE OPERATION

Emergency Medical Technicians can learn skills for safe and efficient operation of emergency vehicles. Students must possess a valid CA driver’s license and be 18 years or older. This course is offered during the fall and spring.  

 

 

 How to Apply

1. Students are encouraged to make an appointment with counseling for career guidance at 805/ 546-3138.
2. Complete registration as soon as possible.
3. Questions? Call the Cuesta College Nursing Division at 805/546-3119.
 

Return to Program Index

Medical Assistant

MAST 110 - MEDICAL ASSISTING BASICS

Introduces the medical assisting role and responsibilities, professionalism, and medical terminology.  Concepts of anatomy, physiology, and computer basics are presented.  2.0 Units.

MAST 111 - MEDICAL ASSISTING FAST TRACK

Prepares the student for an entry-level position as a medical assistant.  The course includes verbal and written communication, basic and advanced clinical skills, medical office management techniques, and professional employment marketing skills.  Includes preceptorship experience.  12.0 Units. 

Medical Assistant Program Frequently Asked Questions. 

For more information contact Dawn Smith, the instructor.

Return to Program Index

Phlebotomy

MAST 109 – PHLEBOTOMY

Designed for students with prior medical training such as medical assistants, certified nursing assistants, respiratory therapists, LVN's, or RN's. Prepares the student in essential blood specimen collecting skills to fulfill state phlebotomy certificate requirements. Classes are offered during the Fall and Spring semesters on both the San Luis Campus and the North County Campus. 3.5 Units.
Phlebotomy Regulations

Phlebotomy Program Frequently Asked Questions

 

For more information contact Dawn Smith, the instructor.

Return to Program Index

Psychiatric Technician

We offer this program with Atascadero State Hospital. Students must complete the application process through Atascadero State Hospital in order to be admitted. The Psychiatric Technician program provides the student with the necessary training to provide nursing and therapeutic services for the mentally ill, emotionally disturbed or developmentally disabled, under the direction of a physician, psychiatrist, or registered nurse. Frequently asked questions. You must be 18 years of age and have completed high school or GED equivalent to be considered for the program. For more information call 805/468-3175.  For additional information about  Psychiatric Technicians, click on  the website California Association of Psychiatric Technicians

The next class begins June 2009. 


Term/Information Meeting Dates

Meeting Location
Tuesday, January 6th, 2009

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

 

Atascadero State Hospital, Main Lobby
10333 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA
Thursday, January 8th, 2009

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
 

Atascadero State Hospital, Main Lobby
10333 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA
 

Pre-registration for these meetings is NOT required

 

Please phone Atascadero State Hospital Psychiatric Technician Training Program at 805/468-3175 for more information.

Additional Information:

PSYCH TECH Information

Return to Program Index

 

Licensed Vocational Nursing

2009 LVN Applications closed on Friday, November 14th, 2008

The Cuesta College Vocational Nursing Program received full accreditation on April 12th, 2007 by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians

The Cuesta College Vocational Nursing program prepares students for entry-level vocational nursing positions in a variety of healthcare settings. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Vocational Nursing Licensure examination (NCLEX-VN).

The Vocational Nursing program takes place on the Cuesta College North County campus, located in Paso Robles. The program is one year in length, with classes beginning  at the end of May. Clinical rotations are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, with theory and skill classes taught during the day Monday through Thursday.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS IN THE LVN PROGRAM

All individuals interested in applying to the Vocational Nursing program are strongly urged to consult with a counselor before they register for course work in prerequisite classes. Please call Counseling at 805/546-3138

 

Who May Apply

All persons who have met general college admission requirements and the additional Vocational Nursing Program admission criteria will be eligible for admission to the LVN Program.  Prerequisite course work must be complete or in process to be complete at the time of application.

Students are admitted to the Vocational Nursing program from those who submit a complete application and meet all the VN admission criteria. In the event there are more eligible applicants than spaces available within the program, a computerized random selection of all the eligible applicants will determine admission. Students are admitted once a year in the summer

VN PROGRAM PREREQUISITES - The following prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better , or documented equivalency of the courses, or documented work in progress.

Students applying to the LVN program can not use assessment test results in place of the Math and English prerequisites courses. The required courses or higher courses must be taken in order to be eligible for admission to the program.

  • Biology 212 ( Human Biology) *
  • English 156 ( College Reading and Writing)
  • Math 003 ( Arithmetic)
  • High School Diploma or GED

* Or completion of higher course, such as BIO 5 (Anatomy) or BIO 6 ( Human Physiology).                 

CUESTA COLLEGE LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING CURRICULUM

FIRST SEMESTER

Units

SECOND SEMESTER

Units

LVN 101 - Fundamentals Theory

5

6.5

2.5

LVN 102 -  Maternal / Child & Intermediate Vocational Nursing Theory

6

6.5

5.5

LVN 101A - Fundamental Skills

LVN 102A -  Intermediate and Medication Skills

LVN 101B - Fundamental Clinical

LVN 102B - Maternal / Child and Intermediate Clinical

Total Units

14

Total Units

18

THIRD SEMESTER

     

LVN 103 - Advanced Vocational Nursing Theory

6

6

6

   
LVN 103A - Advanced Skills Lab for Vocational Nursing    
LVN 103B - Advanced Vocational Nursing Clinical    

Total Units

18    

 

APPROXIMATE COSTS* ASSOCIATED WITH THE LVN PROGRAM  INCLUDE:

Tuition: $20/unit (50 unit total in the vocational nursing program)

$ 1000

Cuesta College Parking Permit (3 semesters) $ 60
Cuesta College ID Badge $ 5
Two Uniforms $ 150
White Shoes (one pair) $ 50
Skills Kits for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Semesters $ 250
Books - 3 semesters (Most books are purchased in the first 2 semesters) $ 1000
Physical and Immunizations $ 200
Background check $ 50
Drug Screening $ 50
Miscellaneous Supplies ( 3 semesters) $ 200
* All dollar amounts are approximate. Actual costs maybe more or less than stated.  

 

Other Important Information to Know about the Vocational Nursing Program

Clinical agencies will require that students have a background check and drug screening completed at the student's expense before beginning clinical rotations in the agency. Background checks and drug screening may deny the student access to clinical agencies and disqualify the student form participation in the Vocational Nursing program. The Cuesta College Vocational Nursing Program will comply with state laws, regulations, and agency policies requiring background checks and drug screening on students. Information on how to obtain background checks and drug screening will be given to you prior to entering the program.

Conviction of a felony or any offense substantially related to the qualification, functions and duties of a vocational nurse may constitute grounds for denial of licensure.

BACKGROUND CHECK AND DRUG SCREEN POLICY

To assure that the health and safety of the public is protected and that the student is able to perform nursing duties, a certification of health by a physician or designee is the final selection criteria.

Students must be able to lift 50 pounds repetitively unaided.

Physical Exam:  Certification of health by your healthcare provider is a final admission criterion.  A complete physical examination and immunizations at the applicant's expense are required upon acceptance.

Applicants are required to have passed a health examination prior to entering the Program. If, at any time, either before or after acceptance into the program a students' physical or emotional health is such that it is a potential threat to the well being of a patient or themselves; the student may be denied access to clinical agencies. Denied clinical access will affect the student's ability to successfully participate in the Program.

 

Return to Program Index

 

Registered Nursing -

Now available - FALL 2010 RN program application  CLICK HERE

 Application closing date is July 30, 2009

TIPS FOR SUCCESS IN THE CUESTA RN PROGRAM

 

NURSING ADMISSION CRITERIA

 

Cuesta College has a successful and well-respected Associate Degree Program for Nursing. The curriculum is based on caring. A variety of clinical settings and diverse faculty give the student a well-rounded education. Graduates are encouraged to be independent, yet still be members of the health care team. The program has community internships and preceptorships. Students are encouraged to continue their education after graduation. Many Cuesta students obtain their BSN through California State University at Dominguez Hills.

The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Cuesta College prepares students for beginning practice level registered nursing in hospitals, health care facilities, and in homes. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the licensure examination for Registered Nursing.

Registered Nursing Courses
Two-Year Curriculum

Fall

Spring

First Semester

Units

Second Semester

Units

NRAD 201

2.0

NRAD 202A

3.0

NRAD 201A

2.0

NRAD 202B

8.0

NRAD 201B

5.0

NRAD 202D

2.0

NRAD 201D

2.0

NRAD 120

0.5

NRAD 120

0.5

Total Units

11.5

Total Units

13.5

Third Semester Units Fourth Semester Units

**NRAD 203

1.0

NRAD 204

1.0

NRAD 203A

2.0

NRAD 204A

2.0

NRAD 203B

5.0

NRAD 204B

6.0

NRAD 203D

2.0

NRAD 204D

2.0

NRAD 120

0.5

Total Units

9.5

Total Units

11.0

** Required for 30 unit option students

Students receiving financial aid may need to register for additional units to remain eligible.  Contact Financial Aid at 805/ 546-3143.
 


All of the below courses are required in order to be eligible to sit for RN licensure boards

  • Speech 1A (Public Address) or 
    Speech 10 (Small Group Discussion)
  • Psychology 1A (Intro. Psychology)
  • Sociology 1A (Intro. to Sociology)
  • Nursing Courses - 2 year Nursing Curriculum
  •  


    APPROXIMATE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROGRAM INCLUDE:

    * Tuition: $20/unit (46.5 units in the nursing program)

    $930

    Two Uniforms

    $150

    Stethoscope, Supplies, and Photo ID Name Tags

    $175

    Skills Kits for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Semesters

    $200

    Books 1st Year (most books are purchased in the first two semesters)
    2nd Year

    $1000
    $500

    Physical and Immunizations

    $200

    Background Check $50
    Drug Screening $50

    Miscellaneous College Fees

    $50

    White Shoes (Nursing)

    $50

    Miscellaneous Supplies (2 years)

    $200

    Graduation Costs (invitations, school pin, misc.)

    $125

    Cost to Sit for Boards in 2005

    $240

    * Subject to Increase

     

    Who May Apply

    All persons who have met general college admission requirements and the additional Nursing Program admission criteria will be eligible for admission to the ADN Program.  Prerequisite course work must be complete at the time of application.

    Students must be able to lift 50 pounds repetitively unaided.

     Applications with application information for the Nursing Program are not available at this time. It is the applicant's responsibility to submit all required materials and adhere to all deadlines outlined in the application packet. .

     Applicants who submit a completed nursing application, meet nursing prerequisites and provide required documents by the stated due dates will be notified of their eligibility. Completing all admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the two year program which begins in the fall semester of each year.

    Applicants are strongly advised to meet with a counselor early.

    Please phone Counseling at (805) 546-3138


    Other Important Information to Know about the Registered Nursing Program

    Conviction of a felony or any offense substantially related to the qualification, functions and duties of a registered nurse may constitute grounds for denial of licensure.

    Clinical agencies will require that students have a background check and drug screening completed at the student's expense before beginning clinical rotations in the agency. Background checks, including fingerprinting and drug screening may deny a nursing student access to clinical agencies and disqualify the student from participation in the Nursing Program.

    BACKGROUND CHECK AND DRUG SCREEN POLICY

    To assure that the health and safety of the public is protected and that the student is able to perform nursing duties, a certification of health by a physician or designee is the final selection criteria.

    Physical Exam:  Certification of health by your healthcare provider is a final admission criterion.  A complete physical examination and immunizations at the applicant's expense are required upon acceptance.

    Applicants are required to have passed a health examination prior to entering the Program. If, at any time, either before or after acceptance into the program a students' physical or emotional health is such that it is a potential threat to the well being of a patient or themselves; the student may be denied access to clinical agencies. Denied clinical access will affect the student's ability to successfully participate in the Program.

    All screening and checks must be completed before the student can begin the Cuesta College Registered Nursing Program courses.

    Accreditation

    The Cuesta College ADN Program has the California Board of Registered Nursing approval. Cuesta College is an accredited member of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. All courses and curricula have been approved by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges.

    Students with Equivalent Experience

    A list of challengeable courses is available per college policy.

    Students transferring from another RN program apply to the program Director. Transfer students are admitted on a "space available" basis and can not have been out of a nursing program for more than one year.

    30 Unit Option Students (only available for LVN'S)

    An  30 unit option LVN admitted on a "space available" basis does not graduate with the ADN designated degree, but may apply for licensure after completing not more than 30 units in nursing and science. For more information please contact the Cuesta College Nursing Department at 805-546-3119.