Nursing Assistant/Aide in Colorado
Colorado's Nursing Assistant pathway provides foundational preparation for careers in patient care and healthcare support roles. Colorado's healthcare sector, with major medical centers, hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, creates strong demand for qualified nursing assistants.
Students develop competency in patient care basics, communication, hygiene assistance, safety procedures, HIPAA compliance, and healthcare fundamentals. They gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Graduates work as nursing assistants or patient care technicians in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health settings. Many pursue CNA certification and progress toward Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse roles. Strong demand ensures good career prospects.
Nursing Assistant/Aide at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Colorado's nursing assistant standards align with CNA certification requirements and healthcare best practices. Standards cover patient care, communication, infection control, and safety.
Students complete hands-on assessments in patient care procedures, vital sign measurement, and communication skills. Assessment includes preparation for state CNA certification exams.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Healthcare Fundamentals |
| Patient Care and Communication |
| Clinical Practice |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- ✓CPR/AED for Healthcare Providers (BLS)
- ✓First Aid
- ✓Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- ✓Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
- ✓EKG Technician
- ✓Pharmacy Technician (PTCB)
- ✓NOCTI Emergency and Medical Services
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Nursing Assistant
Entry LevelSalary range: $40,830 - $48,100
Patient Care Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $40,830 - $48,100
Care Coordinator
ExperiencedSalary range: $52,980 - $99,430
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students gain clinical experience at hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Colorado.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in HOSA-Future Health Professionals, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Colorado Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve
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