I was a CNA for about six years up until 1999 in the states of Arizona and Montana. I did not work from 1999-2003 however. So, my license expired.

I am willing to take a refresher course if I must for the state of Oregon (where I now live). However, I have only encountered wait lists, 2+ month courses etc. I know a ton about nursing to the point I could go on to become a nurse (once I feel more into being an LPN or RN).

I used to be a medication aide in Arizona and a Patient Care Tech for a hospital. I am trying to find a way where I can take a week or two refresher course (because I "have" to take a class in Oregon) and then challenge the test. I have no doubt that I can pass any test that they give me.

I have kept up with my CPR and first aide as well. The few places that offer a class in my area have a minimum of 2 month waiting lists. Plus, the nursing homes that have the class through the community college are not very reputable, in my opinion. I have been to them and chose not to work at two of them due to cleanliness and the management being rude to the employees.

Isn't there some other way I can become a CNA as I used to be? I miss working in the hospitals most of all. However, it seems near impossible to be a CNA again. In Arizona I took a month course when I first trained to be a CNA and that was perfect. It cost me $400 but it was so well worth it. It was through a "private" organization that was set up legally and certified through the state government. Are there any such organizations in Oregon? I haven't been able to find anything.

Charlette