Nurse Aides – also known as Nursing Assistants or Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are in high demand, not only in Kenya but worldwide. As many Kenyans seek marketable job courses in healthcare, the main question becomes, which are the accredited institutions for a nurse aide course in Kenya?
Before we list the best nurse aide training schools in Kenya, here’s more information on Nursing Assistants in Kenya;
How long does a nurse aide course in Kenya take?
The duration of training for nurse aides (CNAs) in Kenya is between 3 months to 1 year, depending on the number of modules and the internship offered. The curriculum design of an institution determines how long a Nursing Assistant course takes.
How much does a Nurse Aide Course cost in Kenya?
A Nurse Aide course in Kenya costs between 30,000 to 80,000, depending on individual training institutions. Private training institutions charge more, compared to public institutions.
What are the Nurse Aid Course qualifications in Kenya?
A mean grade of E in KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) is the minimum requirement for training as a nurse aide / Nursing Assistant in Kenya.
How much is a nurse aide paid in Kenya?
A nurse aide in Kenya is paid between 30,000 to 100,000 monthly depending on whether one is self-employed or working for an institution.
Apart from hospitals, where else do nurse aides work?
Nurse aides, also known as nursing assistants or nursing aides, work in various healthcare settings, providing essential support to patients and assisting healthcare professionals. Some common work environments for nurse aides include:
a) Hospitals: Nurse aides are often employed in hospitals, where they work in different departments such as medical-surgical units, intensive care, maternity, and more. They assist registered nurses and physicians in delivering direct patient care.
b) Nursing Homes/Long-Term Care Facilities: Many who take a nurse aide course in Kenya work in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, providing care to elderly residents or individuals with chronic illnesses. They help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
c) Assisted Living Facilities: Nurse aides may work in assisted living facilities, where they provide support to residents who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care provided in a nursing home.
d) Home Health Care: Some nurse aides work in home health care settings, providing care to patients in their homes. This can involve assisting with mobility, medication management, and other activities to help individuals maintain independence at home.
e) Rehabilitation Centers: Nurse aides may work in rehabilitation centers, assisting patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses. They play a crucial role in helping individuals regain their strength and independence.
f) Hospice Care: In hospice settings, nurse aides provide compassionate care to individuals with terminal illnesses. They focus on ensuring comfort and maintaining the highest possible quality of life for patients in their final stages.
g) Clinics and Outpatient Centers: Some nurse aides work in clinics and outpatient centers, supporting healthcare professionals in providing care to individuals seeking treatment for various health concerns.
h) Correctional Facilities: Nurse aides may be employed in prisons or correctional facilities, where they provide healthcare services to inmates under the supervision of medical staff.
i) Community Health Organizations: Nurse aides may work in community health organizations, participating in outreach programs and providing care to underserved populations.
j) Schools and Educational Institutions: Nurse aides might work in educational settings, such as schools, assisting school nurses in providing healthcare services to students.
The specific duties and responsibilities of nurse aides can vary based on the setting in which they work, but their primary focus is consistently on delivering hands-on patient care and support.
The best-accredited training institutions for a nurse aide course in Kenya
Here are the best nurse aide training centers in Kenya;
1. Avenue Healthcare
2. Nairobi Women’s Hospital
3. Metropolitan Hospital
4. GoCare Health Solutions
5. Rapha Hospitals
6. Helma Institute
7. Outspan Medical College, Nyeri
9. PCEA Kikuyu Nursing School
10. Bartmore Technical College
A Guide for Kenyan Nurse Aides Seeking Work Abroad
In recent years, the demand for skilled healthcare professionals has surged globally, and nurse aides from Kenya find themselves in a favorable position to explore exciting career opportunities abroad.
Countries Accepting Nurse Aides from Kenya
Countries such as America, Britain, Australia, and Canada are actively seeking qualified nurse aides to bolster their healthcare workforce. This guide outlines the countries that accept nurse aides from Kenya, explores the salary expectations in each destination, and provides insights into the visa requirements and application processes.
United States of America (USA)
The USA is known for its diverse and expansive healthcare system, making it an attractive destination for nurse aides. To work in the U.S., nurse aides need to apply for a visa, typically the H-1B or the EB-3 visa. The application process involves obtaining sponsorship from a U.S. employer, meeting educational and professional requirements, and navigating the U.S. immigration system. Salaries for nurse aides in the U.S. vary by state but generally range from $30,000 to $40,000 annually.
United Kingdom (UK)
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has a continuous demand for healthcare professionals, including nurse aides. Nurse aides applying to work in the UK must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and pass the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). The UK offers a Tier 2 (General) visa for skilled workers, and the salary for nurse aides in the UK is around £20,000 to £25,000 per year.
To maximize your chances of being hired, it is advisable to send cold emails to potential recruiters to introduce yourself and enquire whether they have job openings coming up, remember to format the cold emails to the country’s standard e.g UK standard. Check out our cold email templates.
Australia
Australia has a well-established healthcare system that welcomes skilled professionals, including nurse aides. To work in Australia, nurse aides must apply for a skilled migration visa or employer-sponsored visa. The salary for nurse aides in Australia ranges from AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Canada
Canada, with its high-quality healthcare system, is another promising destination for nurse aides. The Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs are common pathways for immigration. Nurse aides should also secure a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Salaries for nurse aides in Canada vary by province but generally range from CAD 40,000 to CAD 50,000 per year.
Application Process for Kenyan Nurse Assistants to work abroad
(i) Credential Evaluation
Obtain an evaluation of academic and professional credentials from relevant evaluation services recognized by the destination country.
(ii) Language Proficiency
Fulfill language proficiency requirements by taking standardized English language tests such as IELTS or OET.
(iii) Professional Registration
Register with the respective healthcare regulatory body in the destination country.
(iv) Visa Application
Submit a visa application, including required documents such as proof of credentials, language proficiency, and job offer.
(v) Immigration Process
Navigate the immigration process, which may involve interviews, background checks, and medical examinations.
Conclusion
A nurse aide course in Kenya is a gateway to working abroad for most Kenyans. Thorough research, adherence to regulatory requirements, and a commitment to professional excellence are essential. As these skilled professionals embark on a global adventure, they not only contribute to their professional career growth but also enrich the healthcare systems of the countries they serve.