Haywood Regional Medical Center celebrates seven graduates from spring Nurse Aide I training program

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is proud to announce the graduation of seven new Nurse Aide I (NA I) students from its spring training course. This milestone marks the successful completion of the accelerated program, which equips entry-level students with essential skills to provide high-quality patient care under the supervision of a nurse.

The Nurse Aide I Training Program at HRMC is held twice annually and prepares participants for a crucial role in healthcare by helping ensure patient comfort and safety. Nurse Aides monitor vital signs, assist with personal care, and support mobility while collaborating with registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The program emphasizes practical, hands-on experience within a supportive learning environment, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their roles.

The seven graduates of the spring 2025 class include: Leslie Enloe, Sleyton Guyer, Kyla Manapat, Karoline Paxton, Rachel Ramsey, Heather Shultz, and Danielle Williams. These individuals completed the 140-hour program, which consists of 42 hours of classroom instruction, 62 hours of laboratory simulations, and 36 hours of clinical experiences. The program adheres to the standards set by the North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON) and is conducted on-site at HRMC.

The Nurse Aide I Training Program is led by a team of dedicated instructors, including Debra Frizzell, BSN, RN, Clinical Educator, Kim Jenkins, RN, Clinical Supervisor, and Jennifer Zahn, RN. Their expert guidance ensures that participants develop the necessary skills and confidence for success in healthcare settings.

Graduates of HRMC’s Nurse Aide I program are eligible for employment as Nurse Aides at HRMC. In addition, the program offers tuition-free education in exchange for one year of service at the hospital. Participants gain practical experience while learning, giving them a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on patients' lives.

To be eligible for the program, candidates must first be employed as Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) at HRMC. Requirements for the program include:

• Being at least 18 years of age
• Holding a high school diploma or GED
• Passing a pre-employment background check and drug test

The next Nurse Aide I Training Program is scheduled to begin in October. Employees interested in enrolling should contact Sarah Henry at sarah.henry@lpnt.net or 828.452.8357 for more information.

Those not currently employed at HRMC can apply for open PCA positions by visiting MyHaywoodRegional.com/careers.