Desert Palms Nursing Institute
Start Your Healthcare Career Here.
CNA & HHA training in the Coachella Valley
Upcoming CNA Classes
Your future in healthcare starts here. Choose a schedule that works for you!
Weekends Only (Saturday & Sunday) Nov. 14, 2026– Feb. 6, 2027 (FULL)
Weekends Only (Saturday & Sunday) Jan. 2 , 2027– Mar. 27, 2027
Fast track Weekdays (Monday-Thursday) Jan. 4, 2027- Feb. 18th, 2027
View tentative schedules below. subject to change
What Is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?
Start Your Healthcare Career with Desert Palms Nursing Institute!
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an essential member of the healthcare team who provides hands-on care and support to patients under the supervision of licensed nurses.
CNAs help patients with everyday activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, walking, and personal hygiene. They also monitor vital signs, assist with patient mobility, and help maintain a safe, comfortable environment.
Where Can CNAs Work?
Certified Nursing Assistants can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
Hospitals
Skilled nursing facilities
Rehabilitation centers
Long-term care facilities
Home healthcare settings
Why Become a CNA?
Becoming a CNA is a great way to enter the healthcare field, gain valuable patient care experience, and explore future opportunities in nursing.
For students who dream of becoming an LVN or RN, CNA training can provide a foundation in basic nursing skills and patient care.
Begin Your Journey at Desert Palms Nursing Institute
Located in La Quinta, California, Desert Palms Nursing Institute offers hands-on CNA training led by experienced nursing professionals who are passionate about teaching and preparing the next generation of healthcare workers.
With weekday and weekend program options, we make it possible to pursue your healthcare goals while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.
Your future in healthcare can start right here in the Coachella Valley!
What Are the Requirements to Enroll?
Starting your healthcare career at Desert Palms Nursing Institute is easier than you think! No previous healthcare experience or high school diploma is required!
To enroll in our CNA program, students must:
Be at least 16 years old.
No high school diploma or GED required.
Complete the DPNI student application and enrollment agreement.
Provide a valid government-issued photo ID and required identification documents.
Complete a physical examination and TB screening.
Meet applicable immunization and clinical health requirements.
Obtain a current American Heart Association BLS Provider certification.
Complete Live Scan fingerprinting and meet background clearance requirements.
Reading and English Comprehension: Students must have sufficient English reading, writing, and comprehension skills to understand instructional materials, follow patient care instructions, complete clinical documentation, and participate safely in training.
Need a physical or TB test?
We've partnered with a local healthcare provider to offer on-campus physical examinations, TB testing, and annual flu shots for just $100 per student!
A portion of the proceeds supports Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine (CVVIM). Participating students can also establish patient profiles with the clinic for potential future healthcare services, subject to eligibility.
Ready to begin your healthcare career? Contact us today to get started!
Why Choose Desert Palms?
Real Nurses. Real Experience. Real Opportunities.
At Desert Palms Nursing Institute, we believe great healthcare careers start with great training. Our experienced nurse educators bring years of real-world clinical experience into the classroom, providing hands-on instruction, personalized support, and the confidence students need to succeed.
Proudly serving the Coachella Valley, we're more than just a nursing school. We're a place where future healthcare professionals build their skills, discover their potential, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare.
Ms. Karla
Velazco LVN, DSD
Theory & Clinical Instructor
Ms. Dulce Apalayan LVN, DSD
Theory & Clinical Instructor