Domonique Thompson
August 26, 2025
“My Patients Are Like Family! This is My Calling,” says Recent Graduate of Certified Nursing Assistant Program
“My Patients Are Like Family! This is My Calling,” says Recent Graduate of Certified Nursing Assistant Program
In January 2025, when Domonique Thompson arrived at Roosevelt Warm Springs, she was curious about pathways offered at the storied campus. Initially, she selected CVS/Retail, but after consulting with her GVRA counselor she changed her mind. “I knew I wanted to help people, so the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program seemed like a better option for me,” she explained.
Lane Dorman, lead instructor of the CNA program, said Domonique was a pleasure to have in class. “She was determined to become a CNA so she could assist people,” Dorman said. “I’m happy she completed the rigorous curriculum and in June obtained employment as a CNA with National Healthcare Corporation.”
National Healthcare Corporation is a nursing home that offers comprehensive senior care. Domonique currently works three 12-hour overnight shifts on Fridays through Sundays. She assists residents with daily activities and provides support to the nurses on staff.
Domonique’s commitment to the CNA Program pays off
Dorman mentioned that Domonique made a commitment to the material early on, even when the content was challenging for her. “The vocabulary in the CNA program is like learning a foreign language because many people are not familiar with medical terms. Therefore, it takes time for the students to learn the vocabulary. Domonique did just that,” she commented.
Now in its fourth semester, the Roosevelt Warm Springs CNA Program is an approved training site. All CNA programs in the state are required to include the same hours of training, from textbook learning to lab skills. Even though RWS serves a special population of students, the curriculum is the same CNA program offered at any college or technical school in the state.
Students must learn 22 skills, and to pass the state skills test, five of those are identified for the student to complete. The skills must be executed to perfection during a 30-minute proctored exam. No RWS instructors are present during the state exam.
As an instructor, Dorman explained that if a student asks for clarification, she knows the thought process is working. “Domonique has achieved mastery in all of the state-required skills,” she shared. “It’s a testament to her ability to follow complex instructions. In fact, she spent time with a tutor so she could pass the state nursing exam. Domonique is listed on the state registry of Certified Nursing Assistants,” Dorman noted.
Domonique’s determination produces additional industry certifications
While at RWS, Domonique expanded her social and professional skills. Her counselor stated she makes good eye contact and accurately answers interview questions. The counselor also mentioned Domonique has a compassionate nature, a quality employers seek when hiring a caregiver. She also earned certifications for HeartSaver First Aid CPR/ Automated External Defibrillator and Home Health Aide.
When asked about her current responsibilities, Domonique replied that the shifts go by quickly and she always feels fulfilled because she knows she spent time helping others. “I feel as though some residents are like family because they are in my care. This work is my calling,” she said.
“Domonique is tender-hearted and will provide great care for residents,” Dorman mused. “I’m so proud of Domonique, and I am certain great things are in store for her as she pursues her chosen profession.”