CNA to RNA (Restorative Nursing Assistant)

NurseCubanitaRN2b, BSN, RN · Jul 17, 2008

The RNA program is the Restorative Nursing Assistant. They work both with the Nursing portion, but mostly with the therapy department. What they do is they work with the patients who are not progressing at a fast enouogh rate to be kept on therapy (OT, OT, ST) according to insurance companies. The goal is for the patient to stay at that level of care. The facilities don't want the patients to drop below the level that they're able to do on their own so they put them in this program. For example, if they can feed themselves but they need some sort of assistance, then they go with the RNA for that. If they can ambulate but at a slower pace and need some sort of supervision, then they go to the RNA for that. The RNA can also assist with patient exercise and they also do ROM with them. I believe it's a great program, the problem is that most of the time the nursing staff forgets that their role is RNA, not CNA and they get pulled to do CNA work if they're short staffed. IMO, RNA should be under Rehab Department and never get pulled to do a CNA job. The reason is that the RNA is dependent by these people on that particular program to keep them at that level that they are at. That is the highest level that they can accomplish, and to lose that would be devestating to the patient. I hope I answered your questions.

FutureNurse23 · Jul 18, 2008

You can work at a rehab and nursing center and they will have RNA's. I know the place I work at has a couple of them. Also you can apply as a CNA and when a position comes available at the job just apply to work as a RNA.

Banjoeer · Jul 18, 2008

anyone have any info on rna? i'm currently in a cna program and our instructor was talking a little about a rna course they offer, but would require a cna cert. first as i was told. any info for restorative nursing assistant? wages? any info. would be great :nuke: thanks!

great info in the above post!

in oregon, there is a cna ii certification as restorative aide. (there's also a cna ii specialty of acute care....)

the link takes you to the curriculum for the cnaii restorative aide...

good luck

2bELNurse1 · Jul 20, 2008

I also heard about RNA how long is the program if I want to become an RNA but with the CNA Certification

thanks

NurseCubanitaRN2b, BSN, RN · Jul 20, 2008

I don't know about other states, but in California it's usually a 12 hour (also renewal CEU's) course after CNA, it's very basic. BTW, you would get a couple of more dollars an hour for your RNA. If you're looking for a career in physical or occupational therapy, then I'd say stick with RNA. But, if you're more into the nursing aspect, it's good to have the RNA, but focus isn't on nursing interventions.

2bELNurse1 · Jul 20, 2008

in california where can you get that course to become an RNA? Currently I got accepted to LVN program so I'm from california too.

NurseCubanitaRN2b, BSN, RN · Jul 20, 2008

*Congratulations*

I received my RNA from (and I'm not using it) the local adult school. Unfortunately that's the only place where I know they offer it. You might want to ask your CNA instructor (if you're a CNA) where you might be able to find it. Also, if you're currently employed you might want to get in touch with your Director of Staff Development and ask them where you can get the certification. Some facilities will pay for your training. Good Luck! I'm sure if you look up CNA CEU's or something you might be able to find it.

cheizy · Jul 24, 2008

thanks everyone for your answers =]

I talked to my instructor for CNA at my adult school witch offers RNA. It basically is a 9 week course, but only meets once a week. RNA is still "nursing", but you don't have to deal with ADLS etc. other than restoritive care. The pay I have been told is better, and the work is much easier.

2bELNurse1 · Jul 24, 2008

^^that sweet, I was thinking about that being an RNA, any one from California SF, where they offer an RNA class? thanks or out of city in California.

Pottery Barn · Mar 29, 2011

Hi "2bELNurse1" I'm in the bay area also, have you found a place where you can take training for this? I befriended you:)

sil2012 · Sep 14, 2011

Hello, Does anyone know if there is a RNA class in Florida?..I find it real interesting:)..how much is the pay?