Unlicensed CNA

[Angelachn]

I recently became the DON for a private home care agency. They were assigning unlicensed CNAS to cases which required a CNA. They promised to stop this practice, but continue to make excuses as to why they have no choice. What is your advice? As the DON, even though I have assessed these new cases and told them they have to have a CNA, am I still responsible that they are not hiring and scheduling licensed CNAS? Thanks!

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

CNAs aren't licensed they are certified. In my state a CNA is useless in homecare as the training is geared towards geriatrics/LTC. CNAs can take a bridge to CHHA as CHHA is the only certification accepted in home health

[caliotter3]

I would think that to some extent you would be held responsible. If you can not do anything to rectify the situation, I would reconsider if you want to stay there. If your boss ties your hands on this matter, then what else are you going to have to bite the bullet on? Typically, where I come from, LTC facilities may employ nursing assistants for only four months until they are required to possess a certification. Check with your state authorities to see what the rules are for your situation.

[KCMnurse, BSN, MSN, RN]

As someone else pointed out CNA's are certified, and yes I do think if something went down you would be left holding the can. They work under the license of the registered nurse so the RN has the prerogative to refuse to delegate tasks to an unlicensed (uncertified) person. If there is no grace period for CNA's in your state I would give your boss an ultimatum. If they know its wrong yet to continue to do it that leaves you on shaky ground.

[Not_A_Hat_Person, RN]

CNAs aren't licensed they are certified. In my state a CNA is useless in homecare as the training is geared towards geriatrics/LTC. CNAs can take a bridge to CHHA as CHHA is the only certification accepted in home health

In Vermont and New Hampshire, nurses aides are licensed. They're called LNAs, with their own scope of practice and disciplinary process.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

In Vermont and New Hampshire, nurses aides are licensed. They're called LNAs, with their own scope of practice and disciplinary process.

My fault. I knew about NH and usually qualify it but I was not aware VT uses LNA. Are they both under BoN? In my state CNAs are under the Dept of Health and Senior Services but CHHA are under the BoN

[Not_A_Hat_Person, RN]

My fault. I knew about NH and usually qualify it but I was not aware VT uses LNA. Are they both under BoN? In my state CNAs are under the Dept of Health and Senior Services but CHHA are under the BoN

Vermont LNAs are regulated by the Board of Nursing.