Expired CNA Certifications Result in Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that three certified nurse aides (CNAs) maintained current nurse aide certifications while employed and actively providing care to residents. Record reviews showed that CNA A, CNA B, and CNA C all had expired certifications according to the Nurse Aide Registry, yet each continued to work scheduled shifts during the period their certifications were not valid. Timecard reports confirmed that these CNAs worked multiple shifts while their certifications were expired. Interviews with staff revealed that CNAs were responsible for notifying Human Resources (HR) and administration when their certifications expired, but CNA A did not inform staff of her expired license. The Director of Nursing (DON) and the Administrator both stated that HR was expected to complete background and registry checks prior to hire and annually thereafter, and that staff were responsible for notifying HR of expiring certifications. The facility was unable to provide a policy for nurse aide registry verification when requested.