CNA Provided Resident Care with Expired Certification
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) was found to be working with an expired certification. Record review and interviews with the Director of Staffing Development (DSD) confirmed that the CNA's certification had expired and had not been renewed, yet the CNA continued to provide direct resident care. The DSD acknowledged responsibility for monitoring certification status and stated that although the CNA was informed of the upcoming expiration, there was no follow-up to ensure renewal. The CNA herself confirmed she was aware of the expiration, had submitted a renewal application, but had not yet received the renewed certification, and continued to work scheduled shifts during this period. Further review of facility policies and job descriptions indicated that CNAs are required to maintain current certification in accordance with state laws and facility procedures. The Director of Nursing (DON) also confirmed that only staff with current, non-expired certifications or licenses are permitted to provide resident care. Despite these policies, the lapse in monitoring and enforcement allowed the CNA to work with an expired certification, contrary to facility and regulatory requirements.