Uncertified Nurse Assistant Worked as CNA Without Proper Credentials
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that all staff had the appropriate competencies and skill sets to provide care and meet residents' needs. Specifically, a nurse assistant (NA) was hired and worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) without having completed the required certification exam. The administrator and director of nursing were aware that the NA had not yet taken the certification test but allowed her to work as a CNA, with the understanding that she would take the test soon. The NA worked throughout the facility, including on the night shift and in various units, performing CNA duties despite not being certified. The facility's policy required state certification for CNAs, but this was not enforced in this instance. Interviews and record reviews revealed that the NA was listed as eligible for hire on the CNA registry, but it was later discovered that she had not shown up for her certification exam, as indicated by the 'NS' (no show) status on the registry. The administrator was initially unaware of the meaning of this status and only clarified it after contacting the registry. The NA continued to work past the 120-day period allowed for uncertified nurse assistants to obtain certification. Multiple staff members confirmed that the NA worked as a CNA without certification, and the administrator was unsure of the specific duties she performed during her shifts.