CNA Eligibility and Qualifications 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A person with a prior felony conviction wants to become a CNA. What is most likely true?
- They are automatically disqualified in all states
- Eligibility depends on the nature of the conviction and state law (Correct answer)
- They must wait 10 years before applying
- They only need a character reference letter
Correct answer: Eligibility depends on the nature of the conviction and state law
Most states conduct background checks and evaluate felony convictions on a case-by-case basis, with certain offenses (especially abuse or neglect) typically disqualifying applicants.
Question 2: Which federal registry must CNAs be listed on to work in Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facilities?
- National Provider Identifier Registry
- Nurse Aide Registry (Correct answer)
- Healthcare Worker Clearinghouse
- CMS Professional Roster
Correct answer: Nurse Aide Registry
The Nurse Aide Registry (NAR), maintained by each state, is required for CNAs to legally work in facilities certified by Medicare or Medicaid.
Question 3: How often must a CNA typically renew their certification to remain active on the registry?
- Every 6 months
- Every year
- Every 2 years (Correct answer)
- Every 5 years
Correct answer: Every 2 years
Most states require CNA certification renewal every two years, which includes proof of recent work activity in a nursing-related role.
Question 4: A CNA candidate fails the skills portion of the competency exam. What is typically allowed?
- They must retake the entire program before testing again
- They may retake only the skills portion up to three times (Correct answer)
- They automatically receive a provisional license
- They must appeal to the state board before retesting
Correct answer: They may retake only the skills portion up to three times
Federal law allows candidates up to three attempts to pass the competency evaluation; additional training may be required if all attempts are failed.
Question 5: Which document must a CNA candidate typically present at a testing center before the exam?
- Proof of employment at a nursing facility
- Government-issued photo ID (Correct answer)
- Letters of recommendation from instructors
- A notarized academic transcript
Correct answer: Government-issued photo ID
Testing centers require valid, government-issued photo identification to verify the candidate's identity before administering the exam.
Question 6: What is the minimum age requirement to enroll in a state-approved CNA training program in most U.S. states?
- 14 years old
- 16 years old (Correct answer)
- 18 years old
- 21 years old
Correct answer: 16 years old
Most states set the minimum age at 16, though some require 18; applicants should verify their specific state's requirement.
Question 7: If a CNA's certification lapses due to inactivity, what is typically required to reinstate it?
- Submitting a written request to the state health department
- Completing additional clinical hours or retraining (Correct answer)
- Passing only the written portion of the exam again
- Obtaining a physician's endorsement
Correct answer: Completing additional clinical hours or retraining
An inactive or lapsed CNA certification usually requires the individual to complete a refresher course or additional clinical training before reinstatement.
CNA Eligibility and Qualifications 3
A person with a prior felony conviction wants to become a CNA.
What is most likely true?