Module 1: Introduction to Nurse Assistant

Section 1: Key Terminology

• Review terms listed in the terminology section.
• Spell and pronounce listed items accurately.
• Use terms in their correct context.

Section 2: Legal Implications

California Code of Regulations Title 22 Division 5

• Establishes standards for licensing and certification of health facilities.
• Sets minimum standards of care for patients/residents.
• Governs the nurse assistant training program and certification requirements (initial and renewal).
• Facilities must ensure patient/resident rights and safety.
• Violations can lead to state citations and fines.

Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987

• Federal law requiring nurse aides to receive training and pass a competency exam within four months of employment.
• Sets standards for care for Medicare and Medi-Cal reimbursement.
• Authorizes federal government to contract states for compliance surveys.
• Violations may lead to loss of training program, penalties, denial of payment, state monitoring, license termination.

Section 3: Nurse Assistant Requirements

As per Title 22 and OBRA

• Complete training course approved by California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
  • Minimum 60 hours of theory (including Alzheimer’s and elder abuse).
  • Minimum 100 hours of clinical training.
• Students must be paid if employed by a skilled nursing facility.
• Criminal screening on enrollment; history and physical exam; TB clearance (HS 283B form).
• State competency test: includes written and skills test, 3 attempts allowed.
  • Facilities pay test fee for employees.
  • Fee reimbursement if hired within a year.

Certification Renewal

• Complete CDPH renewal application form HS283C.
• 48 hours of continuing education every two years, at least 12 hours each year.
• Verify work for pay in past two years.

Section 4: Qualities of a Successful Nurse Assistant

• Dependable, considerate, empathetic, flexible, honest, compassionate.
• Observant, well-groomed, organized, respectful of cultural differences.

Section 5: Nurse Assistant Scope of Practice

• Tasks permitted: according to state/federal law and facility policies.
• Responsibilities: safe environment, hygiene, patient property care, standard precautions.
• Assistance with ADLs: activities of daily living, medical/rehabilitative activities.
• Documentation: patient care and psychosocial needs.

Section 6: Professionalism

• Definition: Ethical, competent, knowledgeable care with high standards.
• Behaviors and attitudes: responsibility, truthfulness, improving skills.
• Appearance: professional, clean, following facility policies.

Section 7: Ethical Behavior

• Patient/resident care: protect life, promote health, preserve dignity.
• Work ethics: punctuality, following instructions, being a team member.
• Unacceptable behaviors: abuse, stealing, insubordination, dishonesty.

Section 8: Confidentiality

• Maintain confidentiality: discuss personal information appropriately.
• Examples: Adhere to HIPAA, participate in team conferences.
• Breaches: Sharing info with unauthorized people, media, community.