Nursing Assistants in Iowa

The state of Iowa does not have an actual CNA competency test that students are required to take at regional testing sites. Instead, state-approved programs administer a two-part final test as approved by the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry that counts for the competency examination at the end of the training program. Students must pass both parts to have their names submitted to the state’s registry for inclusion.

The first part of the examination tests CNA theory with a written test. This test may also be taken orally by students who struggle with reading English. The test has 100 questions and must be passed by at least a 70 percent score.

The second part of the examination is the skills test, during which students demonstrate hands-on skills in front of a Registered Nurse Evaluator. The Evaluator will randomly select seven skills for each student from a list of 32 skills. Each skill has critical elements that must be performed perfectly for the student to pass the test.

The cost for the written examination is $45, and the cost for the skills test is $75. Each part of the examination can be taken up to three times before the student will be required to retrain. Those who pass both parts of the test will have their names submitted to the Direct Care Worker Registry and can expect to be added to the Registry within 14 business days. The registry does not distribute certificates.

Many out-of-state CNAs can easily transfer their certifications to Iowa should they move here. This is known as reciprocity, and it does not require fee payment to Iowa. To begin the process, CNAs should fill out the first section of the Direct Care Workers Registry application as well as the second section if they have already been hired by a long-term skilled health care facility in Iowa. They will also need to include a copy of their certifications from their prior states. After the CNA send the application to the Registry, the Registry will verify status with the prior state. CNAs will need to be listed as active and in good standing with the prior state and must have a clean criminal background check.

Iowa CNAs must work for at least eight hours for pay every 24 months. However, not all health care-related work counts. Continuing education hours and volunteer work do not count. In addition, only work in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and hospital swing bed units, counts towards the eight hours. Employers must keep the Direct Care Worker Registry updated on employment changes to ensure that renewal goes smoothly. CNAs must also complete at least 12 hours of in-service continuing education every year to be eligible to renew. CNAs who do not work the required hours will be required to challenge both parts of the competency examination but will not need to retrain. Renewal fees are covered by employers here.

Links
Iowa Department of Public Health
Iowa Board of Nursing
Iowa Nurse Aide Registry

Contacts
Division of Health Facilities
Lucas State Office Building – 3rd Floor
321 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319

Phone: 515.281.4077
Fax: 515.281.6259
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.dia-hfd.state.ia.us