CNA Classes in Massachusetts

After completing the Massachusetts CNA training requirements, students can apply to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. This evaluation has two parts, which are the knowledge section and the skills section. The knowledge test is written and has 60 multiple-choice questions. This test can be completed orally in the case of some individuals with a documented need. In this case, it is performed using a CD player, and it will only be able to be completed at ARC Regional test sites. The knowledge test is taken with a group of students, and individuals will have up to two hours to complete it. The skills test, on the other hand, is completed individually and requires students to demonstrate their hands-on training much as if they were in a clinical setting with the help of an individual over the age of 18. The skills section is performed in front of a registered nurse.

Although the knowledge and skills tests are always administered on the same day, they are graded separately. Should a student fail a section, he or she will only be required to retake that particular part. The knowledge section may be taken up to four times total and the skills section up to three times total before students are required to retrain.

Individuals will be notified by mail within three weeks as to whether or not they have passed. The cost to take both sections of the evaluation is $93 or $103 if the knowledge section is administered orally.

Those who are already registered as CNAs in another state have the option of becoming a Massachusetts CNA. Reciprocity is free and requires filling out an application. Individuals can fill out a Reciprocity Application and send it to the Nurse Aid Registry of their prior state for verification. However, because the states of California, Louisiana, Colorado, North Carolina and Missouri do not process written applications, these completed applications will have to be sent to the Massachusetts Nurse Aid Program. Once the application is approved, a Massachusetts CNA certificate and wallet card should be received within 15 days. A background check is not required although the CNA should be in good standing with his or her previous state’s registry with no complaints of abuse or neglect.

To remain on the Massachusetts Nurse Aid Registry, individuals must renew their certifications every two years. The new expiration date will be determined by adding two years from the last date of employment. Applicants for renewal must have worked at least eight hours within the last two years. In the case of privately employed CNAs, the applicant will need to have his or her supervising nurse or doctor sign the application. Those who do not meet these qualifications or who have not worked in the last two years will have to retake both the knowledge and the clinical examinations. Renewal is free, and individuals will receive their new certificates within 30 days following application.

Click below for the following:
– Red Cross Testing Application
– Red Cross Reciprocity Application
– Red Cross Renewal Form

Links

Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Massachusetts Nurses Aide Registry

Contacts

Nurse Aide Registry Program
99 Chauncy Street, 2nd Floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
Telephone: (617) 753-8144