The Florida Senate

468.823  Certified nursing assistants; certification requirement.--

(1)  The department shall issue a certificate to practice as a certified nursing assistant to any person who demonstrates a minimum competency to read and write and meets one of the following requirements:

(a)  Has successfully completed an approved training program and achieved a minimum score, established by rule of the department, on the nursing assistant competency examination, which consists of a written portion and skills-demonstration portion approved by the department and administered at a site and by personnel approved by the department.

(b)  Has achieved a minimum score, established by rule of the department, on the nursing assistant competency examination, which consists of a written portion and skills-demonstration portion, approved by the department and administered at a site and by personnel approved by the department and:

1.  Has a high school diploma, or its equivalent; or

2.  Is at least 18 years of age.

(c)  Is currently certified in another state; is listed on that state's certified nursing assistant registry; has not been found to have committed abuse, neglect, or exploitation in that state; and has successfully completed a national nursing assistant evaluation in order to receive certification in that state.

(2)  If an applicant fails to pass the nursing assistant competency examination in three attempts, the applicant is not eligible for reexamination unless the applicant completes an approved training program.

(3)  An oral examination shall be administered as a substitute for the written portion of the examination upon request. The oral examination shall be administered at a site and by personnel approved by the department.

(4)  The department shall adopt rules to provide for the initial certification of certified nursing assistants.

(5)  A certified nursing assistant shall maintain a current address with the department in accordance with s. 455.717.

History.--s. 204, ch. 99-397.