Restorative Nurse Assistant (RNA)

Although there are currently no federal or state regulations for Restorative Nurse Assistants a great deal of thought and discussion focused on the need for such a training program. The RNA is an expanded role for the Certified Nurse Assistant! It is the right of every individual to receive optimum care delivered by trained personnel. Federal and state laws and regulations are adopted to ensure quality care to residents of health care facilities. The RNA acquires special knowledge, skills, and techniques in therapeutic rehabilitation as prescribed and supervised by licensed personnel.

Prerequisites for the RNA Course

It is recommended that the RNA course be offered to those individuals who qualify based on the following criteria:

  • The individual should be a practicing CNA with at least six (6) months experience after completion of the CNA program.
  • The director of nursing of the facility at which he/she is employed should recommend the individual.
  • The individual should have a high school diploma or GED.

Education Program

A manual developed by the Department of Health and Senior Services is available. The manual is available at Assessment Resource Center 800-366-8232 or 573-882-4694. Item number for instructors is 50-5070I and for students is 50-5070S. A recommended program consists of the following:

  • The program constitutes at least 30 hours of classroom/laboratory instruction.
  • A minimum of 30 hours of clinical practice will be given each participant under the supervision of the facilitator and licensed therapist.
  • Hours of clinical practice may vary with each student based on mastery learning.
  • Evaluation includes written tests.

Training Facilities

Recommended training sites include the following:

  • Area Vocational-Technical Schools
  • Comprehensive High Schools
  • Community Colleges
  • Selected four-year institutions
  • Classes may be held in ICF/SNF level of care long term care facilities.

Instructor Qualifications

The following minimum requirements are recommended:

  • The course may be facilitated by an RN (preferably a Certified Rehabilitation Nurse or Certified Gerontological Nurse). She/he may teach up to Unit VI (Specific Care Problems of the LTC Resident).
  • Individual consultants (i.e., physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist) should teach specific restorative procedures in their respective areas.

Test Procedure

A recommended testing procedure is:

  • The practical exam will consist of a minimum of six skills, two from each discipline (Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy). Plus four (4) required skills:
    1. Draping the resident for treatment/procedures
    2. Range of motion exercises
    3. Transfer techniques
    4. Ambulation activities

For further information regarding this program contact us.