A Nursing Assistant plays a vital role in healthcare, providing essential support to nurses and assisting patients with daily care needs. In Indiana, nurse aide must meet specific state regulations to practice legally and ensure high-quality patient care.

What Does a Nursing Assistant Do?

Nurse aide, often referred to as Certified Nurse Aide (CNAs), perform various duties, including:

• Assisting patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• Taking vital signs like blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate.
• Helping patients move, transfer, or reposition to prevent bedsores.
• Providing companionship and emotional support.
• Communicating patient needs to nurses and other healthcare professionals.
• Maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients.

Indiana-Specific Nursing Assistant Requirements

To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Indiana, individuals must comply with the state’s regulations:

• Training Requirements: Completion of a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP), which consists of at least 105 hours (30 classroom hours + 75 clinical hours).
• Certification Exam: After training, candidates must pass the Indiana Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (INACE), which includes a written test and a skills demonstration.
• Registry Listing: CNAs must be listed in the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), to be eligible to work in healthcare facilities.
• Background Check: A criminal background check is required before employment.
• Certification Renewal: CNAs in Indiana must renew their certification every two years by demonstrating at least 8 hours of paid work within the certification period.

Where Can Nurse Aide Work in Indiana?

Certified Nurse Aide in Indiana can work in various healthcare settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing homes and long-term care facilities
• Assisted living centers
• Home healthcare agencies
• Rehabilitation centers