What Are the Requirements for Home Health Aides in Maine?

Maine home health aides, or certified nursing assistants (CNAs), provide medical care in the home for sick, disabled or elderly clients. CNAs must complete a Maine training program and hold a certificate of training. CNAs work under the direct supervision of a registered nurse and are qualified to work in hospitals, nursing facilities, home health agencies and assisted housing programs.
  1. Education and Training

    • A high school diploma is not required,although it is preferred, and all CNAs must complete the ninth grade of school. CNA applicants must complete a Maine training program and hold a certificate of training. Maine's approved CNA training program is 180 hours comprised of 90 hours of classroom theory, 20 hours of clinical laboratory work and 70 hours of supervised clinical practice.

    Competency Test

    • Individuals must successfully complete the two-part Maine CNA competency test that includes oral and written components and a skills demonstration test.

      CNAs trained in other states must complete the CNA Bridge Examination, provide confirmation of completing 100 hours of training compliant with the federal CNA laws, provide proof of having worked 32 hours per week for three out of the past five years and be at least 16 years old.

    CNA Registry

    • The Maine CNA registry is maintained by the Division of Licensing and Regulatory Services that includes a list of all active and qualified CNAs. CNAs must be included on the registry to work for qualified agencies. CNAs maintain status on the registry if they work at least eight hours of qualified employment every 24 months, have no disqualifying complaints or criminal offenses and renew their CNA registry listing every 24 months.

    Skills Application

    • CNAs are only allowed to perform skills listed on the Official CNA Skills list under the supervision of a registered professional nurse.

    Background Check

    • CNAs must pass a complete criminal background check under all names used by the individual in the past.

    Supervision

    • CNAs are only allowed to work under the direct supervision of a qualified registered nurse and are not allowed to work as private duty providers.

Home Health Care - Related Articles