Renewing your State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) certification in Ohio is a crucial step in maintaining your eligibility to work as a nursing assistant in the state. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) requires STNAs to renew their certification every two years to ensure that they stay up-to-date with the latest skills and knowledge in patient care. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to complete the Ohio STNA renewal form and meet the requirements for recertification.
Why is STNA Renewal Important?
STNA renewal is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that nursing assistants in Ohio possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality patient care. Secondly, it helps to maintain the integrity of the healthcare system by ensuring that only qualified individuals are working in patient care roles. Finally, STNA renewal is a requirement for employment as a nursing assistant in Ohio, and failing to renew your certification can result in loss of employment.
Eligibility Requirements for STNA Renewal
To be eligible for STNA renewal in Ohio, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be currently certified as a STNA in Ohio
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Have a valid government-issued ID
- Have completed the required number of continuing education hours (12 hours every 2 years)
- Have a clean disciplinary record with the ODH
Continuing Education Requirements
The ODH requires STNAs to complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years to be eligible for recertification. The continuing education hours must be completed through an ODH-approved provider and must cover topics such as patient care, medical terminology, and infection control.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Ohio STNA Renewal Form
Completing the Ohio STNA renewal form is a straightforward process that can be done online or by mail. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gather required documents: Before starting the renewal process, make sure you have all the required documents, including your current STNA certification, government-issued ID, and Social Security number.
- Create an account: If you don't already have an account with the ODH, create one on the ODH website. This will give you access to the online renewal portal.
- Log in to the online renewal portal: Log in to the online renewal portal using your account credentials.
- Fill out the renewal form: Fill out the renewal form, making sure to provide all the required information, including your name, address, and Social Security number.
- Upload required documents: Upload the required documents, including your current STNA certification and government-issued ID.
- Pay the renewal fee: Pay the renewal fee, which is currently $25.
- Submit the application: Submit the application and wait for processing.
Mail-in Renewal
If you prefer to renew by mail, you can download the renewal form from the ODH website and mail it to the address listed on the form. Make sure to include all the required documents and the renewal fee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When completing the Ohio STNA renewal form, there are several common mistakes to avoid, including:
- Failing to provide required documents: Make sure to provide all the required documents, including your current STNA certification and government-issued ID.
- Failing to pay the renewal fee: Make sure to pay the renewal fee, which is currently $25.
- Providing incorrect information: Make sure to provide accurate information, including your name, address, and Social Security number.
Renewal Timeline
The renewal timeline for Ohio STNA certification is as follows:
- 90 days before expiration: The ODH will send a reminder notice to your email address on file.
- 60 days before expiration: You can renew your certification online or by mail.
- 30 days before expiration: The ODH will send a final reminder notice to your email address on file.
- Expiration date: Your certification will expire if you have not renewed it by this date.
Conclusion
Renewing your Ohio STNA certification is a crucial step in maintaining your eligibility to work as a nursing assistant in the state. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can ensure that you complete the renewal form correctly and meet the requirements for recertification. Remember to avoid common mistakes, such as failing to provide required documents or paying the renewal fee, and to complete the renewal process on time to avoid expiration of your certification.
We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you through the Ohio STNA renewal process. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to the ODH or a qualified healthcare professional.
How often do I need to renew my STNA certification in Ohio?
+You need to renew your STNA certification every 2 years.
What is the renewal fee for STNA certification in Ohio?
+The renewal fee for STNA certification in Ohio is currently $25.
Can I renew my STNA certification online?
+Yes, you can renew your STNA certification online through the ODH website.