CNA Classes in New Mexico

Before enrolling in a CNA program in New Mexico, you should understand the basic requirements:

• No specific minimum age requirement is specified in state regulations, though many programs set their own age limits
• Must pass a fingerprint-based federal and state criminal history screening through the Caregivers Criminal History Screening Program (CCHSP)
• Background checks include verification against the Employee Abuse Registry, Office of Inspector General exclusion list, and National Sex Offender Public Website
• Must demonstrate language proficiency in English or Spanish (the oral exam is available in both languages)
• Health requirements may include immunizations and tuberculosis testing (specific requirements vary by training program)

The background check process is particularly important as it helps ensure patient safety. The New Mexico Health Care Authority takes this screening seriously to protect vulnerable populations in healthcare settings.

New Mexico follows federal guidelines for CNA education with some state-specific elements:

• Total of 75 clock hours minimum required:
  • 59 hours of classroom and laboratory instruction
  • 16 hours of supervised clinical training in a licensed healthcare facility
• The curriculum covers essential nursing assistant skills including:
  • Basic nursing care techniques
  • Infection control procedures
  • Patient rights and dignity
  • Communication techniques
  • Personal care skills
  • Safety protocols
  • Vital signs monitoring

Programs are available in three main formats:

• School-based programs at community colleges (such as Central New Mexico Community College)
• Mobile training units that serve rural areas
• Facility-based programs partnered with nursing homes

All programs must have approved clinical sites with signed agreements, and students must complete their training within the timeframe specified by their program.

Selecting a quality training program approved by the New Mexico Health Care Authority will prepare you for success:

• Contact the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry at [email protected] for a current list of approved programs
• Program costs typically range from $800-$1,200 and may include:
  • Tuition
  • Textbooks and study materials
  • Background check fees (approximately $50)
  • Uniforms (approximately $40)
  • Additional supplies

Financial assistance options include:

• Nursing Loan-for-Service program: Offers up to $16,000 per year with 100% forgiveness for 4 years of service in shortage areas
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding for eligible low-income students
• Employer sponsorship through Medicaid-certified nursing facilities, which often pay testing fees for employees

When selecting a program, consider factors like location, schedule flexibility, cost, and whether the program offers job placement assistance to find the best fit for your situation.

After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination now administered by Headmaster LLP (transitioned from Prometric in July 2024):

• The exam consists of two components:
  • Knowledge test: 60 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit
  • Skills evaluation: Performance of 5 randomly selected skills, including mandatory handwashing and indirect care behaviors
• Exam fees:
  • Written knowledge test: $40
  • Oral knowledge test: $45
  • Clinical skills evaluation: $100
  • Renewal: $25
• You must achieve a passing score of 70% (42 out of 60 correct) on the knowledge test
• The skills evaluation has a time limit of 31-40 minutes
• Candidates must also serve as a “resident” for another testing candidate during the skills portion
• Results are provided immediately after testing, and successful candidates are listed on the registry within 4 business days

You have 24 months from completing your training program to pass the exam. Applications are processed through the New Mexico Nurse Aide Exam website, where you can also access helpful resources like the Clinical Skills Checklist and practice tests.

The final step in becoming a certified nursing assistant in New Mexico:

• The New Mexico Health Care Authority maintains the Nurse Aide Registry
• After passing your exam, you are automatically listed on the registry
• Employers verify active registry status through the Headmaster TMU portal before hiring
• For privacy protection, Social Security numbers are masked in the registry
• Public access is limited to certification status and does not include criminal or abuse records

The New Mexico Department of Health manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in New Mexico.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://nmhealth.org/about/dhi/hflc/prop/nar/
• Phone: (505) 476-9040
• Email: [email protected]

The registry provides services such as:

• Verifying certification status
• Processing renewal applications
• Handling license transfers
• Investigating complaints
• Maintaining a searchable database of certified nurse aides

To check your certification status, visit the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://www.nmhealth.org/resource/view/1024/ 

Maintaining your CNA certification in New Mexico requires adherence to specific guidelines:

Renewal Requirements:

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 8 hours as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
• Continuing education: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
• Renewal process:
  • Your employer must submit verification of employment through the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry
  • CNAs are responsible for ensuring their employer submits the verification
  • No renewal fee required
• Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to complete a competency evaluation or retake the CNA exam if expired more than 24 months

For renewal information and verification forms, visit: https://www.nmhealth.org/about/dhi/hflc/prop/nar/ 

If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in New Mexico, follow these steps for reciprocity:

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry Reciprocity Application
• Submit required documentation:
  • Copy of your current CNA certification
  • Proof of completing a training program that meets federal requirements
  • Verification of employment as a CNA within the last 24 months
  • State-issued ID or driver’s license
  • Social Security card
• Mail your application and documents to the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry

Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. New Mexico does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://www.nmhealth.org/about/dhi/hflc/prop/nar/ 

While New Mexico doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:

Education Providers:

• New Mexico Higher Education Department
  • Website: https://hed.state.nm.us/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at community colleges throughout the state
• New Mexico Health Care Association
  • Website: https://www.nmhca.org/education-events/
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs