Who can provide nursing aide services and be included in calculating minimum staffing hours?

In the context of calculating minimum staffing hours for nursing aide services, the inclusion of specific roles depends on the qualifications and regulations governing those positions. A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is trained to provide nursing care and has completed a formal education program and licensing exam. As such, an LPN can perform various tasks associated with patient care and can be counted in staffing calculations.

In contrast, although a certified nursing assistant (CNA) provides essential support and is often involved in direct patient care, the option specified does not require certification and may not encompass other roles that are as fully qualified in terms of comprehensive nursing responsibilities.

A registered nurse (RN) has extensive training and provides higher levels of care, but in the context of minimum staffing calculations, the role of nursing aides is more accurately represented by LPNs or CNAs. Unlicensed assistive personnel, often performing basic care tasks under supervision, do not meet the same regulatory criteria as licensed nurses, making their count in minimum staffing calculations inappropriate in this scenario.

Thus, the inclusion of a licensed practical nurse ensures that the staffing reflects appropriately qualified personnel capable of meeting the required care standards.