Nursing License Lookup - Arkansas CNA Registry

License Lookup Information

In Arkansas, verifying a nurse's license can be crucial for employers, patients, and other stakeholders to ensure the nurse is authorized to practice within the state. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing provides an online tool that facilitates this process by allowing individuals to look up and verify the licensure status of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and advanced practice nurses. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the nurse license lookup tool for Arkansas:

Step-by-Step Instructions for Nurse License Lookup

  1. Access the Website:

    • Start by visiting the official website of the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

  2. Navigate to the License Verification Section:

    • Look for a tab or link that mentions "License Verification" or "Verify a License" on the homepage. This will direct you to the search tool.

  3. Enter the Required Information:

    • You will typically need to enter some specific details to perform the search. Typically, this includes the nurse’s name, license number, or other identifying information. Some search tools also allow for a broader search by just entering a last name or partially filling the fields.

  4. Conduct the Search:

    • After filling in the relevant details, submit the query to initiate the search.

  5. Review the Results:

    • Once the search is complete, review the list of names and details provided. Click on the relevant entry to view more detailed information about the nurse’s license status, type, and validity.

  6. Verify Details:

    • Ensure that the detailed information corresponds correctly to the nurse in question. Check the license number, type of license, expiration date, and any disciplinary actions or restrictions.

  7. Documentation:

    • Depending on your needs, you might want to document or save the details of the license verification for your records. Ensure you follow all relevant privacy guidelines.

Important Regulations or Criteria in Arkansas:

  • Renewal and Continuing Education: Nurses in Arkansas must renew their licenses periodically (annually or biannually depending on the type of license). This often requires completing a specific number of continuing education hours.

  • Multi-State Licensure: Arkansas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to practice in other compact states without having to obtain additional licenses. Always verify if the nurse holds a compact license if they are practicing in multiple states.

  • Special Licenses: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Arkansas have separate licenses and may also have prescriptive authority. Verification of APRNs should include checking any additional credentials and authorizations.

  • Public Safety: Disciplinary actions, if any, against a nurse are also listed on the license verification page. This includes suspensions, revocations, or any restrictions placed on the professional practice.

Using this license verification tool provided by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing ensures that stakeholders can confirm the licensure status of nurses in Arkansas, helping to uphold the quality and safety of healthcare delivered across the state. Make sure to follow privacy and legal guidelines when accessing and using sensitive personal information.

Registry Information

To access the CNA registry for Arkansas and verify the status of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, you should follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Arkansas CNA Registry Website: The Arkansas Department of Human Services maintains a specific section on their website dedicated to the CNA registry.

  2. Use the Search Function: On the registry's website, there is usually a search function where you can enter the CNA’s name or certification number to check their certification status.

  3. Contact the Registry: If you are unable to find the information online or require additional details, you can contact the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care (OLTC) by phone or email for assistance.

  4. Understand the Requirements: In Arkansas, CNAs must renew their certification every two years. To maintain their status on the registry, CNAs are required to complete at least 8 hours of paid work as a CNA during this period.

  5. Check for Any Penalties or Flags: The registry also details any infractions or penalties that might have been placed on a CNA's record, which is important for employers to consider during the hiring process.

  6. Access Additional Services: The Arkansas CNA registry also provides information about training programs and the process needed to be listed on the registry for new CNAs.

The registry's website and contact methods are maintained for the convenience of employers, patients, and CNAs to ensure that the healthcare provided by CNAs meets the state's standards of safety and quality. This system also supports the professional development and accountability of nursing assistants in Arkansas.

State-Specific Regulations

In Arkansas, certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and nurses must adhere to specific requirements and regulations set by state boards and agencies. Here are some key points outlining these requirements for each group:

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)

  1. Certification Process: To become a CNA in Arkansas, candidates must complete a state-approved training program and pass the competency examination. The training programs usually last for a few weeks and cover both classroom instruction and practical training.

  2. Renewal: CNA certifications in Arkansas need to be renewed every two years. CNAs are required to have performed paid nursing or nursing-related services in the last 24 months to qualify for renewal.

  3. Registry: Arkansas maintains a CNA registry where all certified nursing assistants must be listed. This registry is important for verification of a CNA’s status by employers.

Nurses (LPN/RN/APRN)

  1. Licensure by Examination for LPNs and RNs: To be licensed as an LPN or RN in Arkansas, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN for Practical Nurses or the NCLEX-RN for Registered Nurses. Applicants must also have completed an approved nursing education program.

  2. APRN Regulation: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Arkansas, who include Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Clinical Nurse Specialists, must have a valid RN license in Arkansas or a compact state and meet specific educational and certification requirements related to their specialty.

  3. Continuing Education: Both RNs and LPNs are required to complete certain continuing education (CE) hours to maintain licensure. Requirements can vary, including specific courses depending on practice areas or emerging health needs.

  4. License Renewal: Nursing licenses must be renewed every two years. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing provides details on required documentation and any CE credits needed upon renewal.

Recent Updates or Changes in Regulations

  • Arkansas continually updates its licensing procedures and regulations. For instance, recent modifications might include changes in the CE requirements or updates due to health policies and emerging issues, such as public health emergencies. It's important for CNAs and nurses to stay informed about these changes through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Links to Official Resources

For the most accurate and detailed information regarding the regulations, requirements, and any recent changes affecting CNAs and nurses in Arkansas, here are some relevant official resources:

These resources provide regulatory details, application forms, renewal procedures, and more comprehensive guidelines relevant to nursing professionals in the state of Arkansas.