Nursing License Lookup - Tennessee CNA Registry

License Lookup Information

To verify a nurse's license in Tennessee, individuals can use the online nurse license lookup tool provided by the Tennessee Department of Health. This tool is designed to help the public confirm the licensure status of RNs, LPNs, and APNs within the state. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use this tool:

  1. Visit the Tennessee Department of Health's Website: Go to the official website of the Tennessee Department of Health. This can typically be found by searching for "Tennessee Department of Health" in your web browser.

  2. Access the Health Licensure Verification Page: On the department’s homepage, look for a section or link labeled ‘Health Professional Boards’ or something similar. Click on this to navigate to the specific area dealing with professional health licensure.

  3. Select the Appropriate License Type: You might find a dropdown menu or a set of icons representing different healthcare professions. Select the category that corresponds to nursing. This could be listed as ‘Nursing Board’, ‘Nurse Licensure’, or similar terms.

  4. Enter Required Information for the Lookup: You will be directed to a search page where you must input information to search for the nurse’s license. This typically includes the nurse’s name, and may also include additional identifiers like license number or social security number (last four digits).

  5. Perform the Search: After entering the necessary information, submit the search. Ensure that all information entered is accurate to facilitate a successful lookup.

  6. Review the Results: The search will yield results that typically include the nurse’s license number, the type of license, the status of the license (active, expired, or disciplinary actions), and the expiration date. This information helps verify the credentials and legal standing of a nurse in Tennessee.

  7. Additional Verification or Actions: If necessary, you can take further actions based on the information found. This could include contacting the Tennessee Board of Nursing for more details or clarification regarding the license status.

Specific Regulations or Criteria Related to Nurse Licensure in Tennessee:

  • Education and Examination: Nurses must complete an approved nursing education program and pass a national licensing examination (NCLEX for RNs and LPNs).

  • Renewal: Nurse licenses in Tennessee typically need to be renewed every two years. Nurses are required to meet certain continuing education requirements for license renewal.

  • Background Checks: Applicants for a nursing license in Tennessee are usually required to undergo a criminal background check.

  • Endorsement: Tennessee allows nurses who are licensed in other states to obtain a Tennessee license through endorsement, provided they meet state-specific requirements.

  • Disciplinary Actions: The Board has the authority to impose disciplinary actions on nurses who fail to adhere to professional standards, ranging from fines and reprimands to suspension or revocation of the license.

This lookup tool and the associated steps help ensure that only qualified and duly licensed nurses are allowed to practice in Tennessee, enhancing public trust and safety in healthcare settings.

Registry Information

In Tennessee, individuals can access the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) registry through the Tennessee Department of Health website. This registry is an essential tool for verifying the certification status of a CNA, which is crucial for employers and also for CNAs to ensure their credentials are up to date. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to verify a CNA's certification status in Tennessee:

  1. Visit the Tennessee Department of Health’s website: Access the health department's website and locate the health professional boards section, then proceed to the Nurse Aide section.

  2. Access the Registry: There should be a link or a section dedicated to the Nurse Aide Registry. Click on this to move forward.

  3. Search for the CNA: You’ll need specific information to search for a CNA, typically the CNA's name or their certification number. Enter the required information in the search fields.

  4. View the results: After entering the information, the details about the CNA's certification status, including the validity of the certification and any disciplinary actions, will be shown.

  5. Verification letter (if necessary): If you need a formal verification, some websites may allow you to download a verification letter or document directly from the website. If not available, there may be instructions on how to request one.

Unique Requirements or Procedures for Tennessee's CNA Registry:

  • Update of Information: CNAs are responsible for keeping their information up-to-date on the registry. This includes changes in name, address, and work status.

  • Renewal of Certification: In Tennessee, CNAs must renew their certification every two years. This typically involves completing continuing education units and may require proof of employment as a CNA for a certain number of hours within the renewal period.

  • Reinstatement: If a CNA lets their certification lapse, they may need to undergo additional training or retesting to reinstate their certification, depending on how long their certification has been expired.

  • Training Programs Approval: All CNA training programs in Tennessee must be approved by the state. This ensures that the training meets certain standards and adequately prepares students for the certification exam.

The Tennessee Department of Health provides detailed and updated information regarding CNA certification and registry. It's advisable to visit their website or contact them directly for the most accurate and current information regarding procedures and requirements.

State-Specific Regulations

In Tennessee, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and nurses must adhere to specific state requirements and regulations, managed by the Tennessee Department of Health. The requirements and regulations for CNAs and nurses include education, examination, and licensing criteria, which are designed to ensure that healthcare professionals provide safe and competent care.

CNAs in Tennessee:

  1. Education and Training:

    • CNAs must complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically consist of both classroom instruction and clinical training. The training covers basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and infection control among other topics.

  2. Examination:

    • After completing the training program, candidates must pass the Tennessee CNA competency examination administered through D&S Diversified Technologies. This exam consists of two parts: a written (or oral) exam and a skills demonstration component.

  3. Certification and Registration:

    • Once the examination is passed, candidates must be listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry. This registry is essential for their eligibility to work as CNAs in the state.

  4. Continuing Education and Renewal:

    • CNA certifications in Tennessee must be renewed every two years. CNAs must prove that they have worked for pay performing nursing-related duties under the supervision of a licensed nurse for at least eight hours during this two-year period to qualify for renewal.

Nurses (LPNs and RNs) in Tennessee:

  1. Education:

    • Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must complete an approved practical nursing program.
    • Registered Nurses (RNs) are required to complete an approved professional nursing program, which can be either an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

  2. Licensure Examination:

    • LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, while RNs have to pass the NCLEX-RN exam.

  3. Licensure by Endorsement:

    • Nurses who are licensed in another state can obtain a Tennessee license through endorsement, provided they meet Tennessee's licensing requirements.

  4. Renewal:

    • Nursing licenses in Tennessee are required to be renewed every two years. As part of the renewal process, nurses must complete continuing education activities.

Recent Updates or Changes:

  • Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC): Tennessee is a member of the eNLC, which allows nurses to practice in other eNLC states without having to obtain additional licenses.
  • Opioid Training Requirements: There might be ongoing updates regarding mandatory opioid training or other specific continuing education due to legislative changes meant to address public health concerns.

Relevant Resources:

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding CNA and nursing licensure in Tennessee, here are some useful links:

These resources will provide detailed, current information on education requirements, examination registration, and license renewal procedures for CNAs and nurses in Tennessee.