Home Health Care Nursing Certification

by Jon Faranda

Overview

There are several ways to enter the home health care field: as a home health aide, nursing aide or registered nurse. Certification is required for all of these options, though the requirements vary widely.
Home Health Aides

Home health care aides must pass a competency test covering a variety of topics related to home health care. Aides may complete on-the-job training before taking the exam.

Nursing Aides

All nursing aides, including those working in home health care, must complete a 75-hour training course and pass a licensing examination.
Registered Nurses

Fully licensed and certified registered nurses working as home health care nurses do not need to obtain any additional specialized certification or licensing. Registered nurses in home health care may have significantly expanded duties, compared to nursing aides or home health aides.
NAHC Certification

Certification is available to all individuals working in home health care through the National Association of Home Care & Hospice. The program requires a 75-hour training program, observation and an exam.
Education Requirements

Home health aides often do not need a high school diploma for entry-level positions. Nursing aides may need to take courses at a vocational school or community college, and registered nurses must have an associate's or bachelor's degree.

Overview