GNA is Maryland's certification for nursing assistants working in geriatric settings. It sits on top of CNA certification rather than replacing it, and Maryland nursing home shifts generally depend on it. It sits with your other nursing credentials.
How is a GNA different from a CNA?
One builds on the other. CNA certification qualifies you as a nursing assistant. GNA certification is the additional Maryland credential for nursing assistants working with older adults, and nursing homes in the state generally require it. A CNA without it can work in some settings but finds nursing home shifts closed, which catches out clinicians arriving from states where one certification covers everything.
Who issues it?
The Maryland Board of Nursing, which is itself unusual. Most states run nursing assistant certification through a health department registry. Maryland places it with the nursing board instead, so your certification record sits in the same system as a registered nurse's license.
How do you get one?
CNA first, then the exam. You complete an approved nursing assistant program and hold Maryland CNA certification, then pass the geriatric nursing assistant competency exam, which includes a written portion and a skills demonstration. Clinicians certified in another state usually need to establish Maryland certification before sitting for it, so start earlier than feels necessary.
How does renewal work?
On a cycle rather than indefinitely. Maryland renews nursing assistant certification periodically and expects evidence that you have been working in the role, which means a long gap can complicate a renewal that would otherwise be routine. Check your expiration before it becomes urgent, since Maryland shifts close when the certification lapses.
Adding it to your profile
Upload the certificate showing your name, certification number, and expiration date.
- Tap Menu in the top left of the Nursa app.
- Select Profile.
- Scroll to the Credentials section.
- Tap Add your Credential.
- Upload your document as a PDF, WORD, JPG, or PNG.
Sign up as a clinician and get the GNA on file if you plan to pick up Maryland nursing home shifts.
