Your 2025 Guide to Becoming an STNA in Ohio: Top Programs, Requirements, Exam & Salary Insights

Quick Summary: Ready to launch a rewarding healthcare career in the Buckeye State? Becoming a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) in Ohio is a direct path to making a significant impact. This comprehensive guide navigates you through every essential step: understanding Ohio's specific certification requirements (including criminal background checks), finding Ohio Department of Health (ODH)-approved training programs, mastering the D&S Headmaster competency exam, and exploring salary expectations across Ohio. We've included real-world scenarios, financial aid information, and crucial tips for career growth and maintaining your active status on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. Whether you're new to healthcare or seeking a new direction, this resource is your launchpad for a successful STNA career in Ohio.

Introduction: Your Path to Becoming an STNA in Ohio

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to becoming a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) in Ohio! If you're looking for a fulfilling career where you can provide direct care and make a positive impact on people's lives, becoming an STNA is an excellent choice. This guide is designed specifically for Ohioans, outlining the steps to certification as mandated by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). We'll cover everything from finding an approved training program and understanding background check requirements to passing the state competency exam and exploring career opportunities across the Buckeye State. Let's begin your journey into this vital healthcare profession.

1. What is a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) in Ohio?

In Ohio, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is officially referred to as a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA). An STNA is a trained healthcare professional who provides essential, hands-on care to patients and residents in various healthcare settings. They work under the direct supervision of licensed nursing staff, such as Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Key responsibilities of an STNA include:

• Assisting individuals with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and eating.
• Measuring and accurately recording vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure).
• Helping with mobility, including transferring individuals, assisting with ambulation (walking), and repositioning to prevent complications like pressure sores.
• Observing individuals' physical, mental, and emotional conditions and reporting any significant changes to the supervising nurse.
• Providing companionship, emotional support, and ensuring patient/resident rights are respected.
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized environment for those under their care.

The STNA role requires compassion, patience, strong communication skills, physical stamina, and meticulous attention to detail. It's a critical entry-level position that provides invaluable experience for those wishing to advance in the nursing field or other healthcare careers.

2. Job Outlook & Demand for STNAs in Ohio

The demand for STNAs in Ohio is consistently strong and is projected to continue growing. This is largely due to Ohio's aging population and the increasing need for long-term care and home health services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady national growth for nursing assistants, and Ohio plays a significant role in this demand due to its substantial healthcare infrastructure.

Ohio's Job Outlook projections, often available through OhioMeansJobs.com, also indicate a positive growth trend for Nurse Aides. Many positions become available each year due to new job creation and the need to replace workers who retire or move into other occupations. STNAs are sought after in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare agencies.

3. Understanding Local STNA Demand Across Ohio

STNA job opportunities are prevalent throughout Ohio, with varying concentrations by region:

• Major Metropolitan Areas: Cleveland (Cuyahoga County), Columbus (Franklin County), and Cincinnati (Hamilton County), along with their surrounding metropolitan areas like Dayton and Toledo, have the highest concentration of hospitals, nursing homes, and home care agencies, leading to a large number of STNA positions.
• Other Urban Centers: Cities like Akron, Canton, Youngstown, and Springfield also have robust healthcare sectors with consistent demand for STNAs.
• Rural & Appalachian Ohio: While the volume of large facilities may be less than in major cities, there is a steady and often critical need for STNAs in community hospitals, local nursing homes, and especially in the growing home health sector to serve geographically dispersed populations.

Exploring OhioMeansJobs.com and connecting with local healthcare providers and ODH-approved training programs can offer insights into current regional demand.

4. STNA Salary & Benefits in Ohio

Average Compensation

Salaries for STNAs in Ohio are competitive within the Midwest region. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for May 2023, Nursing Assistants in Ohio earned a mean hourly wage of $17.87, which translates to an average annual salary of approximately $37,170.

Wages can vary based on geographic location (e.g., higher in major metropolitan areas compared to some rural regions), years of experience, type of facility (hospitals often pay more than some nursing homes), and any additional certifications or specialized skills. Entry-level positions might start in the $14-$16/hour range, while experienced STNAs in high-demand settings or with specialized roles can earn more.

Pay by Setting (Typical Ohio Estimates)

Setting	Average Hourly Wage Range (OH)
Hospitals	$17.00 – $23.00+
Nursing Homes / Long-Term Care Facilities	$16.00 – $21.00
Home Health Agencies	$15.00 – $20.00 (plus potential mileage)
Assisted Living Facilities	$15.50 – $20.50

Note: These are general estimates. Always research specific regions and employers.

Shift Differentials & Overtime

Many Ohio healthcare facilities offer shift differentials (e.g., an extra $0.75-$2.50/hour) for working evening, night, weekend, or holiday shifts. Overtime pay (1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 40 in a week) can also increase earnings.

Common Benefits Packages

Full-time STNAs in Ohio, particularly those working for larger healthcare systems or established facilities, may receive benefits packages that include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plans (e.g., 401(k) or 403(b))
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Tuition reimbursement or assistance for further education
• Life insurance and disability coverage options

5. Ohio STNA Certification Requirements (ODH)

To become a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) in Ohio and be listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry, you must meet specific requirements set by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH):

• Age & Education: You must generally be at least 16 years old to enroll in a training program. A high school diploma or GED is often preferred or required by training programs and employers, though not always a strict state mandate for training itself.
• Complete an ODH-Approved Training Program (NATCEP): You must successfully complete a Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) approved by the Ohio Department of Health. This program must include a minimum of 75 clock hours, consisting of:
  • A minimum of 59 clock hours of classroom instruction and skills lab practice.
  • A minimum of 16 clock hours of supervised resident care (clinical) training in a long-term care facility (nursing home).
• Pass the Competency Evaluation Program (CEP) Exam: After completing training, you must pass the state-approved Nurse Aide competency exam. In Ohio, this exam is administered by D&S Diversified Technologies (also known as Headmaster or HDMaster). It includes two parts: a Skills Test and a Knowledge Test (Written or Oral).
• Criminal Background Checks: While ODH doesn't conduct the check for initial registry placement after testing, Ohio law requires individuals working in direct care positions with older adults or individuals with disabilities to undergo criminal records checks through the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification (BCI&I) and sometimes the FBI. These are typically conducted by the employer or required by the training program for clinical placement. Certain convictions are disqualifying offenses for employment as an STNA.
• Health Screening: Training programs usually require proof of certain immunizations and a recent TB test (PPD skin test or chest X-ray) before clinical training begins.
• Application for Examination: Your training program will typically assist you with the application process to take the D&S Headmaster exam.

There are different eligibility routes to take the exam (e.g., new nurse aide candidate, out-of-state nurse aide, nursing student). The most common is Route 1: successfully completing an ODH-approved NATCEP.

Always verify the most current and detailed requirements with the Ohio Department of Health NATCEP website and your chosen ODH-approved training program.

6. Finding ODH-Approved STNA Training Programs in OH

Choosing a Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) that is approved by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is crucial. Only graduates from these approved programs are eligible to take the state competency exam and become a State Tested Nurse Aide. The ODH website provides a searchable database of approved programs. Common providers in Ohio include:

• Career-Technical Centers (Vocational Schools): Many joint vocational school districts (JVSDs) and career centers across Ohio offer excellent, ODH-approved STNA programs.
• Community Colleges: Several Ohio community colleges offer affordable, ODH-approved STNA training, sometimes as a prerequisite or component of other health career pathways.
• Private Postsecondary Career Schools: Numerous private career colleges and technical institutes in Ohio offer STNA training. Ensure they are ODH-approved and registered with the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools if applicable.
• Nursing Homes (Long-Term Care Facilities): Some nursing homes offer their own ODH-approved NATCEPs. Federal law prohibits approved nursing facilities from charging for training they provide to individuals who will be employed by that facility or have an offer of employment.
• Hospitals & Other Healthcare Entities: Occasionally, hospitals or other organizations may offer ODH-approved training programs.
• American Red Cross: Some Red Cross chapters in Ohio may offer ODH-approved STNA training.

When selecting a program in Ohio, consider:

• ODH Approval: This is mandatory. Verify the program's approval status on the ODH website.
• Cost & Financial Aid: Inquire about tuition, fees (for books, uniform, background check, state exam), and any available financial aid (WIOA grants via OhioMeansJobs centers, scholarships, payment plans).
• Schedule & Duration: Programs vary from intensive full-time (e.g., 2-4 weeks for a 75-hour program) to part-time evening/weekend options (several weeks longer).
• Location & Clinical Training Sites: Factor in commute times.
• State Exam Pass Rates: Ask the program about their graduates' success on the D&S Headmaster STNA exam.
• Job Placement Assistance: Some programs may offer support in finding employment.

You can search for ODH-approved NATCEPs via the ODH Provider Search portal (select "Nurse Aide Training Program" under provider type) or by reviewing lists provided on the ODH NATCEP website.

7. What to Expect from Your Ohio STNA Program Structure & Duration

All Ohio Department of Health (ODH)-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Programs (NATCEPs) must provide a minimum of 75 clock hours of instruction and training. This is structured as:

• Classroom Instruction and Skills Laboratory Practice (minimum 59 clock hours): This component covers essential theoretical knowledge and provides hands-on practice of nursing assistant skills in a simulated environment. Topics typically include:
  • Introduction to healthcare, role and responsibilities of an STNA, ethics, and resident rights.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Infection prevention and control.
  • Safety, emergency procedures, and basic life support (CPR is often integrated or a co-requisite).
  • Basic anatomy, physiology, and body mechanics.
  • Personal care skills (bathing, dressing, grooming, hygiene).
  • Nutrition, hydration, and elimination needs.
  • Measuring vital signs and promoting resident comfort.
  • Care for residents with cognitive impairments (e.g., Alzheimer's disease and related dementias).
  • Basic restorative services and promoting resident independence.
  A portion of this classroom instruction (typically the first 16 hours covering safety and residents' rights) must be completed before students can have any direct contact with residents.
• Supervised Clinical Experience (minimum 16 clock hours): This practical training must take place in an ODH-approved long-term care facility (nursing home). Students provide direct care to residents under the close supervision of a qualified licensed nurse instructor (Program Coordinator or Primary Instructor), applying the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom and lab.

Program Duration (for a 75-hour program):

• Full-Time Programs: Can often be completed in as little as 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the daily schedule.
• Part-Time Programs (Evenings/Weekends): May take 4 to 8 weeks or longer to complete.

All approved programs are designed to prepare students thoroughly for the Ohio STNA Competency Exam and for safe, effective practice.

8. The Ohio STNA Competency Exam (D&S Headmaster): What You Need to Know

After successfully completing an ODH-approved NATCEP, you must pass the Ohio State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) competency examination to be placed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. This exam is administered by D&S Diversified Technologies LLP (also known as Headmaster or HDMaster). The exam consists of two parts, both of which must be passed:

1. Skills Test

• You will be required to perform five randomly selected Nurse Aide skills.
• One of the skills will always be Hand Hygiene. The other four skills are randomly selected from the official Ohio STNA skills list (e.g., taking a blood pressure, assisting with a bedpan, providing catheter care, ambulation with a gait belt).
• A Nurse Aide Test Observer will evaluate your performance based on critical steps for each skill. You must perform all critical steps correctly to pass a skill.
• You will have a specific time limit (usually around 30-35 minutes, refer to the D&S Headmaster Ohio Candidate Handbook) to complete all five skills.

2. Knowledge Test (Written or Oral)

• Consists of 79 multiple-choice questions (confirm this number with the current Ohio Candidate Handbook from D&S Headmaster).
• Tests your knowledge on topics covered in your STNA training program, such as resident safety, infection control, resident rights, communication, and basic nursing skills.
• You will have 90 minutes to complete this examination.
• An oral version of the exam (questions read aloud via headphones) is available in English if requested in advance during exam registration.

Attempts & Retakes: You are allowed up to three attempts to pass both parts of the examination within 24 months (two years) of completing your training program (or from your eligibility date for other routes). If you fail one part, you only need to retake that part. If you do not pass both parts within the three attempts or the two-year timeframe, you must successfully complete another ODH-approved 75-hour NATCEP.

On Exam Day: Arrive on time. You MUST bring two forms of current, valid (not expired), signature-bearing identification. One ID must be a government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport) and the second ID must also be signed. Your name on your IDs must exactly match the name used for exam registration. Wear appropriate attire (flat, non-skid, closed-toe shoes; scrubs are often recommended/required) and a watch with a second hand.

Always refer to the latest Ohio Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook from D&S Headmaster (TMU for Ohio) for the most current exam policies, skill lists, fees, ID requirements, and testing site information.

9. Getting Certified & Listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry

Initial Registry Placement

Once you successfully pass both the Skills Test and the Knowledge Test administered by D&S Headmaster, your results will be transmitted to the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). If you have met all requirements, the ODH will place your name on the official Ohio Nurse Aide Registry with an "active" status. This makes you a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA). No separate physical certificate is typically mailed by ODH; your active status on the online registry serves as proof of certification. Employers are required by law to verify your active status on this registry before hiring you as an STNA. You can check your status online via the ODH Nurse Aide Registry search portal.

Maintaining Your Active Status on the Registry: Renewal

Your active status on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry is valid for 24 months (two years) from the date of your last recorded qualifying employment or initial placement.

• Work Requirement: To renew your active status (i.e., remain on the registry without having to retest), you must have worked for monetary compensation as a nurse aide, providing nursing or nursing-related services, for at least eight (8) hours under the supervision of a licensed nurse within your most recent 24-month registry period. This work must be verifiable.
• No State-Mandated CEUs for Registry Renewal: The Ohio Department of Health does not currently require specific Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for STNA registry renewal itself. However, federal regulations require nursing facilities to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education annually to their STNAs. So, if you are employed in such a facility, you will receive this ongoing training.
• Renewal Process: There isn't a formal "renewal application" you submit to ODH. Your registry status is maintained by your employer verifying your qualifying work. If you change jobs or are concerned about your status, you or your employer can submit a "Nurse Aide Employment Verification" form (available from the ODH website) to ensure your work is documented with the registry.

If you do not meet the work requirement within a 24-month period, your status on the registry will become "inactive" or "expired." To reactivate an expired Ohio STNA registration, you will generally need to re-apply for and pass both parts of the D&S Headmaster competency exam again. If your registration has been expired for more than 24 months, you may be required to complete a new ODH-approved NATCEP.

Out-of-State Nurse Aides: Reciprocity

If you are a Nurse Aide certified in another state and your certification is active and in good standing (no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property), you can apply for placement on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry through "reciprocity." You'll need to complete the "Application for Enrollment on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry by Reciprocity" (HEA 0137) and submit it to the ODH with required documentation, including verification from your original state of certification. If your credentials meet Ohio's standards, you may be granted active status on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry without retaking the exam. Background checks for employment will still apply.

10. Real Stories: STNA Journeys in Ohio

Maria's Start in Cleveland

Maria, from a suburb of Cleveland, decided to become an STNA to enter the healthcare field quickly after high school. She enrolled in an ODH-approved program at a local career-technical center. She found the clinical experience at a nearby nursing home very insightful. After passing her D&S Headmaster exams, Maria was hired by a large hospital system in Cuyahoga County. "The training was thorough, and my instructors were so helpful in preparing for the skills test," she shares.

David's Career Change in Columbus

David, after working in logistics for several years in Columbus, sought a more person-centered career. He attended a part-time evening STNA program offered by a community college. "The flexible schedule allowed me to keep working," David says. He now works at a long-term care facility in Franklin County and enjoys the daily interactions with residents and the sense of making a difference.

Sarah's Opportunity in Rural Southeast Ohio

Sarah, from a small town in Appalachian Ohio, found an STNA program offered by a local nursing home that was ODH-approved. The training was provided at no cost with an agreement to work there post-certification. "It was a fantastic opportunity for me to get trained and have a job waiting," she notes. She values the strong community ties at her workplace and appreciates the stability of her STNA role.

11. A Day in the Life of an Ohio STNA

A typical day for an STNA in Ohio, whether in a bustling Cincinnati hospital or a nursing home in a smaller Ohio town, is centered on providing compassionate and skilled direct care:

• Beginning of Shift:
  • Clock in, receive report from the previous shift regarding resident/patient assignments, current conditions, and specific care instructions or changes.
  • Gather necessary supplies and make initial rounds to greet residents/patients and assess immediate needs.
• Morning/Daytime Routine:
  • Assist residents/patients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, oral hygiene, grooming, and toileting, always promoting dignity and independence as much as possible.
  • Serve meal trays, assist with feeding if needed, encourage fluid intake, and accurately record intake and output.
  • Take and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure) as scheduled or indicated by the care plan.
  • Change bed linens, maintain room tidiness, ensure call lights are within reach, and implement safety measures.
  • Assist with mobility: ambulation (walking), transfers (e.g., bed to chair, using a gait belt), range-of-motion exercises, and frequent repositioning to prevent skin breakdown.
• Throughout the Shift:
  • Respond promptly and courteously to call lights and resident/patient requests.
  • Carefully observe residents/patients for any changes in condition (physical, mental, emotional) and report these immediately to the licensed nurse.
  • Provide emotional support, active listening, and engage in appropriate social interaction.
  • Accurately document all care provided, observations, and any incidents according to facility policy and state regulations.
  • Adhere strictly to infection control protocols (e.g., proper handwashing, use of Personal Protective Equipment - PPE).
• End of Shift:
  • Ensure residents/patients are comfortable, safe, and their immediate needs are addressed before the next shift.
  • Complete all charting thoroughly and accurately.
  • Provide a comprehensive, factual report to the oncoming STNA/shift.

Ohio STNAs are vital members of the healthcare team, requiring dedication, keen observational skills, and a strong commitment to resident-centered care.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Aspiring Ohio STNAs

Are criminal background checks mandatory to become an STNA in Ohio?

While the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) itself may not conduct the background check for initial registry placement post-exam, Ohio law requires individuals working in direct care positions—including State Tested Nurse Aides (STNAs)—to undergo criminal records checks (BCI&I and sometimes FBI). Employers or training programs typically initiate these checks before hiring or clinical placements. Certain convictions are disqualifying offenses for employment.

Are Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required to renew my Ohio STNA registration?

No, the ODH does not currently mandate specific CEUs for STNA registry renewal. Renewal depends on meeting the work requirement—at least 8 hours of paid work as a nurse aide in a 24-month period. However, nursing facilities are federally required to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education annually to their STNAs.

Can I work as an STNA in Ohio while waiting for my exam results?

After completing an ODH-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), you may work up to 120 days as a “nurse aide trainee” in a nursing facility while pursuing certification by taking the exam. You cannot work as a State Tested Nurse Aide until you pass the exam and are listed as active on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. Verify specifics with ODH and your employer.

What if my Ohio STNA registration expires (becomes inactive)?

If your registration becomes inactive because you didn’t meet the work requirement, you cannot work as an STNA. To reactivate, you must reapply and pass both parts of the D&S Headmaster competency exam again. Registrations expired over 24 months may require completing a new ODH-approved NATCEP.

How do I transfer my out-of-state CNA certification to Ohio (reciprocity)?

Apply for reciprocity with the Ohio Department of Health by submitting the “Application for Enrollment on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry by Reciprocity” (HEA 0137). Provide verification of your active, good-standing out-of-state certification. If your credentials meet Ohio’s standards, you may be added to the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry without re-testing. Employment will still require Ohio background checks.

13. Tips for Success in Your STNA Training and Career in OH

• Master the D&S Headmaster Skills: Ohio's skill evaluation is precise. Practice every skill according to the official D&S Headmaster Ohio skills checklist, focusing on all critical steps.
• Understand Background Check Importance: Be aware that background checks are crucial for clinical placement and employment. Address any potential issues proactively if possible.
• Perfect Attendance in Training: ODH-approved programs have strict attendance policies for the required 75 hours. Be present and engaged.
• Study for the Knowledge Test: Use practice questions, review your training materials thoroughly, and understand core concepts like resident rights, safety, and infection control.
• Maintain Professionalism: Punctuality, appropriate attire (especially non-skid shoes), respectful communication, and a positive attitude are vital.
• Ensure Employment Verification for Registry: If you change jobs or work for an agency, make sure your qualifying work hours are reported or verifiable to ODH to maintain active status.
• Stay Informed: Periodically check the ODH and D&S Headmaster (Ohio) websites for any updates to regulations or procedures.

14. Advancing Your Career: Paths Beyond STNA in Ohio

Your Ohio STNA certification is an excellent starting point. Many STNAs in Ohio advance to other roles:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): A very common next step. LPN programs in Ohio typically take 12-18 months. The Ohio Board of Nursing regulates LPNs.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an Ohio Board of Nursing-approved program.
• Specialized Roles: With additional training, STNAs can specialize as Restorative Aides, Hospice Aides, or work in specific units like dementia care or rehabilitation.
• Medication Aide (Certified): Ohio has a separate certification for Medication Aides in certain settings (like nursing homes), requiring additional ODH-approved training and passing a state exam. Being an STNA is often a prerequisite.
• Healthcare Administration or Education: With experience and further degrees, STNAs can move into management, staff development, or become NATCEP instructors (requires LPN/RN licensure and specific ODH qualifications).

Many Ohio healthcare employers, especially larger hospital systems, offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for employees pursuing further education.

15. STNA Training Costs & Financial Aid in Ohio

The cost of STNA training (NATCEP) in Ohio can vary:

Program Type	Typical Tuition Range (OH)	Additional Fees (Background Checks, Books, Uniform, Exam, etc. Estimate)	Common Financial Aid Options
Career-Technical Center (Vocational School)	$600 – $1,200	$150 – $300	OhioMeansJobs WIOA funding, local grants, school payment plans.
Ohio Community College	$700 – $1,500	$200 – $400	Pell Grants (if eligible), Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG), WIOA, scholarships.
Private Career School	$800 – $1,800+	$200 – $450	School payment plans, WIOA, some scholarships.
Facility-Based (Nursing Home) Training	Often Free (if offered by an approved nursing facility to prospective employees, by federal law)	Minimal or covered	Employer-sponsored.

Key Ohio Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Tips:

• FAFSA: Complete for federal Pell Grants if attending an eligible college program.
• Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG): For eligible Ohio residents attending approved Ohio colleges.
• OhioMeansJobs Centers: Contact your local OhioMeansJobs center for information on WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) training grants and other support services.
• Employer-Sponsored Training: Inquire with local nursing facilities about free NATCEPs for prospective employees. Federal law dictates that if a nursing home offers the training and you go to work for them (or have an offer), they cannot charge you for any portion of that training. If you are already employed by the facility when you start the training, they must pay you for the training time.
• Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD): May provide funding for eligible individuals.

Always get a detailed breakdown of ALL costs before enrolling: tuition, background check fees (BCI&I/FBI), textbook, uniform, equipment, physical exam/TB test, CPR certification (if required separately), and the D&S Headmaster exam fee.

Conclusion: Start Your STNA Journey in Ohio Today!

Becoming a State Tested Nurse Aide in Ohio is a significant and rewarding step towards a career in healthcare. The Buckeye State offers numerous opportunities for dedicated individuals committed to providing quality, compassionate care. By understanding Ohio's specific requirements, choosing a quality ODH-approved training program, successfully navigating the background check process and the D&S Headmaster competency exam, and committing to professional conduct, you will be well-equipped for a successful and fulfilling career.

Your journey to making a difference begins with your initiative. Use the resources in this guide to research programs in your area and take that important first step.

Visit the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) NATCEP website and the D&S Headmaster (TMU for Ohio) page for official program information, forms, exam details, and to embark on your path. A vital role in Ohio's healthcare system awaits you!

References & Further Reading (Ohio)

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Nursing Assistants and Orderlies" — www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nursing-assistants.htm
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, "May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Ohio - 31-1131 Nursing Assistants" — www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_oh.htm#31-1131
3. Ohio Department of Health (ODH) - Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) — odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/nurse-aide-training-and-competency-evaluation-program-natcep/nurse-aide-training-competency-evaluation-program
4. ODH - Nurse Aide Registry Search & Information — (Search for "Ohio Nurse Aide Registry" on the ODH website or use specific portal links, e.g., for verification or reciprocity forms like HEA 0137).
5. D&S Diversified Technologies LLP / Headmaster (TMU for Ohio) - Ohio Nurse Aide Competency Examination Program — oh.tmuniverse.com/ (Access Candidate Handbook/Bulletin here)
6. OhioMeansJobs (for WIOA and job/training resources) — ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov/
7. Ohio Attorney General - Background Checks (BCI&I) — www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Business/Services-for-Business/WebCheck