Online/Distance Learning Nurse Assistant Training Program (NATP)
eLearning Review Unit 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use my approved, classroom-based NATP to conduct teaching in a distance-learning format during the COVID-19 declared state of emergency?

Please contact TPRU for approved, classroom-based NATP questions. For more information, please see the TPRU webpage. All NATP COVID related flexing authority will end on February 28, 2023.

If my program was granted a waiver to teach online during COVID-19, can I use the same setup to apply to ELRU for a permanent online NATP? 

You may apply but because your program was not setup with eLearning requirements in mind it is unlikely that your current program will be approved without making substantial alternations to meet the requirements. 

Is ELRU part of TPRU?

No. The eLearning Review Unit was established within the Aide and Technician Certification Section, separate from the Training Program Review Unit, to process Online Nurse Assistant Training Program applications. For more information, please see the TPRU webpage.

How can I contact ELRU?

Preferably, and for faster service, contact the eLearning Review unit via email at eLearning@cdph.ca.gov or alternatively call (916) 552-9967.

If I have an existing, classroom-based NATP that is approved by TPRU, can I use this program to apply for an online NATP application?

No, ELRU and TRPU are different units and have different requirements. You may have both an online and a classroom-based NATP, with each having their specific Provider Identification Training Number (PITN). You may not combine the two NATPs. 

Do I need to have an approved, classroom-based NATP before applying for an online NATP?

No, a classroom-based NATP in not necessary in order to apply for an online NATP. 

Can I use TPRU application forms and submit these to ELRU?

No. There are requirements that are specific to ELRU which are not found in the TPRU forms. Please use ELRU forms from this website subdomain. 

We are approved for both online and classroom based NATPs, can we share our staff to do both?

No, the programs were approved with specific staff for each specific program, the staff must be approved for each program prior to any sharing. 

What are the components to a complete application packet?

To ensure faster processing time, please complete all information needed in the ELRU forms and submit all forms and documents and access to online learning management system to the Unit email address at eLearning@cdph.ca.gov. 

What kinds of online/distance-learning platforms can I use?

Any teaching method that complies with the Department requirements is acceptable. However, a NATP can only be either synchronous or asynchronous.

What is the difference between synchronous vs asynchronous online programs?

Synchronous classes are live where students and instructors interact in a specific virtual place at a set time. Instructors commonly take attendance as they would in a lecture hall. These classes are conducted via a video conference or live-streamed lecture.

Asynchronous classes are self-paced, have specific deadlines, and are closely monitored by the NATP instructor. Students must regularly interact with the instructor to be evaluated on their understanding of each module. These classes are conducted via narrated lecture slides and/or software that uses both audio and visual means to teach.

Both synchronous and asynchronous programs must evaluate the student's understanding of the NATP content. For asynchronous instruction, each course module must provide an exam (and the student must pass the exam) prior to allowing the student to proceed to another module. 

What is a Learning Management System (LMS) and what must it contain?

The LMS is the central location/platform where the teaching material (slides, videos, etc.), exams, quizzes, and individual and cohort level statistics and data are located and where instruction is tracked and conducted either internally or via a link to a videoconferencing platform. Where Students, teachers, administrators and CDPH login to learn, teach, track, or check for compliance based on their respective privileges. A LMS must meet the requirements listed in AFL 20-89.1.

For Online NATP application, what should a Crosswalk look like? 

The crosswalk can be constructed in a number of ways but must show how the proposed curriculum is meeting the requirements of the 17 modules listing them by each associated subtopic. It must clearly show how overall NATP theory content and time requirements are met at the subtopic level as well as a grand total. The crosswalk must list each module and subtopic in one column (verbatim), then list what material is used to meet the requirement per subtopic in another column and total time per subtopic in another column. Below are examples of possible crosswalks for two variations of synchronous and asynchronous programs in an abbreviated form for module 1 only.

Synchronous program using slides and book for lecture:

Asynchronous program using videos:

Can a Program Director or Director of Nursing teach an online NATP?

A Director of Nursing may not teach the program. A Program Director (RNPD) may substitute for an instructor or cover sick calls on occasion if they meet Instructor qualifications (see CDPH E279). If a Program director of an educational institution wants to teach the full course, the program must ensure compliance with 22 CCR §71828(b)(3) by having another RNPD qualified individual monitor the classes that the program director teaches. 

An online NATP program director is responsible for the entirety of the NATP. In facilities this title is "Director of nursing"(DON) and in educational institutions the title is "Registered nurse Program Director"(RNPD) or "Program Director"

The requirements for a program director are as follows:

• Position of a California Registered Nurse License.
• Two years of experience as a Registered Nurse
  
• Of the two years, one year of experience must be in provision of care and services in Long Term Care facilities.

The qualification requirements for Directors of Staff Development (DSD) and Instructors are not interchangeable with Program Directors (DONs and RNPDs) as DSDs/instructors do not carry the same responsibility as RNPDs/DONs. Therefore, it is not necessary to submit a CDPH E279 as this from is for DSD/Instructors only nor are the qualifications in this form used to evaluate RNPD/DON qualifications. 

When hiring for an online NATP, do I need to submit a new application for previously approved instructors/DSD?

Yes, all instructors/DSD, whether new or approved, who will be teaching in an online NATP need to have a CDPH E279 application form and supplemental information submitted by the NATP even If the individual was previously approved. 

What are the requirements to take the state CNA exam after completion of an online nurse assistant training program?

For guidance and instruction on taking the CNA certification exam after completion of a program, please visit the Registry Unit home page.

Do we need to have an agreement with a facility as a clinical site? 

Yes, if your program is not facility based, a clinical site agreement is mandatory for program approval. Please submit a completed CDPH E276E (Online NATP Clinical Site Agreement) for each facility associated with the online NATP.

Is there a limit to the number of students in a class? 

There is no limit to the number of students in a theory class, however, clinical class sizes are restricted to 15 students per 1 instructor.

What are the DSD or instructor educational, licensure and work experience requirements?

Please see the specific DSD/instructor requirements in form CDPH E279 (PDF)

Education:

Depending on the work experience, the candidate may be required to show proof of 24 hours of BRN approved or accredited continuing education in planning, implementing and evaluation educational programs in nursing within 6 months of application and prior to teaching in the NATP.

California Licensure Requirement:

All Instructor and DSD applicants must have an active, licensed vocational nurse (LVN) or registered nurse (RN) License with the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Work Experience:

Only work experience in the following areas are acceptable. Direct patient care and services provided in a  nursing capacity to the chronically ill or the elderly in acute care hospitals (GACH), skilled nursing facilities (SNF) select intermediate care facilities (ICF), home health settings, and hospice care settings. These experiences do not have to be accrued in California but must be in the USA.

Please contact the eLearning Review Unit preferably by email at eLearning@cdph.ca.gov or call (916) 552-9967.

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