Which act requires a training and competency evaluation program for nursing assistants?

The correct answer is the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA). This act, passed in 1987, established comprehensive regulations concerning the quality of care in nursing facilities and included provisions that specifically mandated a training and competency evaluation program for nursing assistants. The goal was to ensure that nursing assistants had the essential skills and knowledge necessary to provide safe and effective care to residents.

OBRA set forth the standards for both the training programs and the testing required for nursing assistants, ensuring consistent and high-quality training across facilities. By establishing these requirements, OBRA plays a crucial role in maintaining quality care in long-term care settings, ensuring that nursing assistants are adequately prepared for their responsibilities.

The other options, such as Medicare and Medicaid, are primarily focused on healthcare coverage and funding for services rather than setting specific training requirements for nursing staff. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) primarily serves as a resource for regulatory agencies and does not create legislation for training programs. Therefore, OBRA stands out as the act that directly addresses the need for a training and competency evaluation program for nursing assistants.