Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between motivation, as defined by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and the performance of Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) on the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Exam (INACE), with a focus on the impact of gender and motivation during the COVID-19 pandemic. CNAs must meet stringent certification standards, but recent declines in enrollment and increased demands on healthcare workers, exacerbated by the pandemic, necessitate a deeper exploration of factors influencing their success. This research employs a quantitative, non-experimental correlational design, analyzing data from 411 CNA students sampled from community colleges in Illinois. The study examines motivation across Maslow’s five levels—physiological needs, safety and security, belonging, esteem, and self-actualization—and its correlation with INACE performance. Findings revealed no significant correlations between motivation levels and overall INACE performance, nor between motivation and performance across the exam’s six key competency areas. Additionally, gender differences did not significantly impact performance outcomes. These results suggest that while motivation is a critical factor, other elements may be influencing CNA performance. The study highlights the need for further research to understand how disruptions caused by the pandemic may have altered motivational dynamics and academic results. Addressing these findings could lead to more effective strategies to support CNAs in achieving certification and improving training programs in response to evolving challenges in the healthcare field.