If you’ve spend any time researching the requirements to become a certified nursing assistant in your state (see www.cnacertificationscoop.com for more info), then you’re likely aware training consists of theoretical classroom study and hands-on clinical application. While this is a standard training model, the CNA examination takes on a similar outline. Although each state regulates exam specifics, the majority of CNA examinations requires test-takers to undergo a clinical test to showcase their ability to perform certain procedures.
The Clinical Exam – Its Purpose
The primary function of the clinical exam portion is to evaluate your hands-on skills regarding patient care. While theoretical training is essential to learn how to perform the varied duties you’ll be presented throughout your work days, clinical training marries your textbook knowledge with physical training. Although every state CNA exam may feature different clinical tasks, the Certified Nursing Assistant Candidate Handbook published by your state’s board of nursing offers detailed information and study tips for this exam unit. Use this handbook as your primary study guide to prepare for clinical testing.
What to Expect
While difficult to explain in complete detail what you can expect during the clinical exam, most candidate handbooks require test-takers to undergo a minimum of five assigned CNA tasks. Each of these tasks uses the following formula:
1.) The Nursing Aide Evaluator reads a specific scenario. After the scenario is read, it’s your time to shine.
2.) With the help of a volunteer “patient,” typically another exam taker, you’re required to finish the task set forth during the examination.
3.) Communicate with the “patient” as you would in real life. Keep conversation light and use your knowledge learned through training to complete each task set forth by the five scenarios to the best of your ability. If you believe that you did a task incorrectly, immediately inform the Evaluator what parts of the task you’d wish to repeat as you feel you made a mistake. While this may lower your score, repeating a task correctly prevents a complete negative mark on your score sheet. Remember, the Evaluator may not answer any questions, but she may re-read the scenario to provide further clarification.
What Tasks Must I Do?
While a complete answer to this question would simplify your study time, it’s impossible to say exactly what tasks are involved within the clinical exam. This being noted, there are several general the exam portions all states follow. Typically, you’ll be required to perform some form of measurement skill, such as checking patient weight, blood pressure or urine output. Also, make sure you wash your hands by lathering your entire hand and lower forearm with soap and scrubbing for a minimum of 20-seconds. Never forget to perform this action before each new task. As stated above, it’s impossible to clearly outline the entire clinical exam; however, your state’s candidate handbook will offer general topics and study references to aid in this somewhat complex exam unit.