A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an integral part of a medical team. In order to become a CNA, an individual must complete a state-approved educational and training program and then pass a CNA certification test and evaluation, to be placed on a state’s Nurses Aide Registry. Training programs are offered through vocational-technical schools, some community colleges, and high schools. When considering becoming a CNA, one should assess whether they are interested in providing physically demanding, hands-on, routine care as part of a medical team.
A nursing assistant will find opportunities in long-term care nursing facilities as well as hospitals. A CNA will perform many of the caretaking duties, such as feeding, bathing, and changing of patients. They perform these tasks under the supervision of nursing and physician staff members.
The CNA certification test is comprised of written and skill exams and are administered on the same day. The questions are in English and are multiple choice format with an average of 70 questions. The percentage correct needed to qualify as passing the exam varies based on state regulations and you are advised to reference your particular state’s requirements.
The skills portion of the exam consists of demonstrating five skills necessary to perform the duties of a CNA. This normally will take up to 30 minutes to complete and are based on skills taught in your training program. Some of the actions requested may include, taking a patient’s blood pressure, washing hands, mouth care, dressing a patient, and feeding. This is not an exhaustive list of possible duties.
A student will have more than one opportunity to pass both portions of the CNA certification test. If the individual failed both the written and skills portion, he or she will be required to retake both. If only one section was failed, only that section needs to be retaken.
A CNA has the opportunity to provide essential daily care in the lives of their patients and create a relationship with them. The training and education required will greatly assist in preparing for your state’s exam.
No related posts.