The certified nursing assistant, or CNA, is an important part of a health care team. Those who decide to become a certified nursing assistant will end up doing the majority of the non-medical care that patients need while they are in the hospital or the nursing home. In order to be able to take on a position in this field of work, an individual needs to go through a certification process that provides them with the knowledge that they need for the job. The course ends with an exam that gives them CNA certification, allowing them to work a job in the field.
The CNA certification exam is split into two different sections. The first section is a written exam. It goes over all of the skills and responsibilities that a certified nursing assistant must be aware of in order to do their job. In most cases, these questions will be in regards to what the best way is to complete a specific task, as well as questions about what is right and wrong, and what a CNA is legally allowed to do.
The second part of the exam is based not on written answers, but on performance. A CNA must be able to demonstrate the ability to properly perform twenty-five skills. At a minimum, the performance exam requires the student to demonstrate five of these skills. Some of the most common skills tested for are the ability to remember to wash hands before and after touching a patient, and taking measurements like pulse, blood pressure, and temperature. Other skills tested for include the ability to properly dress a patient, using protective equipment like gloves and masks, and the communication skills of the student.
If the student ends up failing either section of the exam, they will have the opportunity to take the test again. In most cases, they will be able to take the test over three times before they are required to go through the course once again. Once the student has passed both of the tests, they will then receive CNA certification from the state.
The requirements in order to receive a certification will vary depending on which state the student resides in. This is because of the fact that each state has its own medical board. If a student already has a certification from a different state, they might have the option of taking the test without needing to take the course.
Recommended books
CNA Exam Practice Questions: CNA Practice Tests & Review for the Certified Nurse Assistant Exam- CNA Exam Secrets Study Guide: CNA Test Review for the Certified Nurse Assistant Exam
- The Cna/Cne Study Guide: Intranetware Edition (Certification Series)
- All-In-One Novell 5 Cna/Cne Exam Guide (All-in-One Certification)
- Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide Exam