Nursing assistants are required to pass examinations.
Nursing assistants who will take certification examinations should take time to prepare. Test requirements vary by state, but the examination is typically divided into two parts. Successful completion of both examinations assures employers that candidates have met state and federal requirements for nursing assistants, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NSCBN).
Written Exam
Written examinations are typically multiple choice. They cover patient hygiene, dressing, grooming, nutrition, hydration, elimination processes, rest and comfort. Basic knowledge includes vocabulary, infection control procedures, patient safety, emergencies and collection of data. Assisting nurses with procedures, skin care, room cleanliness and restorative skills are additional topics of study, according to the NSCBN.
Skills Exam
The skills portion of the examination tests your ability to perform what you have learned in a clinical setting. Some states, such as Oregon, will provide any necessary equipment and the candidate will be asked to perform five skills of her choosing. Clinical skills include patient ambulation, bedpan assistance, meal assistance, nail care and making beds. Taking blood pressure, temperature, pulse and respiration (vital signs), range of motion, patient positioning, hand washing and collecting specimens are also essential areas of nurse aide study.
Pre-Employment
Some employers, such as Louisiana State University Medical Center, require nursing assistants to pass pre-employment testing. The test consists of written and skills tests in addition to a math test. The math portion includes questions about measurement systems such as household, apothecary and metric.
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