What skills should I learn for my CNA certification test?
The CNA certification process is one that thousands of people go through each year in order to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. This position is one of many in the rapidly growing health care industry and is considered to be the stepping stone to other prosperous health related medical careers including the RN, LPN, and doctor professions. In order to complete the CNA certification process and pass the licensing exam, one must be able to perform a number of different skills.
Why Such A Large Demand For CNAs?
The demand for CNAs is on the rise because of the fact that there is a rapidly growing elderly population that needs to be cared for. As people grow older the need for health care services increases, which is where certified nursing assistants and other health care professionals come in. Certified nursing assistants learn many different skills that can be used to help provide care and comfort to patients during their stay.
CNAs are also in high demand because of the fact that it is somewhat of a tough role to take on. Many find dealing with the stress and physical strain that often result during daily CNA activities difficult and quickly move on to other health care related professions. This means that there is a constant demand for new individuals to fill vacant CNA positions.
The CNA Certification Process
Individuals looking to become a CNA must go through the CNA certification exam process which typically involves a set number of training/studying hours and a final exam. During the process students learn a number of skills that help them perform their duties as a certified nursing assistant safely, efficiently, and effectively. While the requirements may vary from state to state, individuals going through the certification process can expect to complete roughly 75 hours of training/studying, and take a two-part exam that includes a knowledge portion as well as a skills portion.
Certification Skills
There are many different skills that students must perform successfully in order to become a certified nursing assistant. Here are some of the skills that the CNA certification process will most likely focus on:
Feeding
Students will learn a number of different techniques during the certification process in order to make sure patients are getting enough to eat. Some patients might only require some assistance with certain feeding activities while others simply will not be able to feed themselves and will require 100% assistance.
Bathing
Bathing is another skill that you will most likely see on the CNA test. Bathing activities will vary based on patient needs. Some patients may require sponge baths in bed while others might only require limited assistance while taking a bath or shower.
Lifting
CNAs are often required to assist patients in getting in and out of bed. In order to help patients in and out of bed, CNAs must learn how to lift properly so that they don’t cause harm to their own bodies during the process. Lifting is one particular skill that is highly emphasized during the CNA certification process.
Reading and Recording Patient Vitals
CNAs also have to learn to read and record patient vitals in order to make sure that patients receive the proper care that they need and so that nurses and doctors can accurately diagnose and treat any medical issues that may be present. During the CNA certification process students will be required to show that they can accurately read and record patient blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and more.