CNA skills clinical

[LolaLo]

Today I was told that I wouldn't be passing the clinical portion of my CNA course due to not attaching the EZ lift sling properly. I had the same resident last week, used the lift and was never told by my instructor that it was incorrect. However, this was a skill that wasn't emphasized in the classroom portion and was taught as something you'd learn from experience. I guess my question is whether or not this is a required skill? and is this even one of the skills tested when applying for the registry?

thank you in advance!

[tk88]

We talked about it in class but never really studied it. When we did clinicals we used lifts but weren't allowed to use them alone. I definitely think your instructor should have taught you. You should be able to just retake the clinical skills part of your test.... good luck....

[PatMac10,RN, RN]

Also, in the NNAAP nursing aide book, it doesn't show EZ stand is on the skills list, but that's in Wisconsin. States may vary.

Isn't the state test to become a CNA-- the same all over? I mean it is the NATIONAL Nurse Aid exam. Or at least that's what the little blue study book (which lists all of the 23 skills they could possibly test you on when it comes to the certification exam). I became a CNA in July of 2010 and there no such skill about lifts and slings in that book. If you feel you've got a grip on the skills that you may be tested on, which should be outlined in that little blue book, then I would just challenge the test. I know that all states don't let you challenge the exam with having a certifcate of completion from a certified trainging class. Here in NC you can still challenge. Recently NC changed it to where if you had training from a non state certified training system that you could mark that as an option as well. I had to chalenge under the last said even though I went throught the class. My high school didn't get state certified my year becuase we only had curtains seperating our "mach" patient rooms when the state mandated that all certified teaching facilitiies have actaul walls. I passed the test, with no problem the first time. We only read about what lifts were for in class, but never even touched one at clinicals.

In NC there is a difference beteween a challenger with no trainging other than receiving and reviewing the test booklet and a challenger who went through training, though at an uncertified facility. I would hate for you to have to spend more $ than you had to becuase times are very hard for everyone and neither part of the CNA exam, at least here in NC, is cheap. Of course I always reccomend that someone who has never been a CNA or something similar or oif you still feel you are not quite up to par with the clinical aspect of CNA work not challenge the exam and go through a class so they can learn how to carry out all their responsibiities safely and accurately.

Hope everything works. I know things are different in different states and localities, but do some research at your state BON's website or talk to some local CNAs and nurses about extra help and advice.