Ever taken a CTT as part of job interview/orientation?

[curioussojourner]

Recently interviewing form a new critical care position. My consultant was reading available positions to me over the phone and saw where one of the facilities requires the RN pass a "CTT" (critical thinking test). It is the first time I ever heard of this. We do pharmacology exams, critical care skills exams, ACLS scenarios, math-for RNs exams and dysrhythmia exams as part of orientation but this was a first. Anyone know what this is?...ever particpate in this?...can you give examples of this?

Thanks CS

[nrsang97, BSN, RN]

Are you talking about the PBDS test? I had to take it. Not bad, but you have to be everyone and spell out EVERYTHING you would do for the pt. I was dinged for not spelling out that I would maintain airway with a increased ICP pt.

[curioussojourner]

what is a PBDS test? What does it stand for? Did you do it as part of hiring process? When you "dinged," did that mean you failed?...were not hired?...can you look up somewhere to help you prepare for or study for this?

Thanks:bow:

[nrsang97, BSN, RN]

This is called the Performance Based Development System. It isn't pass/fail. We don't use it anymore. But it is used to guide new grads in orientation. Shows what your strengths and weakness are. Google PBDS and you will find info on it. There have been many threads on here about this test as well.

When I transferred to my new unit (same system) I had to take the test. I was moving from a medical unit to ICU. So I took the med surg version. There were questions on a stroke, increased ICP, dig toxicity, pneumothorax, blood transfusion reaction.

You will do just fine if you are a experienced nurse.

[busycletamarie]

I was required to take a "critical thinking test" before even being interviewed and it had nothing to do with nursing. I wish I could find practice tests somewhere so I would be prepared for the next one. Not all institutions use them, the next interview at a large hospital didn't require it at all. I really don't understand why each is different.