PVDS Test?

[kabrn05]

I have just set up my first travel assignment. They want me to pass a test that the hospital requires called a PVDS test. They said it is a test with scenarios they gave me an example: You walk into a patients room and you know they had a stroke what would you do?...If I don't pass this test my assignment will be cancelled. I'm a little nervous and was just wondering if anybody heard about this test.

I've only been an RN for about a year or when I start my assignment in April it will be a year. I was an EMT before nursing so I have a little background. I've decided to take a chance with travel nursing to get out a see the world a little bit. I'm 24 years old and me and my boyfriend are going to get married and travel together. I'm very excited and I hope it works out. I have a great recruiter.

I would appreciate any tips on this test if anybody has ever heard of it. I'm going to be working at Naples, Florida Hospital.

Thanks,

Kim

[caroladybelle, BSN, RN]

I believe that you mean PBDS (performance based development series).

Please use "search" and look up PBDS, there are several threads on this topic. Originally the test was to be used as an evaluation tool, it is now used to test competency of agency personnel.

I have never had trouble with it, but many do, as it requires a nurse to diagnose, which we are not supposed to be doing.

How much experience as an RN do you have? This is one of the many reasons that while you must have at least one year of experience, but that you really should have more.

[Julie Fureigh]

I took a test like that. They showed a video and I had to diagnosis, prioitize, and state what treatments would be appropriate. I've been a nurse 15 years. The first time I took it I didn't pass. All the new nurses aced it. I took a review course and understood how they wanted me to convey my knowledge and skills. The second time I took it I was told that I made the highest score they had seen. My point is - hopefully they will review so you will know how to answer according to how they want nurses to practice at that hospital. That was at St. Vincent's Hospital. Good Luck.

[kabrn05]

I only have a year experience as an RN but I was an EMT before getting my RN. I did very well on my NCLEX a year ago I don't know if it is anything like that. I know I should have more experience before starting to travel but I'm willing to put in the time to make traveling work. I will try to find out as much information as I can about the test and maybe review some information if possible. If I don't make it through I can always find another assignment at a hospital who doesn't require me to take the test but this hospital is giving me a really good deal on money. I'm going to give it a shot. It will be good experience.

Thanks for your help

Kim

I believe that you mean PBDS (performance based development series).

Please use "search" and look up PBDS, there are several threads on this topic. Originally the test was to be used as an evaluation tool, it is now used to test competency of agency personnel.

I have never had trouble with it, but many do, as it requires a nurse to diagnose, which we are not supposed to be doing.

How much experience as an RN do you have? This is one of the many reasons that while you must have at least one year of experience, but that you really should have more.

[leamom2]

I had to take a PBDS test for my first nursing job out of LPN school this past July. It was difficult but I had no clinical background other than school. There were scenarios where they give you some info and ask you to type what your actions would be. Just think through the pt history and symptoms and what you would suspect and what you would tell Dr. and ask for. this will help you. I think I probably over explained my reasoning but I did pass it on the first attempt. Some of my friends had to take it twice. They are looking for knowlegde of priority, procedure, and critical thinking. It is all type in no multiple choice. I was told it was graded by an actual nursing instructor. Just play off your experience and explain what you are thinking and it will go fine. Good Luck!

[kabrn05]

Thanks so much. I am doing some research on the test and I will spend the beginning of next week doing a little reviewing and go in there calm and confident. All I can do is do my best but I know getting nervous won't do anything for me. I hope it goes well. Thanks again.

I had to take a PBDS test for my first nursing job out of LPN school this past July. It was difficult but I had no clinical background other than school. There were scenarios where they give you some info and ask you to type what your actions would be. Just think through the pt history and symptoms and what you would suspect and what you would tell Dr. and ask for. this will help you. I think I probably over explained my reasoning but I did pass it on the first attempt. Some of my friends had to take it twice. They are looking for knowlegde of priority, procedure, and critical thinking. It is all type in no multiple choice. I was told it was graded by an actual nursing instructor. Just play off your experience and explain what you are thinking and it will go fine. Good Luck!