Talking to self during exam

Sure I don't think that it is a problem at all. In fact for the hand washing I was told, and encouraged to voice it so that the tester knew I understood and washed all the parts of my hands that I needed to, and it was harder for the tester to say I did not see you wash between your finger or your nails. I am washing the backs of my hands I am scrubbing my palms I am washing inbetween my fingers I am washing underneith my nails. I am rinsing my hands making sure I do not touch the sink or facet head. Extra.

Thanks alot! That makes me feel more comfortable :f:up:

Yeah, verbalizing the skills as you do them is helpful to both you and the instructor grading you for the state exam. I wouldn't question anything out loud ("Oh, do I do it this way, or this way?") because it doesn't show confidence and you might get marked down on it anyways, so simple steps to get yourself through a technique ("first I turn on the sink, then I...") will be more beneficial than an entire narrative of your self-doubt. Don't let them see you sweat!

Good luck!

Yes, I talked my way through every skill! I was being tested in a small room where another applicant was also being tested at the same time. The examiner was, of course, only human. I didn't want to take a chance on her missing me doing a critical step... or even several noncritical steps that could add up to a fail... when she was distracted by the other examinee... or examiner... or looking down to mark something or the gazillion other possibilities.

Plus, I found talking through the skill was calming and reassured me that I knew what I was doing. Last but not least, explaining a skill out loud is good practice for the real world. I find patients are reassured when I explain every step, including checking the bed locks and guaranteeing privacy.

Do what lets you perform well and best of luck to you!

Yes talk your way through the skill even on hand washing...it also distracts the Procter a little. Good luck!!