Can a Nursing Student Take the CNA Exam?
Are you contemplating the question, “Can a nursing student take the CNA exam?”
Well, you’re in the right place. Here’s the answer.
Can a Nursing Student Take the CNA Exam?
Yes, if you’re a nursing student enrolled in a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN) program, you can indeed challenge the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) exam. However, this may vary depending on your state.
Eligibility Criteria for the Exam
Completion of Basic Nursing Fundamentals Course
Before you set your sights on the CNA exam, you need to complete the basic nursing fundamentals course.
Both the theoretical and practical elements of this course must be under your belt, and your official school transcripts are needed for verification.
Once you’ve ticked these boxes, you’re all set to sit for the nurse aide competency evaluation.
Understanding the CNA Exam
A Two-Part Examination
The CNA exam isn’t just a written or oral test; it also includes a hands-on skills examination.
Both sections of the exam are administered on the same day, and you need to successfully pass both to earn your certification and a spot on the Nurse Aide Registry.
The Written Exam
The number of questions on the written exam may vary from state to state, with most states requiring an average of 70 questions.
The written test questions use a multiple-choice format designed to evaluate your knowledge.
The Skills Examination
The CNA examination requires you to demonstrate competency in performing five hands-on skills.
These are selected randomly from a list of twenty-five.
You typically have twenty-five to thirty minutes to complete all five required skills of the hands-on CNA examination.
A Better Option
Before you decide to take the CNA certification, there might be a better option.
You Might Not Need the Certification to Work as a CNA
In some instances, because you’re already in nursing school, you might not need the certification exam to be able to work as a CNA.
Go to the job board and find some CNA jobs and call the facility and ask them to be sure.
You Might Be Able to Challenge the NCLEX-PN
Some states allow you to challenge the NCLEX PN and become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) if you’re in an RN program. Yes, you heard it right!
This could be an excellent alternative if you’re in one of the few states that permit this.
Becoming an LPN can provide additional experience and open up many job opportunities while you continue your journey toward becoming an RN.
However, keep in mind that the regulations and requirements vary from state to state, so it’s crucial to do your homework and understand the specifics of your state’s nursing board rules.
You can find out more information about that in the article “Can an RN Student Take the LPN Exam?”
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