State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam Study Guide
State Tested Nursing Assistant Exam- STNA is important for the nurse aides to qualify to be able to join Ohio’s Nurse Aide registry. This exam ensures that you have successfully mastered the core areas that were covered during your training process. It was all developed under the reform act to improve the quality of care in long-term care facilities. An important part of it was to improve the training and evaluation standards for aides who work in nursing homes.
Every state administers a CNA certification exam which involves written and knowledge test evaluation. Many states work with third-party administrators to manage the examination process. Three of the largest providers are- NNAAP/Pearson Vue, Prometric, and headmaster. Ohio’s STNA testing program makes use of Headmaster. Certified NA’s play an important part in our healthcare system and provide professional, hands-on care to the patients. They need to pass the certification exam to become qualified.
STNA’s are responsible for providing care for patients in a variety of settings. The growing needs of the elderly have resulted in the great demand for nursing assistants to provide care for the elderly.
Eligibility State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam
Candidates must be at least 18 years and above & must have taken a training program that must be approved by their State. Certain states require a minimum number of training hours before becoming certified. Candidates must first find a reliable training program that helps them to learn the important aspects of being an STNA. It is mandatory to take the program before appearing for the test.
It is important to check with the concerned state regulatory board and understand certification requirements.
Syllabus for State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam
The core areas typically covered during the exam includes-
- Nutrition
- Collecting data
- Safety
- Daily living activities
- NA roles and responsibilities
- Anatomy and physiology
- Body mechanics
- Range of motions
- Mental health
- Aging process
- Personal care
- Vital signs and testing
- Client rights
- Communication
- Medical terminology
Candidates may also be required to demonstrate nursing skills to the evaluator. They include- catheter care, feeding, dressing patients, handwashing, etc.
Format for State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam
The format for the State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam includes written as well as knowledge-based format. The written STNA exam has 79 multiple choice questions and these numbers can vary as per the state. The knowledge-based format evaluates the practical knowledge and skills in front of the evaluator.
Typically, the STNA Exam is divided into two parts- an MCQ-based format where the candidates may take a computer-based exam or a written exam. If candidates wish to take an oral-based test that is also available but it has to be requested. The second portion is skill-based where a testing proctor will be chosen to test the skills that are taught in the training program. It may evaluate the candidate on 5 skill-based scenarios.
How to apply for the State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam?
Candidates can apply for the exam online. This can be done by visiting the registered website for STNA. When candidates sign up for the test, they are also applying the Nurse aide registry. The moment candidates qualify for the test, they are automatically added to the registry and can tell the potential employers that they are Official state-tested nursing assistants.
The fee depends upon the state for which the exam is being taken. On average it includes USD 100. Fees are to be submitted with the application. It costs USD 76 to take the skills examination. The written examination is USD 24; the oral examination, USD 34.
License Renewal
Candidates who have qualified continue to be Nurse Aide registry if they maintain the work requirements. This includes working a minimum of seven and a half continuous hours or eight hours in 48 hours of nursing and nursing-related services during the 24 months.
If candidates have not completed any of these, they may complete additional training and take the certification exam again.
Scores for State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam
The qualifying scores required by the candidates depend upon for which state they are appearing for the test. Typically, candidates need 80% but some states may even require 70%.
Roles and responsibilities of STNA
- Providing care to the patients and assisting them with the day-to-day activities.
- Professional approach and skills for providing services and care.
- Must be proficient in providing physical support to the patients while eating, dressing, and restroom breaks.
Benefits of taking State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam
Candidates who wish to take up professional nursing assistants and want to work in professional settings must take this exam. It will help them with the required certification which allows them to be part of esteemed institutions, health care facilities in the country. It will provide a stepping stone to further move into the healthcare industry as a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse. Being an STNA is evolving your career with endless possibilities in the healthcare industry. With the license, you can continue your education and advance to higher levels of nursing even further.
Study Guide And Test Preparation For STNA Exam
A Complete STNA Exam Study Guide that includes sample questions, test tips and a complete study plan prepared by a team of expert and dedicated researchers. Cost-effective and qualified exam help from a committed exam preparation company.
Click here to order STNA Exam Secrets (printed book)