Loading...The aspirant is allowed to sit in the CNA exams in Missouri, only if, he/she successfully completes an accredited nurse aide training program, acknowledged by the state. The CNA training requires the student to obtain approximately 75 hours of classroom learning and 100 hours of on-the-job (clinical) training. Though, a number of community colleges and vocational-technical schools offer regular training programs in the state, but students can also opt for the online courses.
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) approves the CNA programs, and takes the responsibility to provide the instructions and on-the-job training to those, who are willing to become a certified nurse aide in Missouri.
Initially, you need to get yourself registered for the nursing assistant program, and then undertake the CNA exam in Missouri. After, passing the test, you will get listed on the Missouri State CNA Registry. In order to hire eligible nurse aides, various employers see the registry. Once certified, you can get the opportunity to work in several settings, like hospitals, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, health care centres, etc.
Eligibility Requirements
Here are the requirements that need to be fulfilled by the candidate, in order to sit for the nursing exam.
- Applicants must have successfully accomplished the classroom and clinical sessions of the training program.
- Applicants must get themselves registered and pay the fees for the final test within 90 days, after completing the classroom session of the program.
- Should be 18 years old.
- Able to communicate efficiently in English language.
- Applicants have to provide a copy of their TB test report.
- A copy of Family Care Safety Registry background screening is also required.
- Applicants are also required to bring certain educational transcripts, including relevant certifications, work verification documents and proof of training.
- Applicants are ought to submit a copy of their Social Security card, and provide other information, like address and phone number.
- Only those persons are eligible to enrol for nurse training and sit for the CNA exam, who are not found guilty of abuse, disregard or misuse of property.
- Candidates must not be on the Missouri Employee Disqualification List (EDL).
Components of the CNA Exam
Every candidate must register for the final test, within three months, once the classroom portion is completed. Like other states, the nurse aide exam in Missouri is also divided into two parts- the written test and skills test. If you want to acquire the CNA certificate, you must pass both parts of the test.
Written Examination
The written section contains 75 questions in a multiple-choice format. During the written exam, if the candidates find it difficult to read the questions, then the examiner does reading for candidates. As mentioned in the state regulations, the test has to be read in a normal voice tone, with no added words (only what is written). If the individual, appearing for the test, fails, he/she may go for retesting on the same day, only if, the examiner allows him/her for it. A minimum of 80% is required to clear the written exam.
Skills Evaluation
During skills evaluation test, the applicants are required to perform six or nine clinical skills, given by the examiner. These skills are already taught to the aspirants during the practical sessions of the training.
You have to qualify both sections, if you want to clear the overall exam.
On the day of exam
On the day of exam, you must reach the testing location at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time for the test. This gives you enough time to sign in and undergo pre-examination process. While appearing for certification exam, you need to take some essential documents to the location, such as
- Two copies of photo identification.
- Your fingerprint ID cards.
- Graduation certificate.
- A copy of your background verification or health screening.
- Required fees.
What If You Fail the Exam?
If you fail in the final test, you can give the test again within 90 days of time. You can avail three chances to qualify the test. Such candidates may have to pay additional fees for re-testing. Once you have given the exam, your results will be transferred to DHSS, which is an official certifying agency.
What If You Pass the Exam?
After qualifying the test, your name gets enlisted on the Missouri State Nurse Aide Registry as a certified nurse aide. Now, you may prepare your nurse aide resume and apply in various settings to get a relevant job.
Inactive CNAs
Candidates, who have their certification status lapsed for more than two years, but less than five years, comes under the category of inactive CNAs. Such candidates can re-take the CNA exam, in order to activate their nurse aide certification. If the nursing assistant certificate expires, the aspirant has to re-take the entire training and qualify the examination, again.
Testing Site
Undoubtedly, you will find several CNA training services in Missouri that are also approved as testing sites. Before undertaking the test, explore the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry site to find out the approved test sites.
In case of any concern or query, you can seek assistance from Missouri Nurse Aide Registry. The contact details are as follows:
Missouri Nurse Aide Registry
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Service – Division of Health
Health Education Unit
P.O. Box- 570, Jefferson City, Missouri- 65102
Phone: (573) 526-8528 / (573) 522-6203
Fax: (573) 526-7656
License Verification: (573) 526-5686