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You’ve been working hard and taking classes to get your State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) certificate and now it’s time to take your test. While taking tests can be nerve wracking, if you’re well prepared they won’t seem as intimidating.

Part of being prepared means that you know how to study effectively. We’re going to discuss some practical study tips that will help you be prepared for your STNA exam.

• Give Yourself Plenty of Time

There is no point and also no benefit in cramming all of your studying into one session. In order to get the most out of your studying, you should plan out and schedule your study times over a week or two. Make sure you give yourself enough time to cover everything. Really work hard to understand the concepts and not just memorize the questions and answers.

• Find Your Learning Style

We all learn differently taking STNA classes. Find out what works best for you and then apply those methods to how you study. Are you a visual person? Try sketching diagrams or pictures. Do you learn best through hearing things? Have a friend or classmate read questions and answers out loud. Whatever your learning style, adapt your studying habits to reflect it.

• Set Up Your Space

Typically it is easiest for people to study in quiet, comfortable spaces. Find a place you can study without distraction, and also a place that is comfortable. However, a word of caution; don’t get too comfortable or you might fall asleep! Some people like to play classical music while they study so that there is some level of outside noise to help keep them alert. Play around with it and see what works best for you.

• Find Your Weak Points

Once you have studied your material for a while, ask a friend, relative or classmate to test you. This gives you a chance to practice answering the questions and also gives you a gauge of where you stand. If there are certain areas that you missed many questions in, then you will know where you need to spend more time.

• Make Sure to Take Breaks

It is not productive to study for long periods of time without a break. Your mind simply cannot retain all the information coming in. Try setting a timer for yourself when sitting down to study. For every 45 minutes of concentration, take a 15 minute break. Get up and walk around, stretch, and give your mind a break.

Practice these tips when studying for your STNA exam and it will help make the process a little easier. Do you have any study tips that have worked well for you? Please feel free to share your tips for success and help others pass their STNA test with flying colors.

We know that studying for any test can seem overwhelming. That’s why at Premier Choice Health Services we offer unlimited free reviews for the skills you’ve learned, free sample state written tests on our computers, and unlimited access to the facility to practice your skills and written exams. As a result of our thoroughness, PCHS has the highest pass rate in the state of Ohio.

Contact us today at 614-896-6420 to sign up for classes and start your journey towards becoming an STNA!

There are several successful characteristics for the nursing field. Do you have what it takes to be a STNA? Here’s what you need to know.

After you complete your classes and healthcare training you may still be wondering: Do you have what it takes to be a STNA? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many other STNA graduates worry that they aren’t ready for their exciting new career either. After all, as an STNA you will be providing care for patients in many different exciting and stressful situations. Training was one thing, but going out and living your dream can seem daunting at first. Don’t despair, you have what it takes. Your classes have given you all of the proper training you could ever need to become a successful, compassionate, and sought-after STNA. Still worried? Here’s what you need to know about the characteristics of a successful nursing career.

Drive and Passion
Your motivation when it comes to your career and training to become an STNA could make all the difference in landing you your dream job in the healthcare field. Drive and determination play a huge role in having what it takes to become an STNA.

Calm and Collected Attitude
Nursing can be stressful and time sensitive, making the need for your calm and collected attitude not only appreciated, but necessary in your career. You will be working with doctors, nurses, and patients of all different background, you will be performing uncomfortable or unappealing tasks, as well as dealing with high stress levels and emotions. Showing a professional and calm demeanor during these times makes you the right candidate.

An Empathetic Disposition
Nursing isn’t always technical. In fact, much of nursing involves the relationship you develop with your patients. Empathy is essential when you are dealing with sick patients and their families. Being in a healthcare facility can mean serious illness and serious discomfort. It won’t be unusual to run into a distraught patient. Your empathy will help you put yourself in your patient’s shoes and show them the compassion and support they need during their difficult stay.

Physical Endurance
STNA’s will be doing a lot of heavy lifting and will spend a lot of time on their feet during their careers in healthcare. This makes physical endurance an essential quality to have.

Nursing isn’t easy, and neither are the qualities involved in pursuing an STNA career. Not all of the characteristics listed come naturally to those training to become an STNA, but with the proper classes and the right motivation, you’ll be on your way to a great attitude and an exciting career in the medical field.

If you’re looking to pursue a career in the medical field, one of the first things you’re going to be looking at are schools. STNA classes and training are essential to starting potential careers in the medical field. When considering schools you’re going to want to make realistic choices based on what fits your current schedule and personal situation. So how can you choose an STNA training program that’s right for you? Here are 6 key ingredients needed when deciding on the right school for you.

Location
When choosing your school and classes, it’s important to look for a school that is in a location you’re comfortable with. Will you be willing to move to attend a good school? Do you have family or work obligations that don’t allow you to pick up and leave? These are all things to consider before choosing an STNA program.

Accreditation
When looking into STNA programs make sure your school is accredited by your State. This means your school will have met state regulations and nursing accreditation. These are signs of a good school that takes your education seriously. These school credentials will also help you when applying for jobs in the future.

Price
While good teachers, accredited schools, and hands-on experience are all must-haves on your STNA school checklist, there is no point in choosing a school that you can’t afford! Price should definitely be a consideration when choosing your school, especially if you won’t be receiving any grants, loans, or other types of government funding for your education. Do research on your top school choices and see which one is realistic for your budget, and be sure to check into any financial assistance your school may be offering.

Program and Pass-Rates
When it comes to choosing an STNA training program, you’re going to want to pay close attention to program details, exceptional instructors, and pass-rates. Pass rates not only mean you’ll be on your way to your new career in no time, it is also a sign that your instructors are professional and take the time to assist you on a personal level with what you’re learning.

Online VS. In-House
Are you looking to attend school at a physical institution, or does your personal situation call for online learning? Both types of STNA education are available, each with their own pros and cons. This is a definite factor when considering classes and training programs for the medical field.

Class Experience and Post-Grad Opportunities
Accredited programs will offer their students clinical instruction and hands-on experience during STNA training. Some schools may even offer placements post-graduation. This hands-on training can make all the difference in whether you land your dream job after graduation.

Your education is of the utmost importance and makes all the difference where you end up in life, so take your STNA selection process seriously and don’t settle for less than you deserve. Good luck!