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In Utah the nurse aide registry is referred to as the Utah Health Technology Certification Center (UHTCC) |
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What is a CNA (certified nurse aide)? A CNA is a certified nursing assistant who has successfully completed a Nursing Assistant Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP),
and is placed on the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry. |
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A CNA may work in any setting such as a Nursing Home, Assisted Living, Hospital or Hospice if they are supervised by a licensed nurse (LPN, RN)
and performing nursing or nursing related services. |
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What if English is not my primary language? The written and skills exam is given in English as all CNAs must be able to read and write English in order to communicate verbally and in
writing while working in healthcare. The written exam can be taken in English and 'toggled' back and forth to a Spanish test, but it is
highly recommended to take it only in English. Headphones may be used to listen to the written test as you are taking the test on the computer.
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Can I challenge the test or be exempt from training? The UNAR office may grant a waiver in the following cases if specific requirements are met:
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Is my certification valid in any other state? If you are a nursing assistant moving from Utah to another state you must contact the registry of that state to see if your CNA status can be
transferred. You can find the State Registry's website or telephone number at State NA Registries List, under UNAR CNA Testing Forms onthis
site. Requirements vary from state to state. If you are a nursing assistant with a current certificate from another state and you are moving
into Utah, you must contact the UNAR to request an out-of-state application. |
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Where would an individual receive the nursing assistant training and who should they contact? Training programs are offered through community colleges, nursing homes, hospitals and private companies. Individuals should contact the training
program coordinator at the sites. See the link for Utah Approved Training Programs from this site. |
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Who pays for testing and training? All training programs have varying amounts of tuition. You may call an approved program to inquire on pricing (see approved training programs on
this site). A nursing assistant who is employed by, or who has received an offer of employment from a federally certified nursing care facility on the date
on which the aide begins a nurse aide training and/or competency evaluation program cannot be charged for any portion of the program.
(This includes any fees for textbooks or other required course materials). If you are not employed, or do not have an offer to be employed as
a nurse aide and you become employed by or receive an office of employment from a federally certified nursing care facility not later than 12
months after completing a nursing assistant training and competency evaluation program, you may request reimbursement of costs incurred in
completing the program. This reimbursement will be prorated during the period in which you are employed as a nursing assistant. You may apply
for this reimbursement through your employer or through the UNAR. |
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Where do I test and how do I schedule a testing appointment? The skills test and written exam are given at any one of 14 testing sites throughout Utah. After you have received your vouchers (your 'entrance
ticket to test') and a list of testing centers from the UNAR, you may call one of the test sites to set up your appointments. |
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Training is good for two years from the training completion date. It is a good idea to test as soon as you complete your training as the pass
rate is much higher if you take it right away. Should you choose not to test and 2 years pass, then you will need to retrain. |
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What should I bring on the day of testing? You must bring one form of picture ID (e.g., driver's license, passport, Utah ID card, school ID or facility ID). You will not be allowed to
take the written or skills exam without the proper identification, you will need to reschedule and you will have a late fee. If taking the
skills exam, you should be properly attired. Please see the Candidate Handbook on this site.>br> |
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What do I do if I fail the test? If you are unsuccessful on either of the tests, you will receive a notice from the UNAR with another application to apply for vouchers to retest. You must send the correct amount of money for testing and a completed application to the UNAR or vouchers will not be sent. Once you receive the vouchers, you may call a testing center and make an appointment to test. You may take the clinical skills and/or written exam three times each. Each test will cost you the same amount as the first time. Each time you
retest, you will be given a complete test. If you are unable to pass each test after three attempts, you will be required to retrain the entire
80 hour training program prior to testing again. br> |
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What should I know about test security? The use of assistance of any type is strictly prohibited. The Utah Nursing Assistant Registry has a zero tolerance cheating policy. If caught cheating you will be excused from the testing center and prohibited from obtaining a nursing assistant certification. Examples of items that are not permitted during testing may include, but are not limited to:
A translation dictionary is allowed if the testing center has prior notice and has had a chance to review the dictionary. Back to top |
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Where can I get study information? Included in this website is a Candidate Handbook, which may assist you in preparing for the test. Please check out all the links on the website. |
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What are the fees for taking the exam? The testing fees are paid prior to receiving the vouchers required to take the exams. You will not be allowed to test without your vouchers. A fee is required each time you test. The written test and clinical skills are both $35.00 each as of 9/1/06.Check the application for the current test fees. Retests are the same price. Other fees: Nursing Assistant pins $ 5.00 (optional) Renewal late fee $10.00 (required) |
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What does the written exam cover? The exam covers the areas of safety and emergencies, infection control, personal care, mental health, resident rights, communication, basic
nursing skills, disease processes, restorative care, roles and responsibilities.
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A nursing assistant's certificate is valid for two years from the time of issue. Certifications must be renewed every two years. As a service to
you, approximately 45 days prior to the expiration of the certificate, a renewal notice is mailed to the last known address on the registry.
Keeping the registry notified of any change of address is important for ensuring that you will receive your renewal notice. Sometimes nursing
assistants do not receive their renewal notices because of unreported name and address changes, and occasional post office irregularities.
There are no guarantees that you will receive this form. Therefore, it is your responsibility to keep track of your own expiration date and
to notify the registry of any name and address changes. |
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Is there a grace period for renewal? The renewal is free and your renewal form must be received in the UNAR office, complete and correct, by the end of the month in which it expires.
If received within the 30 day grace period (after expiration), there will be a $10.00 late fee. If you do not send in your renewal form by the
end of the 30 day grace period, you will be required to retest. |
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What are the office hours of the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR)? Staff may be reached Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. by calling 801-547-9947. The office is closed for all
State and Federal holidays. |
October 23, 2009