Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Advanced Standing
- CNA Requirement
- CPR Certification
- Criminal Background Checks
- General Information
- Getting Into The Program
- Health Requirements
- New Admission Requirements
- The Waiting List
- Transfer Students
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. Where is the District Nursing office located?
The administrative offices for the District Nursing programs are located on the Ankeny campus in Building 9. Click here for maps of DMACC’s campuses
2. Is your nursing program accredited?
Yes, our Practical Nursing and Associate Degree Nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc.(NLNAC) 61 Broadway, New York, NY 10006. All educational options are approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing.
3. I'd like printed information on your program. How can I get it?
You can download our Program Information Brief (PIB). It contains: program locations, entry requirements, graduation requirements, prerequisites, a list of courses in the program (curriculum), estimated costs, estimated salary, skills and type of work in this career.
4. How long will it take me to complete the Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) program?
The ADN program is 5 semesters and takes 2 years to complete.
5. Is there a way to complete the nursing program in less time?
No. There is no accelerated option for the Associate Degree Nursing program
6. Are nursing courses offered in the summer?
At the present time, only Advanced Standing Nursing students may have a nursing course during the summer – ADN 126 Passport to Nursing. However, many of the General Education courses (English, Math, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Interpersonal and Small Group Communications, etc.) are offered in the summer.
7. I am an LPN and want to go back to school so I can become an RN. Is there a program for people like me at DMACC?
Yes! Our Advanced Standing Program is designed for LPNs who want to advance their education so they are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed as a registered nurse. See the Requirements section of this web site.
8. Is the Nursing Program offered by distance education?
No, not at this time.
9. Are any of the required courses available on the Internet?
Some general education courses are available by alternative delivery methods such as internet and TV. See the current directory of classes for specific course listings. Required Nursing courses are not available online.
10. Do you have classes every day once you are in the full-time nursing program?
For the P.N. program you will usually be in class, lab or clinical four to five days a week.
For the A.D.N. program, usually you will have nursing class, lab or clinical five days of the week.
11. I've heard people say they want to go to school and get their RN. What is the RN?
R.N. (registered nurse) is a legal license to practice as a nurse, not an education level. To be eligible to take the licensing exam for RN, you must be graduated from an accredited RN level program.
12. Can I take the Nursing Program part-time?
There is a part-time evening option offered at the Urban Campus for both the Practical Nursing and Associate Degree Nursing programs. Part-Time Evening/Weekend Option page.
Students enrolled in the full-time option can decrease their course loads by completing all the required liberal arts courses either prior to entering the program or during the summer breaks.
Students enrolled in the program who encounter life issues that prevent them from continuing on a full-time basis, may continue taking courses part-time on a space available basis only.
13. Can I work full-time and be a full-time student in the Nursing Program?
It is not recommended.
We recognize that some students must work for financial reasons. However, we encourage those students to limit their work to part-time during the program to allow sufficient time for studying. Some semesters have 5 required courses (16 credits). For every 1 credit you take, plan to spend 2 hours on homework per week. For example, if you are enrolled in 12 credits, plan to spend 24 hours/week on studying outside of class. Students who deny themselves study time due to work, play, or other obligations, decrease the likelihood of their success in the nursing program.
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GETTING INTO THE PROGRAM
14. I am a mature student and do not meet the academic admission requirements. How do I get started?
You are only a click away! Start with a visit to the Requirements section of this website to learn about program requirements and the admission process.
In addition:
Contact an academic advisor for health programs and make an appointment or call for advice regarding a time-line of preparatory courses and which specific courses you should take first.Seek out advice from Student Services regarding how to be successful, such as planning your finances, support systems, and study skills.
15. Where do I apply?
You may apply at any DMACC campus or online. All Nursing program applications are processed through the Admissions office on the Ankeny campus.
16. Where and when are the required Nursing Information Sessions held?
Applicants are encouraged to attend the required Nursing Information Sessions ASAP. They are held on the Ankeny, Boone, Carroll and Newton campuses.
Click here for a schedule
17. Do I need to make a reservation to attend the Nursing Information Sessions?
It depends on the campus.
For a schedule of Information Sessions click here.
- Boone: to schedule a session in Boone call 515-433-5071.
- Carroll: to schedule a session in Carroll call 712-792-1755.
- Ankeny/Urban: you do not need a reservation. All you need to do is show up a little early on the day of the session and be sure to sign in.
- Newton: to schedule a session in Newton call 641-791-3622
18. Where do I go to take the COMPASS tests?
You can take the tests at any DMACC campus Assessment Center. You will need to call to make an appointment and to get directions.
19. What are the COMPASS test questions like?
Sample questions from the ACT web site are available at: http://www.act.org/compass/sample/index.html
20. How are students selected for the nursing programs?
Completion of all program entry requirements ensures acceptance into the program. However, because the number of applicants exceeds the number of seats, students may have to wait for a seat to become available before they can enroll and register.
21. I took Biology 133 (Health Science Anatomy) and received a grade of C- . Can I be accepted into the Nursing Program?
No. You must earn a grade of at least C or higher in all required courses. You will need to re-take the course and earn a C or better and complete all other entry requirements before you will be eligible for acceptance into the program.
22. I have been accepted into the Nursing Program but I deferred my seat. Do I need to re-apply?
No. You can defer/delay until the next admitting date. However, you are allowed to defer only once. If you defer a second time, your name will be placed at the bottom of the waiting list.
23. I applied to the Nursing program and received a letter telling me I’ve been accepted to “pre-nursing.” Does this mean I’m in the Nursing program?
No it does not. Acceptance to Pre-nursing means only that you’ve been accepted by DMACC and can enroll in courses that will prepare you to meet the entry requirements for the Nursing program.
You are considered to be a “Pre-nursing” applicant until you complete all entry requirements for the Nursing program. When all entry requirements are met, Admissions will send a letter telling you that you have been accepted into the Nursing program and the approximate semester you can anticipate starting the program. Click here for a diagram of the Admissions process.
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THE WAITING LIST
24. What do I have to do to get on the waiting list?
You have to:
- Apply to the Nursing program
- Satisfy all entry requirements
You will then be placed on the waiting list for the campus and program (Full-time or part-time) you applied to.
25. When can I apply to the Nursing program?
Your application should be your first step. Then you complete the entry requirements. When your application and entry requirements are complete, you’ll be placed on the standby (waiting) list for the Nursing program.
The earlier you apply and complete all entry requirements, the sooner you will go on the waiting list.
26. How long is the waiting list for the DMACC Nursing program?
You can expect to wait approximately one to 1 ½ years after completing all entry requirements.
27. What if a large number of students satisfy the entry requirements all at the same time? In what order do they go on the list?
Their names are put on the waiting list according to the date of their Nursing application.
28. Can I be admitted sooner if I go to another campus?
It is unlikely.
29. Can I put my name on the waiting list on all 4 campuses?
No. You can only be on one Campus’ waiting list at a time.
30. If I enroll in the Nursing program in Ankeny can I change my mind and later enroll in the program at Boone or Carroll?
Only if there is a seat available. There are no guarantees.
31. I signed up for the full-time program and am on the waiting list. What happens to my place on the list if I decide to sign up for the part-time program instead?
You can only be on one list at a time. If you decide to change your application to the part-time program, your name will be removed from the full-time list and be added to the bottom of the part-time list.
32. I’m currently on the DMACC waiting list. If I am accepted into another Nursing program in town and decide after a semester that I want to enroll in DMACC, can I transfer in at that time?
No. You could not enroll until your name came up on the waiting list which provides a seat at the beginning of the program.
Transferring between schools mid-program usually results in a loss of credits and time and is not advised.
33. Can I take a nursing course while I’m on the waiting list?
No. Only students accepted into the program can register for nursing courses.
34. Are there courses I can take while I’m on the waiting list?
Yes, you can take any non-nursing course. We suggest taking the liberal arts courses that are part of the nursing program of study. See page 2 of the Application Check Sheet for suggested courses to consider taking while you are waiting. When you are accepted into the program all you will need to take are the nursing courses. This will lighten your course load and make the nursing program more manageable.
However, if insurance or financial aid requires you to be enrolled as a full-time (12 credits or more) student, you’ll need to take this into consideration in planning how many courses to take.
35. Why is the wait so long?
There are more interested students than available seats.
36. Why aren’t more seats added?
In the period between 2000 – 2005, DMACC doubled its enrollment in the nursing program. Expanding the program requires not only a seat in a classroom, but also space in lab and clinical settings, plus qualified faculty to teach in classroom, lab and clinical settings. These key resources are limited in availability.
37. How many students are accepted each semester?
It varies by campus. Visit the "About this Program" section and see Full-Time Option page and Part-Time Option page.
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CNA REQUIREMENT
38. Does either the Med Aide certification or the Home Care Aide certification satisfy the Nursing program entry requirements?
No.
39. I am an EMT. Does this satisfy the CNA requirement?
No. The curriculum and competencies for EMT, while critical to those receiving the service, are not the same as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
40. Does completing the 75-hour Advanced Nurse Aide course since 1992 meet the Nursing program requirement?
No, not unless the 75-hour C.N.A. course is also documented.
41. I’ve completed a 75-hour approved Nurse Aide course but didn’t take the Nurse Aide Registry Exam. Do I need to take it before I can be accepted into the DMACC Nursing program?
Students who start Nursing classes in either the Fall of `07 or the Spring of `08 will be admitted under the old requirements and are not required to take the Direct Care Worker’s Registry exam (Nurse Aide Registry exam). Students admitted to Nursing in the Fall of `08 or thereafter will need to meet the new entry requirements which include passing both parts of the Direct Care Worker’s Registry exam (written and skills tests), taking the Advanced Nurse Aide course (HSC 182/NRAO 333) and the Nursing Admissions tests. Click here to see the Admissions Process flowchart.
If you are not currently on the Standby (waiting) list it is in your best interest to plan and complete all of the new requirements and take the Direct Care Worker’s Registry exams. There is not a separate Registry test for the Advanced CNA level.
42. I took a C.N.A. course, but not at DMACC. What do I need to do to see if it was an approved program and satisfies your requirements?
Take a copy of your certificate of completion to Admissions and they will make the determination.
43. I completed the Nurse Aide course since 1992, but have now let my Registry certification expire. What do I have to do to meet the new entry requirements?
To meet the new entry requirements, which will be enforced beginning Fall `08, you will need to submit proof of successful completion of both the Nurse Aide written (NRAO858) and skills test (NRAO859) for placement on the Direct Care Worker Registry. A transcript indicating you passed both tests or a Registry card will serve as verification. In addition, you will have to complete the Advanced CNA course (HSC 182/NRAO 333) or a combined equivalent 120 hour or more course. A transcript of your course grade or certificate of completion will serve as verification.
Please note that if you want to work in Long Term Care, you will need to take the Nurse Aide Competency testing again to demonstrate your competency and skills.
44. Will a copy of my Nurse Aide Registry card satisfy as proof that I successfully completed an approved 75-hour C.N.A. course?
No it won’t. Since it is possible to take the Registry exam without completing an approved course (page 14 “Your Guide to the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry) you need to supply a copy of your certificate of completion or a transcript.
The registry provides an important service to the public by assuring that those who successfully pass the testing can provide minimally safe care to vulnerable (elderly, dependent) health care recipients. This is not the same as passing the course, including all skills and theory exams.
45. What is successful completion of the C.N.A. requirement?
Your certificate must indicate that the course was “Passed” or that you earned a grade of “C” or better (not C minus)
46. I’m confused about the difference between DMACC’s requirement for C.N.A. and the requirements for getting on the state Nurse Aide Registry (Direct Care Worker's Registry). Are they the same?
No they are different as outlined below:
DMACC Nursing Program Requirement:
Complete an approved 75 hour C.N.A. course January 1992 or after. Effective Fall 2008 students will also have to successfully complete the Advanced CNA course.Certification for the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry (Direct Care Worker's Registry) Requirement:
Complete a written exam and a skills test. It is possible to take the Registry exam without completing an approved CNA course.Certification for the Nurse Aide Registry is for a different purpose. The DMACC Nursing program needs validation that you are knowledgeable regarding the basic nursing protocols included in an approved 75-hour CNA course and the Advanced CNA course. Your C.N.A. certificate(s) of completion or a transcript validates this. Once you are in the Nursing program, no time will be spent updating your basic nurse aide skills. You must be ready to perform all of these skills on entry.
47. I completed the 75-hour CNA course but didn’t take the Direct Care Worker tests. Is there a time limit between completing the 75-hour CNA course and taking the Direct Care Worker written and skills tests?
No. You may test at anytime.
48. I passed the Nurse Aide Registry (Direct Care Worker Registry) tests but my card has now expired. Will an expired card satisfy the new entry requirements?
Yes. A registry card, even though expired, shows proof that you successfully completed the written and the skills tests for placement on the Registry.
49. I took a Nurse Aide course prior to 1992, but I’ve been working. Do I have to repeat the course or is there some way I can challenge it?
If the class was taken prior to 1992, you must retake the Nurse Aide/Orderly class as the entire curriculum changed at that time. To clarify nurse aide requirements and challenge test information, contact Linda Miller, Health Coordinator at (515) 964-6353.
50. If I have completed a higher level Nurse Aide course, like the 120 hour Nursing Assistant course, will this satisfy the new DMACC Nursing Program entry requirement?
As long as you can document completion of an approved Advanced course with at least the minimum of 75 hours since 1992 the requirement will be met. You would also need to take and pass the Nurse Aide written (NRAO858) and skills test (NRAO859). There is not a separate Registry test for the Advanced CNA level.
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CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
Criminal background checks will be completed on each student. Criminal convictions or documented history of abuse may delay or prevent students from participating in clinical education experiences. Students unable to participate in clinical education will be unable to complete the nursing program.
51. Can an individual with a felony become licensed?
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ADVANCED STANDING
52. I am an LPN and want to go on to get my RN. Is there a part-time Advanced Standing program?
There are not seats reserved in the part-time program for Advanced Standing students. If a seat is vacated in the part-time Associate Degree Nursing program, we can fill it with an Advanced Standing applicant.
53. I will be graduated May 6th from the Associate Degree Nursing program. My LPN license expires April 15th. Am I required to renew my LPN license?
Yes. The Iowa Board of Nursing requires that your license be maintained throughout your program. Since you will still be enrolled in the program after April 15th you must renew your LPN license.
54. What are the new entry requirements for the Advanced Standing (LPN to RN) program?
Students admitted to Advanced Standing Nursing in the Summer of `08 or later will need to meet the new entry requirements.
55. How do I know if the Practical Nursing program I graduated from is comparable to DMACC’s Practical Nursing Program?
The Director of Nursing Education will determine if a program is comparable in both nursing theory and practicum experience and provide a list to the Admissions office. They will determine if your program is listed. If your program is not listed you will be advised what documents to provide.
56. What if my school isn’t recognized as comparable to DMACC’s Practical Nursing program? What are my options if I want to complete an Associate Degree in Nursing at DMACC?
Students whose program of study is not comparable to DMACC’s could apply to Special Start in the final term of the Practical Nursing program (Term 2). If they successfully complete all Term 2 requirements, they would then be eligible for admission into the Associate Degree Program.
57. How soon can I sign up for the PN – to – ADN Admissions Test? Where do I go to take it, what score do I need to pass it and is there a cost to test?
Enforcement of this new requirement has been delayed until Summer 2009. Information on the details for this test will be posted on this web site and available from the Admissions office, Counselors and Educational Advisors.
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HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
58. I have a positive TB test. Do you require that I get an annual chest x-ray?
No. Students who have a + PPD (TB test) are required to provide documentation that they’ve had a negative chest x-ray (CxR) prior to entering the nursing program. After they are in the program, they are required to notify us if they become symptomatic. We do not require an annual chest x-ray.
59. How often do I have to get a TB test and where do I go to get one?
Every year while you are enrolled in the program. It is your responsibility to renew your TB test (PPD) during or before the month it expires and to provide a copy of the results to your Program Chair/Program Coordinator for your file.
Some health employers will provide annual TB tests to their employees. You can also check with your County Health Department and the Ankeny Campus Nurse (964-6352).
60. I can’t locate documentation of my immunizations. What can I do?
Discuss options with your health care provider. You may be able to be re-immunized or have antibody titers drawn (blood tests) to see if you have immunity. Testing for antibodies can be expensive.
For tips on where to look for immunization records and where to go to be immunized, click here.
61. I don’t currently have health insurance. Is it required for the Nursing Program?
It is not required, but highly recommended. You may contact the Ankeny Campus Nurse for information on low-cost Student Accident and Health Insurance Plans. 800-362-2127, ext. 6352. For more information: http://www.dmacc.edu/ankeny/health_assistance.asp
62. I don’t have health insurance and can’t afford to go to the doctor for immunizations. What can I do?
Contact a counselor on your nearest DMACC campus. They have an Area Resource Guide which may list free or subsidized clinics. You can also contact your County Public Health Department to inquire about immunization services. For a listing of Public Health Departments in Iowa, click here. The Ankeny Campus Nurse provides Hepatitis B, Tetanus-Diphtheria immunizations and TB tests to students for a reasonable fee. The Campus Nurse is located in Building 5 on the Ankeny Campus and can be reached at 515-964-6352 during the Fall and Spring semesters.
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TRANSFER STUDENTS
63. I took some courses at another college. Will they transfer in to DMACC?
Transfer credit is not automatically granted. You must have your official transcripts mailed to the Admissions Office in Ankeny for evaluation. It is important to first:
- submit an application to DMACC,
- then arrange to have an official transcript from the other college you have attended mailed to the Ankeny campus Admissions Office
When your transcripts arrive, the Credentials office will evaluate the courses you've taken for the program you've indicated on your application. It can take 5 weeks or more to evaluate your transfer credit depending on the time of year, the age of your coursework, and if we need to request additional information from the transfer institution. You will receive a letter and a copy of your DMACC transcript indicating which courses have been added to your record once the credit has been applied. file these with your important papers.
64. I was enrolled in a Nursing Program at another educational institution, can I transfer to DMACC?
Students who hope to transfer into DMACC from another nursing program should contact the District Nursing office for guidance on how to proceed.
If it is determined that you have significant credit from another nursing program, you may be advised to follow the Special Start Procedure to have your course work evaluated by the Credentials office and the Director of Nursing Education. This process may take weeks or months to complete and requires that the student provide course outlines and syllabi, in addition to transcripts, from the other nursing program. If it is determined that some of your nursing courses will transfer to DMACC and you satisfy all entry requirements, you may be admitted to the program when a seat becomes available.
If you do not have significant credit in the other program, you may be advised to apply to DMACC as a new nursing student.
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CPR CERTIFICATION
65. There are a lot of different CPR courses. Which one do I need to meet the nursing program entry requirements?
When you inquire about CPR courses, tell them you are going to be a nursing student and need a course for Health Care Professionals (American Heart Association) or CPR for the Professional Rescuer (American Red Cross).
66. Where can I go to get certified in CPR?
The American Heart Association and the American Red Cross offer CPR certification courses. Call them for a schedule.
The American Heart Association website offers help in locating providers of certification courses in your zip code area. www.americanheart.org/
DMACC’s Continuing Education department offers monthly Basic Cardiac Life Support CPR Certification and Renewal courses for Health Care Professionals that comply with American Heart Association guidelines.
67. How soon do I need to be certified in CPR?
Proof of CPR certification is required by the first day of nursing school. You must maintain current certification throughout the program.
68. How often do I need to renew my CPR certification?
Renewal requirements vary. The American Red Cross must be renewed every year. The American Heart Association must be renewed every two years.
69. Can I renew my CPR certification online?
Approved recertification courses include a written competency test and a live return skills demonstration. Courses that are only online or that do not include a live demonstration of your skills (1-man, 2-man, infant, child, adult CPR, conscious and unconscious obstructed airway management and AED - automated external defibrillator), are not acceptable.
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NEW ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
70. I heard DMACC is changing the entry requirements for the Nursing Program. When do the new requirements go into effect?
Changes to the program entry requirements for the Nursing programs were approved for the 2007 – 2008 Catalog. The College will allow a grace period to accommodate students on the waiting list who met the requirements in the 2006 – 2007 Catalog. The new requirements will be enforced for all students effective as follows:
- Practical Nursing/Associate Degree Nursing Program: Fall term 2008
- Advanced Standing Nursing (LPN to RN): Summer term 2008
71. What is the difference between the old and new requirements for the Nursing program?
The new requirements include the old requirements plus three additional conditions for entry:
- Complete Nursing Admissions Tests and attain minimum required scores in reading, writing and mathematics. This replaces the minimum scores on COMPASS Math and Reading. However, students will still have to take COMPASS Math, Reading and English to satisfy DMACC’s assessment requirements.
- Pass both the written and the skills tests for the Direct Care Worker Registry
- Pass the Advanced CNA course
72. What are the minimum scores required for the COMPASS testing in Reading, Math, and English?
Under the new requirements which will be enforced effective with the class entering Fall 2008, nursing applicants will not need to meet minimum scores on COMPASS Reading, Math or English. However, they will have to achieve minimum scores on the Nursing Admissions test. See table below for a summary of changes:
Prior to Fall 2008
Fall 2008 or laterComplete an approved 75-hour C.N.A. course January 1992 or after. Pass both the written and skills test for the Direct Patient Care Registry and provide a transcript as proof or a Registry card. Complete the Advanced CNA course (HSC 182/NRA0 333) or an equivalent120 hour or more course. DMACC Assessment test
(COMPASS tests)Yes, and must score minimums in
Math = 44 or above
Reading= 81 or aboveYes, but no minimum score required Nursing Admissions Test - the Nurse Entrance Test (NET). (NURS 850) Yes, and achieve a Composite Score of 50 or greater in Math, Reading, and Written Expression
73. If I took COMPASS and scored above 44 in math and above 81 in Reading do I still have to take the new Nursing Admissions test?
If you enter the Nursing program in the Fall of 2008 or later, you will have to take the Nursing Admissions test regardless of what you score on the COMPASS tests.
74. I applied to DMACC Nursing for a campus that admits students only in the fall semester. I meet all the old entry requirements and am on the waiting list for Fall of 2007. If I don’t get in this Fall and I don’t meet the new entry requirements, will I lose my place on the waiting list?
No. You will maintain your place on the list, but only for a limited time. You will be given a deadline by which you must satisfy the new entry requirements. If you do not meet all of the new requirements by the deadline, you will go off the waiting list. When all entry requirements are satisfied, you will then go back on the waiting list, but at the bottom of the list.
75. How can I sign up for the Nursing Admissions Test, where do I go to take it, what are the scores I need to pass it and is there a cost?
You will need to register to take the Nurse Entrance Test (NET) much like you register to take a course and may do so by phone (964-6800 or 800-342-0033) or in person. The course title is “Nursing Program Admission Test” and the course acronym and number are NURS 850. Online registration is not available for the test.
To search for a schedule of testing dates and locations go to http://www.dmacc.edu/Schedule/
Select a campus and then search using the words: Admission TestThe test evaluates your skills needed for success in a Nursing program and will be administered on the Ankeny, Boone, Carroll and Newton campuses. The test will provide valuable information concerning areas of strength and weakness in the general areas of science-based reading, written expression, and mathematics. The NET will also assess your learning style and life stressors perception. Students are encouraged to use the information to prepare themselves for the rigors of the Nursing program.
You will need to achieve a Composite Score of 50 or greater in Math, Reading and Written Expression. Please note that calculators are not permitted during the NET. If you score less than 50 in the Math, Reading or Writing sections of the test, you may retest in the area of need after a ninety (90) day remediation period. Students are encouraged to make preparations for improving in the areas of need during that ninety day period. The Academic Achievement Centers can provide you with guidance in remediating. The testing and re-testing fee is $25.
A study guide for the NET is available in the Ankeny, Boone, Carroll, Newton and Urban campus bookstores and entitled, Study Guide for NET / HOBET / HELP. This paperback book is 156 pages. A review copy may be on reserve in your campus library. A practice test is also available online at: http://www.eriproduct.com/detail.aspx?ID=88
76. When can I take the Nurse Aide Registry tests and what do they cost?
You may take the written and skills tests for the Direct Care Worker’s Registry either after you complete the 75-hour CNA course, during the Advanced CNA course or after completing the Advanced course. Early registration is recommended and can be done through DMACC’s Continuing Education Department. The two tests cost approximately $120.
77. Where can I find an Advanced Nurse Aide course?
You can find a list of course offerings and course descriptions at: http://www.dmacc.edu/conteddesc/nurseaide.asp
78. Where and when can I take the Nurse Aide written and skills tests for placement on the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry?
DMACC’s Continuing Education office offers these tests each semester. You must register and pay for them much like you register to take a class. You are encouraged to sign up for the exams at the time you start your Nurse Aide course. The exams include:
NRAO858 –Nurse Aide/Orderly Comprehensive Exam
NRAO859 – Nurse Aide/Orderly Skills ExamA listing of exam dates and sites is available on line at: http://www.dmacc.edu/conteddesc/longtermcare.asp
79. What if I can’t get in to take the Direct Care Worker Registry Exam when I want to?
The exams are offered on most campuses and you may have to travel to a neighboring campus to get a seat to test. Seats are limited and so we encourage students to sign up early.
80. Where can I learn more about the Nurse Aide Competency Exams for the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry?
A description of the exams is available online at: http://www.dmacc.edu/conteddesc/nurseaide.asp
81. Is there a separate advanced registry exam for Advanced Nurse Aides?
No. However, many hospitals that hire Advanced Nurse Aides may require them to be on the Direct Care Worker’s registry.
82. I am an International student and by law cannot work and cannot be placed on the Direct Care Worker’s Registry. How can I meet the new requirement?
Any student who passes the 75-hour Nurse Aide course is eligible to take both the Nurse Aide comprehensive written (NRAO858) and skills test (NRAO859). If you pass with a grade of C or better, that satisfies the new Nursing program requirement. You are not required to be on the Registry, but you do have to pass the required exams for it.
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Ankeny