What is a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistant (CHPNA)?

A Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistant (CHPNA) is a healthcare professional who specializes in providing care to patients who are approaching the end of their lives or who have serious illnesses that require palliative care. CHPNAs work under the direction of a hospice or palliative care team and provide physical, emotional, and spiritual support to patients and their families.

How do I become a CHPNA?

To become a CHPNA, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a minimum of two years of experience in hospice or palliative care. Candidates must also complete a CHPNA training program and pass the CHPNA certification exam. The training program covers topics such as symptom management, pain control, communication skills, and ethical considerations.

What are the benefits of a CHPNA certification?

CHPNA certification can lead to expanded job opportunities, increased pay, and professional recognition. Certification also demonstrates to employers and patients that the CHPNA has met certain standards of knowledge and skill related to hospice and palliative care.

What is the CHPNA certification exam?

The CHPNA certification exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills related to hospice and palliative care, including topics such as symptom management, pain control, communication skills, and ethical considerations. The exam may be administered by a certifying organization and may be offered in paper or computer-based formats.

What do i need to know about the CHPNA exam?

The Restorative Nursing Assistant (RNA) certification exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills related to restorative care. Here are some details about the RNA certification exam:

Content

The CHPNA certification exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills related to hospice and palliative care, including topics such as symptom management, pain control, communication skills, and ethical considerations. The exam may also cover topics such as end-of-life care, spiritual care, and psychosocial support.

Format

The CHPNA certification exam may be offered in a variety of formats, such as multiple-choice questions, true/false questions, or fill-in-the-blank questions. The exam may be taken on paper or on a computer, depending on the certifying organization.

Length

The length of the exam may vary depending on the certifying organization, but it typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

Scoring

The passing score for the CHPNA certification exam varies by certifying organization, but it is typically around 70-80%. Candidates who pass the exam will receive their CHPNA certification, while those who do not pass may be required to retake the exam after a certain waiting period.

Preparation

To prepare for the CHPNA certification exam, candidates may take a CHPNA training program that covers the content of the exam. Study guides and practice exams may also be available to help candidates prepare.

How do I maintain my CHPNA certification?

To maintain CHPNA certification, most certifying organizations require CHPNAs to renew their certification every 2 years. This may involve completing continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam.

What are the job opportunities for CHPNAs?

CHPNAs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospice and palliative care facilities, hospitals, and home health agencies. Job opportunities for CHPNAs are expected to grow in the coming years as the demand for hospice and palliative care services increases.

How much do CHPNAs make?

The median hourly wage for Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Attendants, which includes CHPNAs, was $14.25 as of May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility a CHPNA works in.