Frequently Asked Questions About Computer-Based Testing
Why did ABPANC decide to make the change to computer-based testing (CBT)?
ABPANC began computer-based testing in Spring 2009. CBT allows ABPANC to offer many additional test sites and testing dates to candidates. Candidates can also schedule a test date to match their study plans and progress. CBT also allows us to communicate testing schedules and provide score reports faster and more efficiently.
How much does it cost to take the CPAN® or CAPA® examinations by CBT?
If you are an ASPAN member, the cost to sit for the examination via CBT is $285. Non-ASPAN members pay $385.
Where can I sit for the CBT examination?
Candidates can take the examination at many of the hundreds of test sites that our testing partner, Prometric, operates. When you apply to take an examination, you will be able to access a full list of test sites so that you can choose the location that is most convenient for you.
What test dates are available for the CPAN and CAPA CBT examinations?
ABPANC offers two, six-week-long testing windows for candidates to take the CPAN and CAPA examinations via CBT. Candidates have 60 days a year to take the examination(s) versus two days a year using the old paper-and-pencil method.
For information about dates and deadlines for 2012–2013, please refer to Appendix E of the Certification Candidate Handbook. Please note: the last day of the registration window is a FINAL deadline. Applications submitted electronically after 11:59PM ET on this date will NOT be accepted.
In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements for the examination(s), are there any extra requirements before signing up for the CBT examination(s)?
You must have a current email address to register online to take the examination(s). ABPANC, Professional Examination Services (PES) and our testing partner, Prometric, will communicate with you primarily through email to confirm your test date and testing site. You will be required to enter an email address during the registration process. If you do not have a current email address, you can obtain one through a free service such as Yahoo (www.mail.yahoo.com) or Gmail (www.gmail.com).
Do I have to apply online to take the examination(s) via CBT?
Yes. The benefits of registering online include:
- Immediate notification if your application is accepted
- Admission to Test (ATT) letter is immediately available for downloading, which enables you to schedule your testing appointment quickly
- The ability to view your score report
- The ability to download a receipt
- Provides for email communication from Prometric and PES in the event of special circumstances, e.g. closure of a test site due to a weather emergency
I don’t have a computer, how can I access the Internet to register for the examination?
If you don’t have access to a computer at home or work, you may want to check with your employer to see if there is a “common” computer available for use in your hospital/institution. We also suggest that you check with local libraries, coffee shops, Internet cafes, friends or family members for computer access.
I’m not familiar with applying online. Is it difficult?
No. Simply visit the ABPANC Web site and click on the link to apply online when it is available. We will walk you through the online application process step by step. If you experience technical issues in the application process, contact ABPANC at (800) 6ABPANC or (800) 622-7262 for assistance.
How is the CBT examination scored?
The passing scores for the CPAN and CAPA examinations are initially determined based on a criterion referenced system. Candidate scores are determined based on the number of test questions answered correctly (raw score). To ensure fairness of the examination process, a statistical method called equating is used. Following equating, raw scores are mathematically converted into scaled scores (ranging from 200-800). The passing scores for the CPAN and CAPA examinations have been set by ABPANC at 450. Therefore, for both the CPAN and CAPA examinations, a score of 450 scale score units must be obtained to pass. Detailed information about scoring is available in the Certification Candidate Handbook.
Will my score be available as soon as I finish the examination?
You will receive a preliminary, unofficial pass/fail report immediately after taking the computer-based examination. PES sends official score reports to candidates every few weeks. Official score reports will also be available online to candidates that applied online. You can login to reprint your score report.
What will I need to get into the CBT testing site?
Valid photo identification and the Admission-to-Test Ticket (ATT) are required for admission to the examination test site. Examples of acceptable forms of photo identification include: driver’s license, employee identification card, passport, or bank card with a photo ID. NOTE: The name on your photo identification must exactly match the name on your ATT letter and online application.
Are the testing sites noisy because other test candidates are typing on key boards?
Prometric testing sites use state-of-the-art key boards that are the quietest available to keep the testing site noise level at a minimum. Ear plugs are also available by request.
How do I schedule my CBT testing appointment?
After you apply online, you will receive an Admission-to-Test (ATT) letter from Professional Examination Service (PES). The letter will provide detailed instructions on how to select your test site and schedule your appointment during one of the two available testing windows. Testing sites may fill up fast. Schedule your appointment as soon as possible to increase the chance of testing on your desired date and at a convenient location.
Can I take both the CPAN and CAPA examinations during the same testing window?
Yes. You can take both examinations within the same testing window or even on the same day. Please note that you must apply for each examination separately and pay appropriate fees for each.
Do I have to be an experienced computer user to take the computer-based examination?
No prior computer experience is necessary. At the beginning of an examination, each candidate will receive a brief tutorial on how to use the computer to answer questions and review responses. Test center staff members are always available to answer questions also. The complete tutorial lasts 15 minutes and does not count against your overall testing time.
How much time do I have to take the examination?
You have three hours to complete the examination. The computer has a clock to monitor your time. The clock will also count down the time remaining.
Is there a practice test I can take before sitting for the computer-based examination?
The Certification Candidate Handbook for the CPAN and CAPA examinations contains a few sample examination questions to help you prepare for the examination. There are also practice examinations for both the CPAN and CAPA examinations available on ABPANC's Web site.
What if I am unable to sit for the examination when I scheduled it?
Specific information about canceling a testing appointment is available in the Certification Candidate Handbook.
How do I reschedule a testing appointment?
Candidates who need to re-schedule a testing appointment should contact Prometric. Specific information on rescheduling a testing appointment is available in the Certification Candidate Handbook.
How many times can I sit for the CBT examination?
Candidates can sit for each examination once per testing window.
What should I do if I’m requesting special accommodations?
ABPANC is interested in ensuring that no individual is deprived of the opportunity to take the examination solely by reason of a disability or impairment. All test centers are fully accessible and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Special testing arrangements will be considered for disabled individuals provided a request is submitted along with the examination application. Documentation and verification of the disability or impairment from a suitably licensed professional must be submitted to Professional Examination Service (PES) with the completed examination application by the application deadline established for all candidates. For complete instructions refer to the Certification Candidate Handbook.
Who Writes the CAPA and CPAN Examinations?
Examination questions are written by practicing perianesthesia nurses who are also CPAN or CAPA certified. Interested in volunteering to write items/questions? Click here for more information on how to get involved.
Examination Construction Committee
2011-2012 Examination Review Committee Members:
| Teresa Emmons, CPAN (Board Liaison) Knoxville, TN |
Vonda Kay Fitch, CPAN, CAPA (Co-Chair) Carlsbad, NM |
Maria Gazy, CAPA Lilburn, GA |
| Valerie Gillis, CPAN (Co-Chair) Redmond, WA |
Michelle Halat, CPAN Howell, NJ |
Elisa Haynes, CPAN Eden, NC |
| Sherri Quinn, CPAN, CAPA Indianapolis, IN |
Linda Smith, CPAN, CAPA Mills River, NC |
Cindy Terwilliger, CPAN, CAPA Phoenix, AZ |
| Mark Veazie, CAPA Sugarland, TX |
Patricia Gatto, CPAN Sterling Heights, MI |
Graze Bautista, CPAN/CAPA Baltimore, MD |
| Ruth Joy Shiller, CAPA Richmond, TX |
Patricia Bouchard, CAPA (Board Liaison) Bedford, NH |
Deirdre Cronin, CPAN, CAPA (President-Elect) Bethesda, MD |
| Annette Brancati, CPAN (Board Member) Columbia, SC |
||
2011-2012 Item Writer/Review Committee:
| Patricia Bouchard, CAPA (Board Liaison) Bedford, NH |
Annette Brancati, CPAN (Board Member) Columbia, SC |
Teresa Emmons, CPAN (Board Liason) Fort Pierce, FL |
| Sue Brady, CAPA Charlottesville, VA |
Deirdre Cronin, CPAN, CAPA (President-Elect) Bethesda, MD |
Vonda Kay Fitch, CPAN, CAPA (Co-Chair) Carlsbad, NM |
| Valerie Gillis, CPAN (Co-Chair) Redmond, WA |
Beverly Harrelson, CPAN Danville, VA |
Marilyn Krysl, CPAN Laramie, WY |
| Ling Ann Koshak, CAPA Brandon, MS |
Kathleen Lombardo, CAPA Whitestone, NY |
Lori Mulcare, CPAN, CAPA Fort Collins, CO |
| Kristine Oleen, CAPA Milton Freewater, OR |
Michelle Reed, CPAN Claremont, CA |
Alison Walker, CPAN Athens, TN |
| Laura Williams, CPAN (Board Member) Gastonia, NC |
Vickie Yfantis, CPAN Olney, MD |
|
CAPA and CPAN Item Writing
Exam questions are written by practicing perianesthesia nurses who are also CPAN or CAPA certified. Interested in volunteering to write items/questions? Click here for more information on how to get involved.