BLS Psychomotor Test Process for Legal Recognition, Reentry, & Challenge Candidates

A new BLS Psychomotor Skill Verification Process for Legal Recognition, Reentry & Challenge Candidates issued by the Office of EMS began on January 1, 2023. Candidates will need to have their psychomotor competency verified by an Education Coordinator who is affiliated with a fire-based EMS system, accredited training program, or Regional EMS Council.

Legal Recognition

An individual possessing up-to-date EMS certifications from ANY state or U.S. territory who seeks certification specifically at the EMT level in Virginia.

Reentry

A span of two years during which a provider, whose certification in Virginia has expired, can fulfill any outstanding continuing education requirements and undergo testing to restore their certification.

Challenge

Upon the completion of all prerequisites, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), Physician Associates (PAs), and Military Corpsmen are eligible to take the EMT exam.

The Process

The process of registering for and taking the psychomotor exam begins with candidates identifying the appropriate pathway based on the categories mentioned above, each of which comes with specific prerequisites that might need to be fulfilled before taking the exam.

To initiate the process, candidates are required to register and make payment for the exam using the provided Registration Form.

On the day of the exam, candidates are advised to arrive at least 10 minutes ahead of the scheduled time.

During the exam, candidates will participate in two scenarios, each lasting approximately 15 minutes.

Following the completion of the exam, candidates can expect to receive an email containing their exam results within five (5) business days from the Virginia Office of EMS.

Testing Personnel

Evaluator – This person is tasked with introducing the scenario to the candidate and evaluating their performance. They undergo training to understand the role’s requirements and expected behavior.

Professional EMT Partner – This person will hold EMT certification or higher and provides assistance to the candidate as needed, whether with skills or patient care. They will complete all tasks assigned to them by the candidate Attendant in Charge correctly.

Patient – The goal of the moulaged mock patient is to create a realistic environment that challenges candidates’ critical thinking, communication, and patient care skills. They will have mock injuries applied to their body using makeup, prosthetics, and other materials. These injuries could include wounds, burns, fractures, and other medical conditions. The actor will interact with the candidate or responder as a real patient would. They may provide information about their symptoms, medical history, and how they feel. They may also exhibit pain or discomfort based on the nature of their injuries. The mock patient will also communicate with the candidate, conveying their symptoms, medical history, and any concerns they might have.

Scenario Information

The candidate shall complete two scenarios consisting of:

One fifteen (15) minute scenario comprised of a medical topic
One fifteen (15) minute scenario comprised of a trauma topic

Each scenario has mandatory actions that the candidates are required to complete. The candidate should assume the role of the AIC (Attendant in Charge) for the call and will need to engage physically with both the patient and EMT partner. Practical equipment will be accessible for hands-on skill demonstration. While candidates must verbally outline their patient movement strategies, there is no expectation for them to physically lift the patient.

Equipment Information

The following list of equipment is what will be provided for each scenario.

JumpBag

Different sized BP cuffs
Stethoscope
Pen light
Glucometer
Pulse Ox
NPA (various sizes)
OPA (various sizes)
Adult & PED NC
Adult & PED NRB
Laerdal Suction Unit 300ml w/ rigid suction catheter and tubing
Bandaging material
Trauma dressings
Tape
CAT tourniquet
Quick-Clot packing

Cardiac Monitor (iSimulate)

Obtain a 12 lead
Electrodes

Medications (Simulated)

Albuterol
Aspiriin
Nitroglycerin
Oral Glucose

Immobilization Equipment

C-Collars (Adult & PED)
Backboard w/ headbed
Spider straps
Rigid splint boards
Cravats

Testing Attempts

Initial (First Attempt)

The Virginia Psychomotor Skills Verification shall consist of the following:

One fifteen (15) minute scenario comprised of a medical topic known as IOOH – Medical
One fifteen (15) minute scenario comprised of a medical topic known as IOOH – Trauma

If both scenarios are passed on the first attempt the candidate passes. If the candidate fails one or both scenarios, they will move to Retest One. The candidate will be notified of the results by e-mail from the Office of EMS within five (5) days of the test. The candidate will not be alerted if they passed or failed by any personnel at the test site and no same-day retests will be allowed.

Retest One (Second Attempt)

If one, or both scenarios, are failed on the initial test, the candidate will be eligible for a second attempt. That attempt will consist of both scenarios with the candidate not being guaranteed the same scenarios from their first attempt.

If both scenarios are passed on the second attempt the candidate passes. If the candidate fails one or both scenarios, they will move to Retest Two. The candidate will be notified of this by e-mail from the Office of EMS within five (5) days of the test. The candidate will not be alerted if they passed or failed by any personnel at the test site and no same-day retests will be allowed.

Retest Two (Third Attempt)

If one, or both scenarios, are failed on the second attempt, the candidate will be eligible for a third and final attempt. That attempt will consist of both scenarios with the candidate not being guaranteed the same scenarios from their first or second attempt.

If both scenarios are passed on the third attempt the candidate passes. If the candidate fails one or both scenarios, the candidate will be considered as failing and will be required to retake an EMR or EMT program in order to re/gain certification in Virginia. The candidate will be notified of this by e-mail from the Office of EMS within five (5) days of the test. The candidate will not be alerted if they passed or failed by any personnel at the test site and no same-day retests will be allowed.

Documents and Forms

VA Competency-Based Psychomotor Scenario Evaluation

BLS Psychomotor Competency Verification Guidance for Legal Recognition, Reentry, & Challenge

Sample Patient Assessment Form

FAQs

Why can’t ODEMSA tell me if I passed or failed on the day I take the test?

There are a few reasons why score results are not released on the same day:
Scoring and Evaluation: Due to the complexity of the test and the skills being evaluated, it takes some time to accurately score and evaluate each candidate’s performance. This ensures that the results are fair and consistent.
Quality Assurance: To maintain the integrity of the testing process, there is a thorough quality assurance review in place. ODEMSA works with the Virginia Office of EMS to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable.
Documentation: Accurate documentation of the results, along with any feedback provided, requires time to ensure that the records are complete and accurate.
Security and Privacy: ODEMSA administers and scores the tests however, ultimately they are sent to the Office of EMS for final review and pass/fail determination.
Appeals and Review: Candidates have the right to appeal or request a review of the testing process. The students are given the option to grieve the test before leaving the site for things such as unsafe testing processes, evaluator bias, or inappropriate actions by the evaluator, EMT assist, or mock patient. Allowing time between taking the test and receiving the results provides a window for such processes to take place and mitigates retaliation from a candidate who receives unfavorable result.

Why am I unable to complete a retest on the same day?

ODEMSA has to apply for the scenarios to the Office Of EMS and are only given one medical and one trauma IOOH for each student. As such we only have one of each scenario on the day of the test.

Why does the test cost what it does?

It’s important to note that the cost of a test is typically reflective of the resources and efforts required to develop, administer, and evaluate the assessment accurately..
Administrative Expenses: The process of organizing, administering, and managing a test involves administrative costs, such as staff salaries, equipment maintenance, and logistical arrangements.
Evaluator Expertise: These tests require qualified evaluators who are knowledgeable and experienced in assessing specific skills. The expertise of these evaluators can contribute to the overall cost.
Quality Assurance: Ensuring the quality and consistency of the testing process involves additional resources. This includes training evaluators, conducting standardization sessions, and implementing quality control measures.
Materials and Equipment: There are costs associated with providing the necessary materials, equipment, and resources to conduct the test effectively.
Technology and Infrastructure: There are costs related to the online registration process and the software used to track all aspects of the actual testing day. This includes costs related to technology infrastructure, software development, and maintenance.

Who will be in the room with me when I test?

1. Evaluator: A qualified evaluator, who is trained and experienced in assessing the specific skills being tested, will be present to observe and evaluate your performance. These evaluators will determine whether you meet the required standards for the skills being tested by using the Virginia Office of EMS Competency-based Scenario Evaluation Form.
2. EMT Partner:
2. Mock Patient: This role involves a moulaged actor who has familiarized themselves with the scenario and will enact it. They receive training on the role’s requirements and behavior expectations such as moaning in pain when touched in a simulated injured area.

How are the scenarios designed and does anyone vet them?

The Virginia Office of EMS possesses a pool of scenarios tailored for the EMT assessment competency verification. These scenarios have undergone thorough review and received approval for utilization from the state Medical Director.

Will I be expected to lift or carry a patient?

No, candidates are not required to physically lift or carry a patient during the competency verification. However, candidates should be capable of explaining the proper techniques and methods for safely moving a patient when required. The assessment is focused on the understanding and knowledge of patient movement procedures and equipment rather than the actual physical lifting.

What are the medications if they are not real?

The medications used for assessment purposes are simulated using either normal saline solution or sugar tablets. During the exam, you will have the opportunity to administer these simulated medications to a patient who has been briefed before the examination. These simulated medications are employed to evaluate your ability to correctly handle medication administration scenarios without using actual pharmaceuticals.

What does moulage mean?

Moulage refers to the art of applying mock injuries using makeup, props, and other materials to simulate real medical conditions.