RESNA has ‘nice package’ of updates

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – RESNA is going into 2023 with an updated exam for its assistive technology professional (ATP) credential and an updated code of conduct and standards of practice. 

The biggest update to the exam: a greater percentage of questions about the evaluation process, says Andrea Van Hook, executive director of RESNA. 

“It’s not just about providing equipment, fitting it properly and training (the patient and caregiver) on how to use it, but also checking back in with them down the road,” she said. “We want to make sure the equipment is helping the person reach their goals.”  

The updated exam outline, which incorporates the results of a Job Analysis Survey launched earlier in 2022, is now available on the RESNA website. The exam will be offered starting Jan. 1 for $100 off to the first 100 applicants, as an acknowledgement that they will have to wait until March to get their results, in order for RESNA to set a passing score.  

There is also an enhanced focus on professional ethics, which is now woven throughout the exam, rather than included as a few separate questions. 

“Ethics is an expectation from start to finish,” said Julie Piriano, chair of RESNA’s Professional Standards Board. “So instead of separate questions, ethics is now built into the scenarios that are part of the questions.”  

Another update includes emphasizing a “best practice model of service delivery” in lieu of funding, Piriano says. 

“You have to be mindful of funding, but it shouldn’t drive practice,” she said. “In addition, we wanted to make it relevant for all of North America, and not exclusively U.S.-centric.”   

In addition to the updated exam, RESNA also has updated its code of conduct and standards of practice, which apply to ATPs certifying and renewing their certification as of Jan. 1, 2023. Nearly 100 subject matter experts were involved in updating the document. 

“Hardly anything has changed, but we hope that people find the updated code of conduct and standards of practice more organized and clear,” said Liz Dombrowski, certification manager for RESNA. “With both the updated ATP exam and the updated code of conduct, it’s a really nice package.”