The Test

The certification test has been developed to have two versions, an "A" and a "B" test. Both of these tests are of comparable difficulty. Both versions include some same, similar, and different questions. The questions (or items) are a percentage match with the original Job-and-Task Analysis conducted with representatives of small, medium, and large healthcare facilities. Those representatives, working in the capacity of Healthcare Maintenance Mechanics, were instrumental in developing both the structure of the test and the selection of questions.

 

Mechanics wishing to be Certified will take the same test as those wishing to be Senior Certified. Cut-scores are used to differentiate between Certified and Senior Certified test scores (see the explanation for Cut-Scores). The passing cut-score is higher forthe Senior Certified designation.

 

Test Questions (Items)

 

Working healthcare mechanics developed all test questions (or items). As the items were developed, they were compiled into a test form and sent for piloting in healthcare facilities with working (incumbent) mechanics. These facilities and mechanics volunteered their time to validate each of the test questions. Those questions not meeting the standards for validation were removed or repaired and validated with another working group of mechanics.

 

Test questions were developed in each of eight (8), essential areas of Healthcare Mechanic work. Each of the eight categories is weighted as to the importance of each to the whole job of the mechanic. Questions on the test are representative of these percentages and vary in number accordingly.

 

Because these questions are validated and the answers to each, held in confidence, no question will be discussed in general or specifically. No answer will be discussed as being right or wrong. All test candidates will be afforded the same chance to receive a passing score, with the understanding that no one who has taken or administered the test knows the answer to any specific question. MECH officials or Test Administrators will not entertain discussion of test questions. It has to be understood that these are validated, national test questions. To discuss the questions or possible answers is to jeopardize the validity of the test.

 

Scoring

 

Scoring of the test is conducted with an independent test scoring facility. The scoring facility develops all individual, group, state, and national data from each test that is scored. All pertinent scoring information needed to determine passing scores are forwarded to MECH offices. No information is to be passed by or from our scoring facility.  Scoring information sent to each individual gives comparisons in eight (8) categories. These comparisons can be made with his/her testing group as well as their state/association and the national normative data. This gives each candidate prescriptive information to use to improve knowledge in any of the eight categories.

 

MECH is capable of verifying an individual's passing status, i.e. Certified or Senior Certified. MECH will not discuss or deliver, scoring information specific to an individual, their scores, categories or questions missed. This information is not available at the MECH office

 

Cut-Scores

 

Cut scores are used to determine if a candidate has received a passing score. Cut-scores can be understood as a specific number or score that must be met to attain the certificate level; in much the same way as a high jumper either goes over the bar or knocks it down.

 

The test scoring facility provides data to MECH, where each candidate's score is compared to the cut-score. If the candidate has met or exceeded the cut-score, a Certificate is prepared.

 

Individuals must meet one of two standards to take the test. For Certified status, the candidate must provide proof that he/she has had a minimum of two (2) years of work experience as a Healthcare Mechanic and a "certified" cut-score on the test. For Senior Certified status, the candidate must provide proof that he/she has had a minimum of four (4) years of work experience as a Healthcare Mechanic and a higher, "senior certified" cut-score on the test.