When you place the Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS) or CCDS-Outpatient (CCDS-O) after your name, you can be proud of that accomplishment, and wear your new credential as a banner of your commitment to the wonderful profession of CDI.
 
ACDIS recruited a volunteer committee of experts committed to developing the best exams possible. It’s why the CCDS and CCDS-O credentials provide a mark of distinction for those working in the field. Employers look for this credential when screening applicants because they recognize the fact that the individual who bears it met both the prerequisites for sitting for the exam and, in passing the test, exhibits the capabilities to be effective in the role.
The process of preparation and sitting for the exam, no matter the result, makes you a stronger CDI professional.
 
Here are a few additional suggestions to help you succeed on exam day:

• Read each question in its entirety. Pay attention to every detail in the question.
• Read each question as if you had to answer it without choosing from a list of alternative answers, meaning try to answer the question first without looking at the list of choices.
• If you encounter a confusing question, or don’t know the answer, flag it and return to it later. Sometimes revisiting the question helps to clear the confusion.
• If you’re unsure of the correct answer, use the process of elimination to narrow down choices. Read every answer and eliminate those that are definitely wrong. Unfortunately, there’s no “phone-a-friend” option during the certification exams like there were on the “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” gameshow.
• Be sure to answer each question before ending the examination. There is no penalty for guessing.
• Use your available resources to check your answers as appropriate.
• Be mindful of the passing time and check your pacing. How many minutes do you have left? How many questions do you have left? When you practice, make note of which sections take you more time and adjust your pacing for the live test.