Clinical Patient Management (CPM) Exam Candidate Orientation Manual

Exam Site

You will be at the exam site for approximately four and a half hours, or up to six hours if you’ve been approved for Testing Accommodations. The Orthotic CPM Experience Video and the Prosthetic CPM Experience Video offers a visual of what to expect during the exam.

Lockers and Personal Belongings

Lockers are available at the exam site for your convenience. Your candidate liaison will assist you with using a locker to store all personal items you bring. 

Do not bring any study materials to the exam site.

If you have luggage with you, it can be stored securely in the Candidate Lounge.

All digital devices must be securely stored in your designated locker during all portions of the exam, including breaks.

Note: If you require a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) and need access to your phone during the CPM exam, you must provide a doctor’s note and receive prior approval from ABC. Any other accommodation must be approved by ABC in advance (e.g., nursing mothers need for a private space, etc.)

Snacks and Refreshments

Complimentary snacks such as chips, fruit, trail mix, and bottled water will be available in the Candidate Lounge. 

You are welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages; however, please note that all items will be subject to inspection upon arrival.

Check-in and Orientation

Please arrive on time for your scheduled appointment. The check-in process begins promptly at your designated time, and late arrivals may not be permitted to test.

Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport), which will be verified by an ABC staff member during check-in. Dress in a neat and professional manner. Shorts, jeans, scrubs and open-toe shoes are not permitted.

Your exam will begin with a 20-minute orientation session covering exam policies and format.  

Exam Modules

Both the Orthotic and Prosthetic CPM exams consist of three modules, each lasting 60 minutes, or 90 minutes for candidates approved for Testing Accommodations. These modules will begin immediately following the orientation. 

Be sure to review the Orthotic Tool List and the  Prosthetic Tool List to familiarize yourself with the tools and supplies available to you at each exam, as you will not be able to use your own tools and supplies.

The Prosthetic CPM exam covers: 

• Transtibial
• Transfemoral
• Troubleshooting

The Orthotic CPM exam covers:

• Lower Extremity
• Spinal
• AFO Management

After you finish your exam, it takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete the necessary protocols to release you from the exam site. You will spend this time, and any down time during the exam, in the Candidate Lounge.

Exam Site Personnel

The CPM Administration Committee is comprised of:

• Site Coordinator—a certified practitioner who manages the overall on-site administration and management of the exam. 
• Auditors—two certified practitioners who review the scoring of each exam before they are submitted for final scoring by the testing agency. 
• Candidate Liaison—a member of the committee who is critical to the exam process and to the candidates by mediating problems or concerns addressed to the Site Coordinator. The Candidate Liaison has been selected for their professional commitment, personal demeanor and effective communication skills. While the Candidate Liaison may act as the mediator or advocate for candidates during the exam process, their role is limited to resolution of any administrative incidents as they are not involved in exam development and cannot negotiate or validate exam format, content or any other issues. 
• Examiners—practitioners certified a minimum of three years who are selected for their commitment to the profession, personal demeanor, professional reputation and expertise. Each examiner has successfully completed the Examiner Training program and has demonstrated their ability to examine objectively and efficiently. 
• ABC Staff—are on-site to assist in the administration and logistics of the exam as well as ensuring that candidates, patient models and examiners adhere to their respective schedules. 
• ABC Visitors—at times visitors may be invited to observe portions of the exam. They will always be escorted by staff or a committee member. If you feel uncomfortable with observers, you can request that they not be present during your exam modules. Please do not hesitate to make this request of your examiner, ABC staff or a committee member.
• Patient Models—Individuals who act as your patient model during the exam and who have been trained on appropriate interaction with candidates. These individuals are essential to the administration of the exams.