What is the CNA Certification Exam?

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam is the gateway to becoming a certified nursing assistant, assessing knowledge and skills essential to patient care.

The exam consists of two parts: a written or oral test with 70 multiple-choice questions and a skills demonstration test where candidates perform five assigned tasks. To pass, candidates must meet their state’s specific passing criteria, which typically require a score of 70% to 80% on the written/oral portion and a satisfactory rating on all five skills.

Successful certification allows individuals to work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities, supporting patients with daily activities, vital signs monitoring, and comfort measures. The CNA exam ensures that nursing assistants meet the required standards to provide safe and effective care as part of a healthcare team.

What Does the CNA Exam Cover?

The CNA exam evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills critical to nursing assistant roles. It is divided into two main components:

Written/Oral Test
This portion includes multiple-choice questions assessing three key domains:
Physical Care Skills (64%): Hygiene, nutrition, infection control, and basic nursing tasks.
Psychosocial Care Skills (10%): Addressing emotional, cultural, and mental health needs.
Role of the Nurse Aide (26%): Communication, legal and ethical behavior, and teamwork.

Skills Demonstration Test
Candidates perform five assigned tasks, including hand hygiene (mandatory) and four randomly selected skills, such as measuring vital signs, assisting with patient mobility, or providing personal care.

How to Prepare for the CNA Exam

Preparation is essential to succeed on the CNA exam. Here are some recommended strategies and resources:

Study Resources:
CNA Study Guide: Provides comprehensive lessons and practice questions.
CNA Flashcards: Break down complex topics for quick, on-the-go review.
CNA Online Course: Combines resources for an interactive and in-depth preparation experience.

Preparation Tips:
• Practice all 23 possible skills with an emphasis on critical steps.
• Take multiple mock exams to familiarize yourself with the test format.
• Use answer explanations to deepen your understanding of missed questions.
• Create a balanced study plan covering both theoretical and practical components.

FAQs

What happens if I fail the CNA exam?
Most states allow candidates up to three attempts to pass the exam. Only the failed portion (written/oral or skills) needs to be retaken.

How long does CNA certification last?
A CNA license is typically valid for 24 months, with some states requiring proof of employment during that time to maintain active certification.

How much does the CNA exam cost?
Exam fees vary by state but generally range from $80 to $100 for both sections.

Can I take the CNA exam online?
Yes, the written/oral portion can often be taken online, while the skills test is conducted in person. Check your state’s guidelines for details.

Featured Reviews

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