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Exam Content

Your Ultimate CNA exam Question Bank

1,340 questions across 3 subjects

SubjectQuestions
Physical Care Skills720
Psychosocial Care Skills237
Role of the Nurse Aid383

Students who passed with confidence

Join thousands of students who achieved their CNA goals with our platform.

AV

Aaliyah V.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I was a nervous wreck before the CNA exam 😅 I'd been a stay-at-home mom for 10 years and had zero medical background. A friend told me about AccelePrep.com and honestly, it was a lifesaver! The infection control modules were super detailed and the practice tests felt just like the real thing. I studied every night after putting my kids to bed for a month. When I passed with an 80%, I felt like I'd climbed a mountain 🏔️🎉 If you're doubting yourself like I was, just give AccelePrep a try. The material is so well-organized and the way they explain patient rights and safety procedures really stuck with me. I'm now working as a CNA and loving it! ❤️💪

AW

Aisha W.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I'll be honest—I failed the CNA exam the first time and felt horrible 😞. A coworker suggested AccelePrep for my retake, and wow, what a difference! The basic nursing skills section was a game-changer. I focused on the areas I struggled with, especially vital signs and range of motion exercises. The practice mode let me drill down until I got it right. I passed with a 79% on my second try and couldn't be happier 🎉💯 Do not give up if you failed! AccelePrep shows you exactly what you need to work on. The detailed explanations helped me understand my mistakes. I'm finally a CNA and proud of it! 🔥🙌

OC

Olga C.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

As a recent nursing school grad, I thought I'd breeze through the CNA exam, but the communication and legal/ethical stuff tripped me up 🙃. I found AccelePrep.com a week before my test and crammed like crazy. Their concise summaries and the mock exams were a blessing. I especially liked how they broke down the chain of command and residents' rights. I scored a 92% 🏆 which surprised even me! ✨ AccelePrep is perfect for anyone who needs a quick, effective review. I'd recommend it to all my classmates. It's straight to the point and doesn't waste your time. 📚💪

SS

Svetlana S.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Working full-time as a home health aide, I had limited time to study for the CNA exam 🥵. I'd come home from long shifts exhausted. A colleague let me borrow her AccelePrep account and it was a lifesaver! I studied on my phone during breaks and on weekends. The safety and emergency procedures section was detailed but easy to follow. I passed with 83% and honestly felt prepared for the job too 😊 If you're a busy professional like me, AccelePrep's mobile-friendly platform is a game-changer. The content is perfect for quick studies. Highly recommend! 💼🙏

IS

Ingrid S.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I was switching careers from retail to healthcare, so I had zero medical knowledge before starting CNA prep 🤯. AccelePrep.com helped me every step of the way. I spent about six weeks going through their entire curriculum. The patient care techniques, like proper turning and positioning, were explained so clearly. I also loved the practice questions—they really boosted my confidence. I ended up with a 75%, just barely passed, but a pass is a pass! 🎉😅 Don't be afraid if you're new to this field. AccelePrep builds your foundation from scratch. I'm now working as a CNA and absolutely love it. Life-changing! ❤️🚀

RP

Ryan P.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I've always been a terrible test-taker with major anxiety 😰. For the CNA exam, I knew I needed more than just reading books. AccelePrep's practice exams were exactly what I needed. They simulate the real test environment and I took them over and over until I felt comfortable. The nutrition and hydration topics were especially well covered. When I saw I passed with 86%, I almost fainted from relief 😂🙌 If you're stressed like I was, trust AccelePrep. The repetition really helps calm your nerves. It's not just about passing—it's about feeling ready. 💪✨

KV

Kenji V.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I studied for the CNA exam for two months while working part-time. I used AccelePrep.com and loved how they organized the content by subject. The elimination diets and feeding techniques were explained well, and I appreciated the tips on infection control. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is that I wished there were more video explanations, but the text was thorough. I passed with an 88% 📝📊 Still, AccelePrep is excellent value. The practice tests are realistic and the progress tracking helped me see where I needed improvement. I'd recommend it to anyone prepping for the CNA. 🎯

SG

Stephanie G.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I took a CNA class but felt unprepared for the state exam. AccelePrep filled in the gaps perfectly! I spent three weeks going through their materials, focusing on legal and ethical issues since that was my weak spot. The real-life scenarios they provided helped me understand how to apply the rules. I passed with a 91% and felt like a pro on the job 😎🏅 AccelePrep is a must for anyone who wants extra practice. It's like having a tutor in your pocket. I'm so glad I found it! 📱❤️

CR

Carlos R.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Between taking care of my toddler and working nights, I thought I'd never find time to study 😩. AccelePrep.com allowed me to squeeze in study sessions whenever I could. The short, focused lessons on catheter care and wound care were perfect for my fragmented schedule. I passed with 77%—just above passing—but I'm thrilled! 🎉😊 Don't let a busy life stop you. AccelePrep's flexible format makes it possible to study on your own time. I'm now a CNA and so grateful! 🙏💪

AG

Andrew G.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I was a restaurant manager for 15 years before deciding to become a CNA 🤗. Starting from scratch was scary, but AccelePrep broke everything down into digestible parts. The emergency procedures—like fire safety and choking response—were taught so vividly. I took detailed notes and did all the quizzes. I scored 84% on my first try and felt like I had a solid foundation for the job. 💼🏆 AccelePrep is perfect for career changers. It assumes no prior knowledge and builds you up. I highly recommend it to anyone starting fresh! 🌟🔥

AV

Aaliyah V.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I was a nervous wreck before the CNA exam 😅 I'd been a stay-at-home mom for 10 years and had zero medical background. A friend told me about AccelePrep.com and honestly, it was a lifesaver! The infection control modules were super detailed and the practice tests felt just like the real thing. I studied every night after putting my kids to bed for a month. When I passed with an 80%, I felt like I'd climbed a mountain 🏔️🎉 If you're doubting yourself like I was, just give AccelePrep a try. The material is so well-organized and the way they explain patient rights and safety procedures really stuck with me. I'm now working as a CNA and loving it! ❤️💪

AW

Aisha W.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I'll be honest—I failed the CNA exam the first time and felt horrible 😞. A coworker suggested AccelePrep for my retake, and wow, what a difference! The basic nursing skills section was a game-changer. I focused on the areas I struggled with, especially vital signs and range of motion exercises. The practice mode let me drill down until I got it right. I passed with a 79% on my second try and couldn't be happier 🎉💯 Do not give up if you failed! AccelePrep shows you exactly what you need to work on. The detailed explanations helped me understand my mistakes. I'm finally a CNA and proud of it! 🔥🙌

OC

Olga C.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

As a recent nursing school grad, I thought I'd breeze through the CNA exam, but the communication and legal/ethical stuff tripped me up 🙃. I found AccelePrep.com a week before my test and crammed like crazy. Their concise summaries and the mock exams were a blessing. I especially liked how they broke down the chain of command and residents' rights. I scored a 92% 🏆 which surprised even me! ✨ AccelePrep is perfect for anyone who needs a quick, effective review. I'd recommend it to all my classmates. It's straight to the point and doesn't waste your time. 📚💪

SS

Svetlana S.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Working full-time as a home health aide, I had limited time to study for the CNA exam 🥵. I'd come home from long shifts exhausted. A colleague let me borrow her AccelePrep account and it was a lifesaver! I studied on my phone during breaks and on weekends. The safety and emergency procedures section was detailed but easy to follow. I passed with 83% and honestly felt prepared for the job too 😊 If you're a busy professional like me, AccelePrep's mobile-friendly platform is a game-changer. The content is perfect for quick studies. Highly recommend! 💼🙏

IS

Ingrid S.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I was switching careers from retail to healthcare, so I had zero medical knowledge before starting CNA prep 🤯. AccelePrep.com helped me every step of the way. I spent about six weeks going through their entire curriculum. The patient care techniques, like proper turning and positioning, were explained so clearly. I also loved the practice questions—they really boosted my confidence. I ended up with a 75%, just barely passed, but a pass is a pass! 🎉😅 Don't be afraid if you're new to this field. AccelePrep builds your foundation from scratch. I'm now working as a CNA and absolutely love it. Life-changing! ❤️🚀

RP

Ryan P.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I've always been a terrible test-taker with major anxiety 😰. For the CNA exam, I knew I needed more than just reading books. AccelePrep's practice exams were exactly what I needed. They simulate the real test environment and I took them over and over until I felt comfortable. The nutrition and hydration topics were especially well covered. When I saw I passed with 86%, I almost fainted from relief 😂🙌 If you're stressed like I was, trust AccelePrep. The repetition really helps calm your nerves. It's not just about passing—it's about feeling ready. 💪✨

KV

Kenji V.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I studied for the CNA exam for two months while working part-time. I used AccelePrep.com and loved how they organized the content by subject. The elimination diets and feeding techniques were explained well, and I appreciated the tips on infection control. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is that I wished there were more video explanations, but the text was thorough. I passed with an 88% 📝📊 Still, AccelePrep is excellent value. The practice tests are realistic and the progress tracking helped me see where I needed improvement. I'd recommend it to anyone prepping for the CNA. 🎯

SG

Stephanie G.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I took a CNA class but felt unprepared for the state exam. AccelePrep filled in the gaps perfectly! I spent three weeks going through their materials, focusing on legal and ethical issues since that was my weak spot. The real-life scenarios they provided helped me understand how to apply the rules. I passed with a 91% and felt like a pro on the job 😎🏅 AccelePrep is a must for anyone who wants extra practice. It's like having a tutor in your pocket. I'm so glad I found it! 📱❤️

CR

Carlos R.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Between taking care of my toddler and working nights, I thought I'd never find time to study 😩. AccelePrep.com allowed me to squeeze in study sessions whenever I could. The short, focused lessons on catheter care and wound care were perfect for my fragmented schedule. I passed with 77%—just above passing—but I'm thrilled! 🎉😊 Don't let a busy life stop you. AccelePrep's flexible format makes it possible to study on your own time. I'm now a CNA and so grateful! 🙏💪

AG

Andrew G.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I was a restaurant manager for 15 years before deciding to become a CNA 🤗. Starting from scratch was scary, but AccelePrep broke everything down into digestible parts. The emergency procedures—like fire safety and choking response—were taught so vividly. I took detailed notes and did all the quizzes. I scored 84% on my first try and felt like I had a solid foundation for the job. 💼🏆 AccelePrep is perfect for career changers. It assumes no prior knowledge and builds you up. I highly recommend it to anyone starting fresh! 🌟🔥

PW

Patrick W.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a career changer—went from retail to healthcare at 42 😅. I studied for about six weeks using AccelePrep.com, mostly late at night after my shift. The Infection Control module was a lifesaver because I had zero medical background. The practice exams felt harder than the real thing, which actually made test day feel easier. I walked in nervous but passed with an 82% 🎯. Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can. AccelePrep broke everything down in a way that didn’t make me feel dumb, and I really appreciated the flashcards for legal and ethical issues. Five stars, no question.

AC

Aaliyah C.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a busy mom of three and I honestly thought I’d never find time to study 🙈. I squeezed in 20-minute sessions on AccelePrep while the kids were at practice or during nap time. The Basic Nursing Skills section was my weakness, but the videos on patient care procedures clicked for me. I passed with a 79%—just scraped by, but I’ll take it! 😂 The mock tests helped me see where I needed focus. AccelePrep made it possible to study in tiny chunks without feeling lost. Highly recommend if you’re juggling a million things like me.

LT

Lauren T.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Recent grad here 🎓, but I still wanted extra prep because the CNA exam is no joke. AccelePrep.com was my go-to for two weeks straight. I loved how they broke down Safety & Emergency Procedures—stuff like fire safety and choking responses came up a lot on the real test. The interface is super clean and easy to navigate, which helped when I was cramming. I ended up with a 91% 🏆 and felt totally prepared walking in. If you’re fresh out of school but still nervous, this will fill in those gaps.

JD

Jason D.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I failed the CNA exam the first time by two points 😤. It was heartbreaking because I’d studied on my own with a textbook. Then a coworker told me about AccelePrep. The difference? Realistic practice questions and detailed explanations—especially for Communication and Legal & Ethical Issues. I studied for about a month this time, focusing on my weak areas. Got a 76% on my second try 💪. It’s not a perfect score, but passing feels just as good. If you failed before, don’t give up; AccelePrep gives you the structure you need.

BS

Brittany S.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a nervous test-taker—like, hands shaking, brain fog nervous 😰. AccelePrep helped me calm down because their practice tests mimic the real timing and format. I went through the entire Patient Care section twice, and the step-by-step rationales made me feel like I actually understood the material instead of just memorizing. I scored an 85% 🙏 and honestly didn’t think I had it in me. The anxiety is real, but having a solid prep tool took the edge off. If you’re like me, use AccelePrep and take their timed quizzes until you feel ready.

HN

Hannah N.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Working 12-hour shifts as a dietary aide left me exhausted, but I knew I needed to level up. I used AccelePrep during my breaks and after work, maybe 30 minutes a day for three weeks. The Infection Control section was clutch—hand hygiene, PPE, and isolation precautions were all on the exam. I got a 78% 🔥, which is just over the 75% threshold, but I’ll take it. AccelePrep kept me from wasting time on stuff I already knew. It’s straightforward, and the mobile version is great for studying on the go.

GI

Grace I.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Switching from office work to healthcare felt like a leap of faith 🤞. I’d never even taken a biology class, so I was starting from scratch. AccelePrep.com got me ready in about five weeks. Their Basic Nursing Skills practice questions were super detailed, and I loved how they explained vital signs and mobility assistance. The exam had a lot on patient rights and ethical stuff, which I found surprisingly easy after AccelePrep’s lessons. I passed with an 88% ✨. Honestly, this platform made a scary career switch feel possible.

JD

Jonathan D.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m not gonna lie, I only studied for a week because I procrastinated big time 😬. AccelePrep’s crash course style saved me. I focused on Safety & Emergency Procedures and Infection Control because those seemed heavy on the test. The practice quizzes were tough but fair, and I liked that I could review wrong answers instantly. Ended up with a 75% exactly—barely passed, but a pass is a pass! 🎉 If you’re short on time, AccelePrep is your best bet. Just don’t wait until the last minute like me, lol.

TN

Trevor N.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a retired military medic trying to get back into healthcare, and I’ll admit I was overconfident at first 😅. The CNA exam has a ton of legal and ethical stuff that I forgot about. AccelePrep’s module on patient confidentiality and advance directives was spot-on for what showed up. I studied for two weeks and scored a 93% 💯. Their content is comprehensive but not overwhelming. If you have experience but need a refresher, this is the way to go. I’m glad I didn’t wing it.

DV

Diana V.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

As someone who’s always struggled with multiple-choice tests, the CNA felt like a mountain. I used AccelePrep for about four weeks, and I swear their question bank is magic 🔮. The Patient Care section was my biggest fear, but the scenario-based questions helped me think like a nurse assistant. I passed with an 80% 😊. I still can’t believe I actually did it. AccelePrep’s interface made studying less intimidating, and the progress tracker kept me motivated. Worth every penny!

PW

Patrick W.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a career changer—went from retail to healthcare at 42 😅. I studied for about six weeks using AccelePrep.com, mostly late at night after my shift. The Infection Control module was a lifesaver because I had zero medical background. The practice exams felt harder than the real thing, which actually made test day feel easier. I walked in nervous but passed with an 82% 🎯. Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can. AccelePrep broke everything down in a way that didn’t make me feel dumb, and I really appreciated the flashcards for legal and ethical issues. Five stars, no question.

AC

Aaliyah C.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a busy mom of three and I honestly thought I’d never find time to study 🙈. I squeezed in 20-minute sessions on AccelePrep while the kids were at practice or during nap time. The Basic Nursing Skills section was my weakness, but the videos on patient care procedures clicked for me. I passed with a 79%—just scraped by, but I’ll take it! 😂 The mock tests helped me see where I needed focus. AccelePrep made it possible to study in tiny chunks without feeling lost. Highly recommend if you’re juggling a million things like me.

LT

Lauren T.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Recent grad here 🎓, but I still wanted extra prep because the CNA exam is no joke. AccelePrep.com was my go-to for two weeks straight. I loved how they broke down Safety & Emergency Procedures—stuff like fire safety and choking responses came up a lot on the real test. The interface is super clean and easy to navigate, which helped when I was cramming. I ended up with a 91% 🏆 and felt totally prepared walking in. If you’re fresh out of school but still nervous, this will fill in those gaps.

JD

Jason D.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I failed the CNA exam the first time by two points 😤. It was heartbreaking because I’d studied on my own with a textbook. Then a coworker told me about AccelePrep. The difference? Realistic practice questions and detailed explanations—especially for Communication and Legal & Ethical Issues. I studied for about a month this time, focusing on my weak areas. Got a 76% on my second try 💪. It’s not a perfect score, but passing feels just as good. If you failed before, don’t give up; AccelePrep gives you the structure you need.

BS

Brittany S.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a nervous test-taker—like, hands shaking, brain fog nervous 😰. AccelePrep helped me calm down because their practice tests mimic the real timing and format. I went through the entire Patient Care section twice, and the step-by-step rationales made me feel like I actually understood the material instead of just memorizing. I scored an 85% 🙏 and honestly didn’t think I had it in me. The anxiety is real, but having a solid prep tool took the edge off. If you’re like me, use AccelePrep and take their timed quizzes until you feel ready.

HN

Hannah N.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Working 12-hour shifts as a dietary aide left me exhausted, but I knew I needed to level up. I used AccelePrep during my breaks and after work, maybe 30 minutes a day for three weeks. The Infection Control section was clutch—hand hygiene, PPE, and isolation precautions were all on the exam. I got a 78% 🔥, which is just over the 75% threshold, but I’ll take it. AccelePrep kept me from wasting time on stuff I already knew. It’s straightforward, and the mobile version is great for studying on the go.

GI

Grace I.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

Switching from office work to healthcare felt like a leap of faith 🤞. I’d never even taken a biology class, so I was starting from scratch. AccelePrep.com got me ready in about five weeks. Their Basic Nursing Skills practice questions were super detailed, and I loved how they explained vital signs and mobility assistance. The exam had a lot on patient rights and ethical stuff, which I found surprisingly easy after AccelePrep’s lessons. I passed with an 88% ✨. Honestly, this platform made a scary career switch feel possible.

JD

Jonathan D.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m not gonna lie, I only studied for a week because I procrastinated big time 😬. AccelePrep’s crash course style saved me. I focused on Safety & Emergency Procedures and Infection Control because those seemed heavy on the test. The practice quizzes were tough but fair, and I liked that I could review wrong answers instantly. Ended up with a 75% exactly—barely passed, but a pass is a pass! 🎉 If you’re short on time, AccelePrep is your best bet. Just don’t wait until the last minute like me, lol.

TN

Trevor N.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

I’m a retired military medic trying to get back into healthcare, and I’ll admit I was overconfident at first 😅. The CNA exam has a ton of legal and ethical stuff that I forgot about. AccelePrep’s module on patient confidentiality and advance directives was spot-on for what showed up. I studied for two weeks and scored a 93% 💯. Their content is comprehensive but not overwhelming. If you have experience but need a refresher, this is the way to go. I’m glad I didn’t wing it.

DV

Diana V.

CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant)

As someone who’s always struggled with multiple-choice tests, the CNA felt like a mountain. I used AccelePrep for about four weeks, and I swear their question bank is magic 🔮. The Patient Care section was my biggest fear, but the scenario-based questions helped me think like a nurse assistant. I passed with an 80% 😊. I still can’t believe I actually did it. AccelePrep’s interface made studying less intimidating, and the progress tracker kept me motivated. Worth every penny!

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is one of the fastest ways to begin a career in healthcare. CNAs play a vital role in patient care by assisting with daily living activities, monitoring patients, communicating with nurses, and helping ensure patients receive safe and compassionate care. Before you can become certified, you'll need to pass your state's CNA competency examination.

Preparing with realistic practice questions is one of the most effective ways to increase your confidence and improve your chances of passing on your first attempt. At AccelerPrep, our free CNA practice tests are designed to help you master the concepts commonly tested on the written examination while preparing you for the clinical skills evaluation.

Our practice tests include hundreds of exam-style questions, detailed answer explanations, unlimited attempts, and subject-specific quizzes that help you identify weak areas before exam day. Whether you're preparing for your first certification attempt or studying for a retake, consistent practice will help you feel more prepared and confident.


What Is the CNA Exam?

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam is a competency examination required by most U.S. states before an individual can work as a nursing assistant. The examination measures whether candidates possess the knowledge, judgment, and practical skills necessary to provide safe patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses.

Unlike many certification exams that focus only on written knowledge, the CNA exam evaluates both theoretical understanding and hands-on clinical ability.

Most state exams include:

  • A written (or oral) multiple-choice examination
  • A clinical skills examination

The written exam tests your understanding of patient care principles, infection prevention, communication, safety, ethics, anatomy, and nursing procedures. The clinical portion requires you to demonstrate several patient-care skills while being observed by an evaluator.

Although every state establishes its own certification requirements, many participate in the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®), making the testing process similar across much of the United States.


Who Should Take the CNA Exam?

The CNA certification exam is intended for individuals who have completed a state-approved nursing assistant training program and wish to become licensed to work in healthcare settings.

Certified Nursing Assistants commonly work in:

  • Hospitals
  • Nursing homes
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Assisted living communities
  • Hospice organizations
  • Home healthcare agencies

Many future Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) begin their healthcare careers as CNAs because the role provides valuable patient care experience before entering advanced nursing programs.


CNA Exam Eligibility Requirements

Before scheduling your certification examination, you'll need to meet your state's eligibility requirements.

Most states require candidates to:

  • Complete a state-approved CNA training program.
  • Successfully finish the required classroom instruction.
  • Complete supervised clinical training hours.
  • Submit the required application.
  • Pay applicable examination fees.
  • Meet state-specific background check or fingerprint requirements where applicable.

Some states also recognize alternative eligibility pathways, including military medical training, reciprocity from another state, or qualifying healthcare experience.

Because certification requirements vary, always review your state's Candidate Handbook before registering.

Official Resource: https://help.credentia.com/en/article/candidate-handbook


How to Register for the CNA Exam

The registration process differs by state, but the overall process is generally straightforward.

Step 1

Complete your CNA training program.

Step 2

Submit your examination application through your state's testing provider.

Step 3

Provide any required supporting documentation.

Step 4

Pay the examination fee.

Step 5

Schedule your written examination and clinical skills evaluation.

Many states use testing providers such as Credentia or Pearson VUE, although some have their own testing systems.

Official Registration Information:

https://kb-casouth.credentia.com/en/article/application-and-scheduling


CNA Exam Format

Although requirements differ slightly from state to state, most certification exams follow a similar format.

FeatureDetails
Exam TypeWritten (or Oral) + Clinical Skills
Question FormatMultiple Choice
Clinical EvaluationHands-on patient care
Testing TimeVaries by state
Passing ScoreDetermined by individual state
CertificationState Nurse Aide Registry

CNA Written Exam Subjects

The written examination evaluates your understanding of the knowledge needed to provide safe, compassionate, and effective patient care.

Basic Nursing Skills

This section focuses on the routine responsibilities performed by nursing assistants. Questions commonly cover taking vital signs, recording patient observations, measuring intake and output, positioning patients, assisting with mobility, documenting care, and following proper nursing procedures.


Infection Prevention and Control

Preventing infections is one of the CNA's most important responsibilities.

Expect questions covering:

  • Hand hygiene
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Standard precautions
  • Transmission-based precautions
  • Cleaning equipment
  • Preventing cross-contamination
  • Safe disposal of contaminated materials

Safety and Emergency Procedures

Patient safety is emphasized throughout the examination.

Common topics include:

  • Fall prevention
  • Fire safety
  • Emergency response
  • Wheelchair safety
  • Bed safety
  • Proper body mechanics
  • Safe patient transfers

Personal Care Skills

CNAs assist patients with everyday activities while preserving dignity and independence.

Questions may cover:

  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming
  • Oral hygiene
  • Toileting
  • Feeding
  • Skin care
  • Hair care

Mental Health and Social Needs

This section evaluates your ability to provide compassionate care while respecting emotional and psychological needs.

Topics include:

  • Dementia care
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Communication techniques
  • Promoting independence
  • Respecting patient choices

Communication Skills

Strong communication improves patient outcomes and reduces medical errors.

Questions often include:

  • Therapeutic communication
  • Active listening
  • Reporting changes in condition
  • Documentation
  • Communication with healthcare teams
  • Cultural sensitivity

Resident Rights

Every CNA must understand patients' legal rights.

Common topics include:

  • Privacy
  • Confidentiality
  • Informed consent
  • Respect
  • Freedom from abuse
  • Patient dignity
  • Right to refuse treatment

Basic Anatomy and Physiology

Although less detailed than nursing school entrance exams, you'll still need a basic understanding of the human body.

Topics include:

  • Major body systems
  • Common diseases
  • Aging process
  • Nutrition
  • Hydration
  • Normal body functions

Clinical Skills You May Be Tested On

The clinical examination evaluates your ability to safely perform patient-care procedures.

Depending on your state, you'll usually demonstrate five randomly selected skills.

Commonly tested skills include:

  • Handwashing
  • Measuring blood pressure
  • Measuring pulse
  • Measuring respirations
  • Recording urinary output
  • Assisting with ambulation
  • Using a gait belt
  • Positioning patients
  • Feeding a patient
  • Oral care
  • Denture care
  • Making an occupied bed
  • Measuring weight
  • Range-of-motion exercises
  • Catheter care
  • Perineal care
  • Transferring patients

Evaluators score each step individually, making proper technique just as important as completing the task.


What to Bring on Exam Day

Before leaving for your testing center, make sure you have everything required by your testing provider.

Most testing centers require:

  • Government-issued photo identification
  • Secondary identification (if required)
  • Confirmation email or admission letter
  • Required testing documents

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for performing clinical skills.

Avoid bringing personal items unless specifically permitted by the testing center.


What Happens on Test Day?

After arriving at the testing center, staff will verify your identification and explain the testing procedures.

The written exam is typically completed first, although this varies by testing center.

During the written examination:

  • Read each question carefully.
  • Eliminate incorrect answers before selecting your response.
  • Pace yourself throughout the exam.
  • Review your answers if time permits.

The clinical skills evaluation usually follows.

During the skills test, you'll perform several assigned nursing assistant procedures while an evaluator observes your performance.

Remember to:

  • Wash your hands properly.
  • Explain each procedure to the patient.
  • Protect patient privacy.
  • Use proper infection control.
  • Maintain patient safety.
  • Complete every critical step.

Many candidates lose points by forgetting simple safety procedures rather than misunderstanding the skill itself.


How Is the CNA Exam Scored?

Both portions of the examination are scored separately.

To become certified, candidates generally must pass:

  • The written examination
  • The clinical skills evaluation

Failing one portion usually means you only need to retake that section, although retake limits vary by state.

Official score reporting timelines differ, with some candidates receiving preliminary results shortly after testing while official certification may take several days or weeks.


Recommended Study Plan

Preparing over several weeks allows you to build confidence while avoiding burnout.

WeekStudy Plan
Week 1Basic Nursing Skills
Week 2Infection Control & Safety
Week 3Personal Care & Communication
Week 4Resident Rights & Mental Health
Week 5Clinical Skills Practice
Week 6Full-Length Practice Tests

Study consistently rather than trying to memorize everything during the final few days.


Tips for Passing the CNA Exam

Successful candidates focus on both knowledge and practical skills.

Some of the most effective preparation strategies include:

  • Complete practice questions every day.
  • Review every answer explanation.
  • Practice clinical skills with a classmate or instructor.
  • Memorize critical infection-control procedures.
  • Learn the order of each clinical skill.
  • Study patient safety throughout every topic.
  • Take full-length timed practice exams.
  • Get enough sleep before exam day.

Most importantly, don't rush during the clinical evaluation. Performing each skill carefully and following every required step is often more important than finishing quickly.


Why Practice with AccelerPrep?

AccelerPrep was built to help healthcare students prepare efficiently using realistic exam-style questions.

Our CNA practice tests include:

  • Hundreds of realistic questions
  • Detailed answer explanations
  • Unlimited practice attempts
  • Mobile-friendly quizzes
  • Subject-based practice exams
  • Full-length mock exams
  • Progress tracking
  • Regularly updated content

Whether you're reviewing infection control, practicing resident rights questions, or preparing for the clinical skills exam, AccelerPrep gives you the tools you need to study smarter.

Official Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding eligibility, registration, testing locations, fees, and certification, consult your state's official testing provider.


Start Your CNA Exam Preparation Today

Passing the CNA exam is the first step toward a meaningful healthcare career. By combining consistent study with realistic practice questions and hands-on skills review, you'll be well prepared for both the written and clinical portions of the certification exam.

Start with a diagnostic practice test, focus on your weakest subjects, review every explanation carefully, and continue practicing until you feel confident. With the right preparation and a structured study plan, you'll be ready to earn your CNA certification and begin making a difference in patients' lives.

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