The Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN) designation validates your advanced expertise in nephrology nursing. Earning your CDN certification requires passing a rigorous exam administered by the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC). Our comprehensive CDN exam review provides the tools you need to succeed.
This guide includes a free Certified Dialysis Nurse practice test, detailed dialysis nurse certification requirements, and essential study tips. Whether you are pursuing hemodialysis nurse certification or advancing your career, mastering these CDN exam concepts is critical.
Success on the CDN exam requires a deep understanding of hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and patient care. Our CDN study guide breaks down complex nephrology topics into manageable sections. Practice with the free CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (7 questions with answer explanations).
Facts verified Oct 19, 2026 against Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | 150 multiple-choice questions (about 25 unscored pilot items) | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Time limit | 3 hours | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Passing score | About 74% correct | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Exam fee | $350 ($300 for ANNA/ASN/NKF/NOVA members) | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Retake policy | One reduced-rate retake within 1 year | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Validity | 3 years | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Delivery | Computer-based test at a testing center (via C-NET) | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Eligibility | Unrestricted RN license + 2,500 in-center hemodialysis RN hours in 2 years + 30 nephrology CE hours | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Score release | Immediately on completion | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Registration deadline | Year-round; postmark at least 4 weeks before desired test date | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
| Testing window | 90 days from permit issue (one 90-day extension for $125) | Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission |
Facts verified Oct 19, 2026 against Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
Interactive CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
Prepare for the CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
Study key concepts for your dialysis nurse certification.
Our CDN study guide covers essential topics. Understanding the test format and requirements is the first step toward becoming a Certified Dialysis Nurse.
Focus on the CDN exam blueprint provided by NNCC. Pay special attention to water treatment standards and vascular access complications, as these are high-frequency topics on the hemodialysis nurse certification test.
Estimated score calculation
Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)
Your Score: 88 correct ✓ PASS
Plan for a total investment of approximately $400-$500 for your CDN certification, including the exam fee and preparation materials. Membership in the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA) can reduce exam costs.
Earning your CDN certification opens doors to specialized roles in nephrology.
Join thousands of nurses who have passed their CDN exam using our comprehensive practice resources.
Maintaining your CDN certification requires renewal every three years. You must meet continuing education and practice hour requirements.
Keep track of your CE credits and practice hours. You can renew your CDN certification online through the NNCC website up to six months before expiration.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Validates your knowledge and skills objectively | Study materials can be expensive |
| Increases job market competitiveness | Exam anxiety can affect performance |
| Provides structured learning goals | Requires dedicated preparation time |
| Networking opportunities with other certified professionals | Retake fees apply if you don't pass |
Try these questions from our free CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
A patient's pre-dialysis BUN is 80 mg/dL and post-dialysis BUN is 28 mg/dL. What is the urea reduction ratio (URR)?
Answer: C. 65%
URR = [(Pre-BUN − Post-BUN) / Pre-BUN] × 100 = [(80−28)/80] × 100 = 65%, which meets the minimum recommended threshold of 65%.
What is the recommended target URR for hemodialysis patients according to current guidelines?
Answer: C. ≥65%
Current guidelines recommend a minimum URR of 65% for hemodialysis patients, corresponding to an spKt/V of approximately 1.2.
Which of the following is a contraindication to using a tunneled dialysis catheter as permanent long-term access?
Answer: B. Patient has an active bloodstream infection
Active bloodstream infection is an absolute contraindication to placing any new tunneled catheter, as it would seed the device and worsen infection.
A peritoneal dialysis patient's drain effluent is consistently brown or feculent. What does this MOST likely indicate?
Answer: B. Bowel perforation with fecal contamination of the peritoneum
Brown or feculent effluent strongly suggests bowel perforation with intestinal contents contaminating the peritoneal cavity, requiring emergency surgical evaluation.