CRNFA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CRNFA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When the CRNFA performs the preoperative patient assessment, which finding is MOST relevant to positioning safety? → Patient's weight, height, BMI, and presence of joint limitations or implants
2. According to AORN's Guideline for Hand Hygiene, alcohol-based hand rub is NOT appropriate before the surgical hand antisepsis if the hands are: → Visibly soiled or contaminated with blood or body fluids
3. When the RNFA performs tissue retraction during surgery, AORN guidelines emphasize which primary consideration? → Using the least amount of pressure necessary to avoid ischemia and nerve injury
4. Which electrosurgical mode uses a continuous waveform to achieve tissue cutting with minimal hemostasis? → Cut mode
5. Which absorbable hemostatic agent is derived from oxidized regenerated cellulose and works by absorbing blood to form a gel clot? → Surgicel (oxidized regenerated cellulose)
6. Under CCI guidelines, which activity would NOT be accepted as valid continuing education for CRNFA renewal? → Taking a general wellness course unrelated to perioperative practice
7. For CRNFA renewal, CCI allows candidates to demonstrate continued competency through what alternative to accumulating 20 CE hours? → Retaking and passing the CRNFA examination
8. Which of the following acts as warfarin's (Coumadin) counterbalance? → Vitamin K
9. What does the Chvostek symbol mean? → Clinical signs of hypocalcemia
10. A patient with a known latex allergy should be scheduled as which type of surgical case? → First case of the morning before latex particulates accumulate in the air
11. Which documentation is the CRNFA responsible for ensuring is complete before the surgical incision is made? → Signed and witnessed surgical informed consent on the chart
12. A Bookwalter retractor system is best classified as which type of retractor? → Self-retaining retractor
13. The CRNFA certification renewal cycle through CCI is based on what time period? → 2 years
14. How many continuing education hours must a CRNFA complete during each 2-year renewal cycle to maintain certification with CCI? → 20 hours
15. The CRNFA selects a TA (thoracoabdominal) stapler. Which statement BEST describes its function? → It places one or two rows of staples without dividing the tissue
16. In which anatomical space does a retroperitoneal hematoma develop after injury to the aorta or inferior vena cava? → Retroperitoneal space posterior to parietal peritoneum
17. Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'competency' as CCI applies it to the CRNFA credential? → Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and judgment sufficient to safely perform the RNFA role
18. Which anesthetic technique provides excellent analgesia for total knee arthroplasty while allowing early ambulation and reducing opioid requirements? → Femoral nerve block or adductor canal block (regional anesthesia)
19. Which intraoperative physiologic parameter, if consistently below 95%, requires immediate intervention by the surgical team? → SpO2 (pulse oximetry oxygen saturation)
20. A retention (stay) suture is used in abdominal closure primarily for which purpose? → To add supplemental strength in high-risk patients prone to dehiscence
21. A patient reports a prior reaction to a 'caine' medication at the dentist. The CRNFA should prioritize communicating which concern to the anesthesia team? → Possible allergy to amide or ester local anesthetics
22. Electrosurgical unit (ESU) current density is highest at which point in the circuit? → The active electrode tip
23. During a laparoscopic procedure, the CRNFA notices the laparoscope image is foggy. The MOST appropriate initial action is to: → Clean the laparoscope lens with a warm, moist sponge or anti-fog solution
24. Which suture material is most appropriate for closing a contaminated abdominal wound where infection risk is high? → Nylon monofilament (non-absorbable)
25. A Weitlaner retractor is best described as: → A self-retaining retractor with sharp or blunt rake-like prongs
26. A ligating clip should be placed at what minimum distance from the planned transection point to ensure secure hemostasis? → 2–3 mm
27. Which patient factor is the single greatest systemic risk factor for surgical site infection? → Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (HbA1c > 8%)
28. Which of the following does the hospital or medical staff have the least influence over? → Patient's health condition
29. Which suture material is most appropriate for a contaminated abdominal wound requiring fascial closure? → Polydioxanone (PDS) — monofilament slowly absorbable
30. Under CCI policy, a CRNFA who transitions to a management role and stops first assisting should: → Apply for inactive status with CCI and maintain CE to reactivate later