CNA Exam Structure and Content

Question 1

The CNA competency evaluation typically consists of which two components?

Accepted Answer

A written or oral knowledge test and a clinical skills demonstration

Answer

The CNA competency evaluation includes a written (or oral) knowledge test and a clinical skills test. The written portion tests theoretical knowledge, while the skills test requires the candidate to demonstrate specific hands-on nursing assistant competencies before an evaluator.

Question 2

Which content area is most heavily tested on the CNA written exam?

Accepted Answer

Physical care skills including ADLs, safety, and infection control

Answer

Member roles, patient rights, and basic care including activities of daily living, communication, infection control, and safety are the core areas on the CNA exam. However, the largest single content area across most state exams is physical care skills and basic restorative services.

Question 3

How many clinical skills is a candidate typically required to demonstrate during the CNA skills test?

Accepted Answer

3 to 5 randomly selected skills

Answer

Most state CNA skills tests require candidates to perform between 3 and 5 randomly selected skills in front of an evaluator. Common required skills include hand washing, taking vital signs, making an occupied bed, and providing perineal care.

Question 4

What happens if a candidate fails one component of the CNA competency evaluation?

Accepted Answer

They only need to retake the component they failed

Answer

If a candidate fails only the written exam or only the skills test, they typically must retake only the failed component. Most states allow a limited number of retake attempts within a specific window before requiring the candidate to repeat the full training program.

Question 5

Which of the following is a major content area included on most CNA written exams?

Accepted Answer

Resident rights and legal responsibilities

Answer

Resident rights is a major content area on the CNA exam. This reflects the importance of understanding and protecting the legal and ethical rights of all residents, as established by OBRA and enforced through federal and state regulations.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Exam Structure and Content