GNA Practice Test
Updated for October 2026
Prepare for your Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) career with our comprehensive practice resources. The GNA Exam is a critical step for nursing assistants, particularly in Maryland, verifying your ability to provide safe care to elderly patients.
Our free GNA Practice Test questions cover essential topics found on the GNA Certification exam. Whether you need to understand What Is A GNA or study the difference between GNA vs CNA, our guide helps you succeed.
The GNA Certification is specifically required for nursing assistants working in licensed comprehensive care facilities in Maryland. Understanding What Is GNA involves mastering both the written knowledge and practical GNA Skills Test components. Practice with the free GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (11 questions with answer explanations).
- The Maryland NNAAP Written Examination for nursing assistants (CNA-I, formerly GNA) consists of 70 multiple-choice questions.[1]
- Candidates have 30 minutes to complete the five skills of the Maryland NNAAP Skills Evaluation.[1]
- Candidates have 60 minutes to complete the 70-question Headmaster Maryland Knowledge Exam.[2]
- To pass the Maryland NNAAP Skills Evaluation, a candidate must receive a Satisfactory result on all five skills.[3]
- The Headmaster Maryland Knowledge Exam costs $30, or $35 with the audio version.[2]
- Renewing a Maryland CNA-I (formerly GNA) certificate requires evidence of 16 hours of paid nursing assistant employment in the 2 years before expiration.[4]
- Headmaster offers a remotely proctored option for the Maryland knowledge exam, in addition to test-site exams.[2]
- Eligibility (Credentia NNAAP): Board-approved CNA-I training program or equivalent.[5]
- Credentia NNAAP score reports in Maryland are generally available within a few hours after the day's testing event is completed.[3]
Numbers in brackets link to the official sources listed under Sources & last verified. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
GNA Exam at a Glance
| Item | Detail | Source · Verified |
|---|
| Number of questions (Credentia NNAAP — Written) | 70 multiple-choice questions[1] | kb-maryland.credentia.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Time limit (Credentia NNAAP — Skills) | 30 minutes for five skills[1] | kb-maryland.credentia.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Time limit (Headmaster — Knowledge) | 60 minutes for 70 questions[2] | hdmaster.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Time limit (Headmaster — Skills) | 30 minutes[2] | hdmaster.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Passing score (Credentia NNAAP — Skills) | Satisfactory on all five skills[3] | kb-maryland.credentia.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Headmaster — Knowledge) | $30 knowledge exam ($35 with audio version)[2] | hdmaster.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Renewal (CNA-I, formerly GNA) | 16 hours of paid nursing assistant work in the preceding 2 years; 2-year term[4] | regs.maryland.gov · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Delivery (Headmaster — Knowledge) | Test site or remotely proctored knowledge exam option[2] | hdmaster.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Credentia NNAAP) | Board-approved CNA-I training program or equivalent[5] | kb-maryland.credentia.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Score release (Credentia NNAAP) | Generally within a few hours after the testing event is completed for the day[3] | kb-maryland.credentia.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Registration deadline (Credentia NNAAP — Online Written or Oral) | Next-day scheduling may be available (test center exams: reserve at least 2 calendar days ahead)[6] | kb-maryland.credentia.com · Oct 25, 2026 |
What changed for GNA in 2026
- Oct 25, 2026: Score release (Credentia NNAAP) changed to Generally within a few hours after the testing event is completed for the day (previously Generally within hours after the testing event ends).[3]
- Oct 25, 2026: Registration deadline (Credentia NNAAP — Online Written or Oral) changed to Next-day scheduling may be available (test center exams: reserve at least 2 calendar days ahead) (previously Next-day scheduling may be available).[6]
- Oct 25, 2026: Eligibility (Credentia NNAAP) changed to Board-approved CNA-I training program or equivalent (previously Board-approved training or equivalent).[5]
- Oct 25, 2026: Time limit (Headmaster — Knowledge) changed to 60 minutes for 70 questions (previously 60 minutes).[2]
- Oct 25, 2026: Renewal (CNA-I, formerly GNA) changed to 16 hours of paid nursing assistant work in the preceding 2 years; 2-year term (previously 16 hours of paid nursing assistant employment in the preceding two years).[4]
- Oct 25, 2026: Other (update 2026-04-01) changed to Maryland redesignated GNA certification as CNA-I (and CNA as CNA-II) effective April 1, 2026. (previously Maryland redesignated GNA certification as CNA-I effective April 1, 2026.).[7]
- Apr 1, 2026: Maryland redesignated GNA certification as CNA-I (and CNA as CNA-II) effective April 1, 2026.[7]
Free GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant Study Tools
Interactive GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
According to Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON). The Board redesignated GNA as CNA-I on 2026-04-01. Its testing vendors are Credentia (, “The Written Examination consists of seventy (70) multiple choice questions written in English.”[1]
GNA Practice Test Questions
Prepare for the GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
Worked examples: how to reason through GNA questions
These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.
Example 1
Question: When assisting a dependent resident to move up in bed, what is the safest and most effective method for the GNA to use?
- Ask a coworker for help and use a draw sheet or slide sheet.
- Grasp the resident under their arms and pull them up toward the headboard.
- Lower the bed as much as possible to get better leverage.
- Instruct the resident to grab onto the side rails and pull themselves up.
Answer: A. Ask a coworker for help and use a draw sheet or slide sheet.
Explanation:
A is correct. Getting a coworker to help and using a draw sheet or slide sheet spreads the lift between both caregivers. The sheet also lowers friction, so the resident's skin is not dragged across the linen, which causes shearing injuries. B is wrong because pulling a resident up by the armpits can injure the shoulders and drags the skin. C is wrong because a low bed makes you bend at the waist. Raise the bed to a safe working height, usually about waist level. D is wrong because a dependent resident cannot safely pull their own body weight, and grabbing the side rails risks a fall or strain. Rule to remember: if a resident cannot help much, use a lift aid or friction-reducing device and get help. Never lift alone using the resident's arms.
Example 2
Question: Which of the following is an example of an objective observation that a GNA should report?
- The resident states, "I have a sharp pain in my stomach."
- The resident's wife says he seemed sad all morning.
- The resident's urine is noted to be cloudy and has a strong odor.
- The resident reports feeling anxious about an upcoming doctor's appointment.
Answer: C. The resident's urine is noted to be cloudy and has a strong odor.
Explanation:
C is correct. Cloudy urine with a strong odor is something you see and smell yourself, which makes it an objective observation. It can also be an early sign of a urinary infection, so report it to the nurse. A is wrong because pain the resident describes is subjective. Report it, but it is the resident's own account. B is wrong because the wife's impression that he seemed sad is someone else's opinion, not something you measured or observed. D is wrong because feeling anxious is an emotion the resident reports, which is also subjective. Rule to remember: objective means signs you can see, hear, smell, touch or measure. Subjective means symptoms someone tells you about. Report both, and chart each one as what it is.
Example 3
Question: Mr. Jones is a resident who can feed himself but has difficulty getting out of his bed and moving to a chair. Which ADL does he need assistance with?
- Eating
- Transferring
- Dressing
- Continence
Answer: B. Transferring
Explanation:
B is correct. Transferring means moving from one surface or position to another, such as bed to chair or sitting to standing. That is exactly where Mr. Jones has trouble. A is wrong because the question says he can feed himself. C is wrong because nothing in the question suggests he has trouble putting on or taking off clothes. D is wrong because continence means control of the bladder and bowel, and the question does not mention it. Rule to remember: on ADL questions, match the stated difficulty to the activity it describes, and ignore the activities the resident can still do. Encourage independence in those so the resident keeps the abilities they have.
How to use these practice tests
Start by finding out which testing vendor your training program uses, then download that vendor's candidate handbook. Read the skills section closely, because you need a Satisfactory result on every skill, not an average across them.
Next, take one practice set per topic without notes to see where you stand. The infection control and safety, observing and reporting changes and resident rights and communication sets cover ideas that show up across many questions, so start there. For every question you miss, write down the rule behind the right answer, not just the letter.
Then go back to your weaker topics, such as body mechanics and mobility or mental health and dementia care, and retake them until your reasoning holds up.
Practise the skills out loud, with a partner if you can: knock, introduce yourself, explain the task, provide privacy, check safety, and wash your hands. Time yourself so the real time limit does not surprise you. In the final days before the exam, review your notes and check your test-day instructions and ID requirements in the vendor handbook.
GNA Exam Flashcards
Quick review of common GNA Test concepts
📚 🩺What is the primary role of a GNA?
A GNA provides basic nursing care to elderly patients in long-term care facilities under supervision.
🎯 🧼How long should you wash your hands?
At least 20 seconds using friction, soap, and warm water is required for infection control.
💡 🔄How often must a GNA renew their license?
Every two years, typically requiring 8 hours of paid work and background checks.
🔑 🛌What is a key GNA duty?
Assisting residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and feeding.
📝 📍Where is GNA certification required?
It is a specific requirement for working in comprehensive care facilities in the state of Maryland.
⭐ 📝What format is the GNA Exam?
It consists of a written multiple-choice knowledge test and a hands-on clinical skills evaluation.
GNA Exam Study Guide
This study guide covers everything from GNA Certification Requirements to exam format. Learn What Is A GNA In Healthcare and prepare effectively.
- What is a GNA in nursing?
- A Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) is a CNA who has completed additional certification requirements to work in Maryland's long-term care facilities.
- GNA vs CNA: What is the difference?
- The main Difference Between CNA And GNA is that GNA is a federally mandated certification specific to Maryland nursing homes, whereas CNA is the baseline state certification.
- What are common GNA duties?
- GNA Duties include bathing, dressing, feeding, taking vital signs, and reporting changes in patient conditions to nurses.
- What does GNA stand for in nursing?
- It stands for Geriatric Nursing Assistant, emphasizing care for the elderly population.
- What is the GNA test format?
- The GNA Exam consists of a written (or oral) knowledge test with about 70 questions and a clinical GNA Skills Test where you perform 5 random skills.
- How long is the GNA exam?
- Candidates typically have 2 hours for the written section and about 30-40 minutes for the skills evaluation.
- What is covered in the GNA skills test?
- Skills include hand hygiene, measuring blood pressure, catheter care, ambulation, and position changes.
- Is the GNA test hard?
- With proper GNA Training and practice, most students pass. The skills section requires strict adherence to safety steps.
- How to get GNA certification?
- You must complete an approved GNA Training program, pass the NNAAP exam, and register with the Maryland Board of Nursing.
- What are GNA certification requirements?
- Requirements include completing a 100-hour course, clinical rotation, and passing the background check and GNA Exam.
- Where can I find GNA classes?
- Look for "GNA classes near me" at community colleges, Red Cross centers, and private nursing schools in Maryland.
- Can I take the GNA test online?
- The written portion may be available online, but the GNA Skills Test must be performed in person.
- What is the passing score for GNA?
- You generally need a score of around 70-75% on the written test and must pass all 5 skills in the clinical section.
- When do I get GNA results?
- Results are often available on the same day for skills and within 24-48 hours for the written test.
- What happens if I fail the GNA test?
- You can retake the failed section up to three times before you must retake the entire training program.
- How do I verify my GNA license?
- Use the GNA License lookup tool on the Maryland Board of Nursing website.
- What is the average GNA salary?
- The average GNA Salary ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
- Does GNA pay more than CNA?
- Yes, GNA Salary is often slightly higher than base CNA pay due to the additional federal certification requirement.
- What are GNA job prospects?
- Demand is high for GNA Nursing professionals in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and hospice care.
- Any tips for the GNA exam?
- Focus on infection control during the GNA Skills Test and review GNA Practice Test questions for the written portion.
Expect to spend between $1,100 and $1,900 total. Many employers offer reimbursement or free training in exchange for a work commitment.
GNA Career Paths
Explore specialized roles available after earning your GNA Certification.
GNA Test Day Checklist
Two forms of valid ID (one photo) Admission ticket/confirmation No large jewelry or long nails Ready to Pass Your GNA Exam?
Get unlimited access to free GNA Practice Test questions and mastering GNA Skills Test requirements today.
You must work at least 8 hours for pay as a GNA or in a nursing-related role within the 24-month period to be eligible for online renewal.
Pros
- Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
- Increases job market competitiveness
- Provides structured learning goals
- Networking opportunities with other certified professionals
Cons
- Study materials can be expensive
- Exam anxiety can affect performance
- Requires dedicated preparation time
- Retake fees apply if you don't pass
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| 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 |
Sample GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant Practice Questions
Try these questions from our free GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
Which of the following tasks is outside the scope of practice for a Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA)?
- A. Applying a sterile dressing to a deep wound.
- B. Assisting a resident with their meal tray.
- C. Measuring and recording a resident's blood pressure.
- D. Documenting the amount of fluid a resident drinks.
Answer: A. Applying a sterile dressing to a deep wound.
Applying a sterile dressing is a complex task that requires sterile technique and the assessment skills of a licensed nurse. GNAs are trained to perform non-sterile procedures and assist with activities of daily living, such as feeding, vital signs, and recording intake and output.
A GNA has just finished a task that involved contact with a resident's body fluids and has removed their gloves. According to Standard Precautions, what is the immediate next step?
- A. Apply a new pair of gloves for the next task.
- B. Use a paper towel to wipe off any residual moisture.
- C. Perform hand hygiene with soap and water or an alcohol-based rub.
- D. Document the care provided to the resident.
Answer: C. Perform hand hygiene with soap and water or an alcohol-based rub.
Standard Precautions mandate that hand hygiene be performed immediately after removing gloves. Gloves are not a perfect barrier and can have microscopic tears, and hands can become contaminated during the removal process. Performing hand hygiene is a critical step to prevent cross-contamination.
A resident is unable to move his own arm due to a recent stroke. The nursing assistant is instructed to perform passive range of motion (PROM) exercises. This means the nursing assistant will:
- A. ask the resident to lift the arm as high as they can.
- B. move the resident's arm through the exercises without assistance from the resident.
- C. have the resident squeeze a stress ball to build strength.
- D. assist the resident in moving the arm, with the resident doing most of the work.
Answer: B. move the resident's arm through the exercises without assistance from the resident.
Passive range of motion (PROM) involves the caregiver moving the resident's joints through their range of motion without any active participation from the resident. This is done when the resident is unable to move the limb on their own.
What is the normal oral body temperature range for an adult?
- A. 95.0°F–97.0°F (35°C–36.1°C)
- B. 97.6°F–99.6°F (36.4°C–37.6°C)
- C. 100.0°F–101.5°F (37.8°C–38.6°C)
- D. 102°F–104°F (38.9°C–40°C)
Answer: B. 97.6°F–99.6°F (36.4°C–37.6°C)
Normal oral body temperature for an adult is approximately 97.6°F–99.6°F (36.4°C–37.6°C), with 98.6°F (37°C) as the classic average.
Take the full GNA - Geriatric Nursing Assistant practice test
GNA Questions and Answers
What score do I need to pass the GNA written exam?
Most states require a score of 70% to 80% on the written (or oral) portion of the GNA certification exam. The exact passing threshold varies by state, as each state's Board of Nursing or nurse aide registry sets its own standards. Check with your state's testing vendor, typically Prometric or Pearson VUE, for the specific cutoff score in your jurisdiction.
What topics are covered on the GNA certification exam?
The GNA exam tests knowledge across several core domains including infection control, safety and emergency procedures, personal care skills, mental health and social service needs, basic nursing skills, and the role of the geriatric nursing assistant. Questions also cover residents' rights, communication techniques, and proper body mechanics for lifting and transferring elderly patients.
Who is eligible to take the GNA exam?
To be eligible for the GNA exam, you must complete a state-approved geriatric nursing assistant training program, which typically requires 75 to 180 hours of instruction depending on your state. Most programs include both classroom education and supervised clinical hours in a long-term care facility. You must also pass a criminal background check before testing.
How do I register for the GNA certification exam?
Registration is handled through your state's designated testing provider, most commonly Prometric or Pearson VUE. After completing your training program, your school typically submits your eligibility to the testing vendor. You then create an account on the vendor's website, select a test date and location, and pay the examination fee, which generally ranges from $100 to $170.
How long do I have to complete the GNA written exam?
The written portion of the GNA exam is typically allotted 90 minutes for completion in most states. The clinical skills evaluation is usually given a separate time block of approximately 30 to 40 minutes. If you require testing accommodations due to a documented disability or language barrier, you must request them in advance through the testing vendor.
What is the format of the GNA clinical skills test?
The clinical skills evaluation requires you to perform a set of randomly selected nurse aide skills in front of a trained evaluator. You are typically asked to demonstrate three to five skills from a larger pool, which may include hand washing, vital signs measurement, patient positioning, and catheter care. Each skill is scored on a pass-or-fail checklist of critical steps.
How soon can I retake the GNA exam if I fail?
Most states allow you to retake the GNA exam within two to four weeks of a failed attempt. You generally have three attempts to pass within a two-year window from completing your training program. If you fail only the written or only the skills portion, you typically need to retake only the section you did not pass rather than the entire exam.
What study materials are recommended for GNA exam preparation?
Focus your preparation on your state-approved training program textbook and any handouts from your instructor, as these align closely with exam content. Practice tests that mirror the multiple-choice format are particularly effective for the written portion. For the skills evaluation, rehearse each procedure step by step using the official skills checklist provided by your testing vendor.
How many questions are on the GNA?
The Maryland Credentia NNAAP written examination contains 70 multiple-choice questions in English. (Verified Oct 17, 2026 against kb-maryland.credentia.com.)
Sources & last verified
- kb-maryland.credentia.com — number of questions, time limit (official source). “The Written Examination consists of seventy (70) multiple choice questions written in English.” Verified Oct 25, 2026 · source checked Oct 16, 2026.
- hdmaster.com — time limit, exam fee, delivery (official source). “You will have 60 minutes to complete the 70 multiple-choice questions Knowledge Exam.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- kb-maryland.credentia.com — passing score, score release (official source). “You must receive a Satisfactory result on all five (5) skills in order to pass the Skills Evaluation.” Verified Oct 25, 2026 · source checked Oct 16, 2026.
- regs.maryland.gov — renewal (official source). “satisfactory evidence, as required by the Board, of16 hours of active employment” Verified Oct 25, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
- kb-maryland.credentia.com — eligibility (official source). “Complete a Board of Nursing approved CNA 1 training program or its equivalent.” Verified Oct 25, 2026 · source checked Oct 16, 2026.
- kb-maryland.credentia.com — registration deadline (official source). “you may schedule an exam as early as the following day depending on exam availability.” Verified Oct 25, 2026 · source checked Oct 16, 2026.
- Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON). The Board redesignated GNA as CNA-I on 2026-04-01. Its testing vendors are Credentia ( — other (official source). “Effective with the April 1, 2026 redesignation of CNA-I (formerly GNA) and CNA-II (formerly CNA) certification types” Verified Oct 25, 2026 · source checked Oct 16, 2026.
How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.