CNN Exam 2026
Free CNN practice test 2026 with 175+ questions. Pass your Certified Nephrology Nurse exam on the first try! Study guide, flashcards & tips inside.
CNN Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The Certified Nephrology Nurse (CNN) examination is the premier credential for nurses specializing in kidney care. It validates advanced knowledge in hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, transplant, and chronic kidney disease management. Earning this certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the nephrology nursing field.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to prepare, including free practice questions, a score calculator, salary insights, and detailed study resources. Whether you are working in an outpatient clinic or an acute care hospital, passing the CNN exam is a pivotal step in your nursing career.
Note: To sit for the CNN exam, you must have at least 3,000 hours of experience in nephrology nursing within the last three years and hold a current, unrestricted RN license.
Free CNN Practice Exams
Our free CNN practice tests cover all major domains of the exam, including Hemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis, Transplant, and Acute Therapies. Use these questions to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Comprehensive CNN Practice
Full-length practice test covering all domains of the Certified Nephrology Nurse exam. Includes questions on CKD, transplants, and dialysis modalities.
Hemodialysis Focus
Specialized questions focusing on hemodialysis procedures, vascular access, complications, and patient safety protocols. Essential for dialysis nurses.
Peritoneal & Transplant
Practice questions dedicated to Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) modalities and Kidney Transplant care, including immunosuppression and rejection signs.
CKD & Pharmacology
Review concepts related to Chronic Kidney Disease stages, renal pharmacology, anemia management, and bone mineral metabolism disorders.
CNN Exam Flashcards
Quick review of essential nephrology concepts
CNN Exam Study Guide
Use this interactive guide to understand the key components of the Certified Nephrology Nurse exam, from registration to scoring.
CNN Test Format & Content
The CNN exam covers a broad range of topics. Understanding the weight of each domain is crucial for effective study planning.
Covers all aspects of hemodialysis treatment, access, and complications.
- Topics: Cannulation, fluid management, alarms.
- Questions: Approx. 50-60 questions
Focuses on PD modalities, catheter care, and infection prevention.
- Topics: Exchange procedures, complications, adequacy.
- Questions: Approx. 40-45 questions
Care of the kidney transplant recipient and donor.
- Topics: Meds side effects, signs of rejection.
- Questions: Approx. 30 questions
Management of AKI and critical care nephrology modalities.
- Topics: Critical care dialysis, fluid balance.
- Questions: Approx. 15-20 questions
General CKD management and medication administration.
- Topics: Nutrition, binders, EPO, hypertension.
- Questions: Approx. 10-15 questions
Addressing the mental and social needs of renal patients.
- Topics: Patient education, advance directives.
- Questions: Approx. 5-10 questions
Focus heavily on the differences between Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis complications. Understanding the distinct signs of peritonitis versus vascular access infection is a common testing point.
CNN Score Calculator
Total Scored Questions
150
105 out of 150 correct
70%
Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)
CNN Salary & Job Outlook
$82,500
Median Annual Salary
How to Become a Certified Nephrology Nurse
The path to CNN certification involves a mix of education, clinical experience, and specialized training.
- 1Earn Nursing Degree - Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher (Masters/Doctorate).
- 2Obtain RN License - Pass the NCLEX-RN and hold a current, unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
- 3Gain Experience - Accumulate at least 2 years (3,000 hours) of nephrology nursing experience within the last 3 years.
- 4Complete CE Credits - Finish 30 contact hours of continuing education specifically in nephrology nursing.
- 5Apply for Exam - Submit your application to the NNCC with proof of eligibility and payment.
- 6Schedule Test - Once approved, schedule your exam at a testing center or via online proctoring.
- 7Pass Exam - Score 70% or higher on the 175-question exam to earn your CNN credential.
CNN Certification Costs
Budgeting for your certification is important. Here is a breakdown of the typical costs associated with becoming a CNN.
Many dialysis organizations (like DaVita or Fresenius) and hospitals offer reimbursement for certification exams. Check with your HR department before paying out of pocket.
CNN Career Opportunities
Explore the diverse roles available to Certified Nephrology Nurses.
Acute Care Nurse
Provide bedside dialysis (HD, CRRT, SLED) to critically ill patients in ICU and hospital settings. High acuity environment.
Outpatient Clinic Nurse
Manage chronic hemodialysis patients in community clinics. Build long-term relationships and manage regular treatments.
Home Therapy Nurse
Train and support patients performing Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) or Home Hemodialysis. Focus on patient education and independence.
Transplant Coordinator
Manage the complex process of kidney transplantation, from pre-transplant evaluation to post-operative follow-up and education.
Nurse Manager
Oversee operations, staffing, and regulatory compliance of a dialysis unit or nephrology department. Leadership role.
Testing Contacts & Resources
For official questions regarding eligibility, scheduling, or membership, contact these organizations.
NNCC
Certifying Body
ANNA
Nursing Association
C-NET Test
Provider
NKF
Kidney Foundation
CNN Test Day Checklist
Ready to Become a CNN?
Join thousands of successful nephrology nurses who advanced their careers with our free practice resources.
CNN Certification Renewal
Renewal Cycle
5 Years
CE Required
45 Hours
Practice Hours
3,000 Hrs
Keep track of your CE certificates as you earn them. The NNCC audits a percentage of renewals, so having your documentation ready prevents stress later.