Thursday, September 26, 2013

What the CNA Test Is Like and What to Study


If you are in the process of completing your CNA training program, you may wonder what the CNA test is like. To get the test results you deserve, it is important to understand what the exam consists of and how to take practice exams to better your chances of passing. With the right expectations and the right study materials, you can put the knowledge you gained from your training program to work and earn your certification. Do your research, study the right topics, and pass your CNA test the first time you take it.

Components of the CNA Exam

When you are researching what the CNA test is like, you will need to review your own state's requirements. Each state develops their own CNA exam based on what the state requires you to know to earn certification. All CNA exams consist of two different components: written and skills. Test takers must pass both the written and clinical skills area of the exam to receive their certification. Written test questions use a multiple choice format and most states include around 70 questions. The skills part of the examination will require the student to show competency in performing 5 hands-on skills. These different skills are selected from a large list of skills at random. Because you will not know which skills you will be tested on, you will need to become familiar with each skill to pass your exam. An administrator will grade the skills tested based on the students ability to demonstrate the skills. The percentage required to pass the exam will differ in each state.

Skills to Practice for Your Exam

If you have a CNA exam scheduled and you are not comfortable with your hands-on skills it is important to practice. If you are not sure what skills to practice refer to the list below and become familiar with each task:

* wash hands
* using a bedpan
* cleaning dentures
* feeding patients
* giving a modified bed bath
* applying knee-high stocking
* calculating a patient's pulse
* counting respirations
* removing gown and gloves
* making an occupied bed
* measuring blood pressure
* measuring urinary output
* performing motion exercises for the knee, ankle, and shoulder
* catheter care
* position clients on side
* mouth care
* food care
* transferring

Make sure to focus on the areas you are struggling with prior to your exam date to ensure you are competent.

Some schools offer exam study guides and study sessions prior to your exam date. If your school does not offer a crash session, consider investing in a reliable CNA test study guide. Take practice tests and get together with classmates to practice the skills portion. When you and your classmates work as a team you can help each other build your skills and knowledge. Study, study, study and pass your test the first time. If you fail one portion of the test, most states allow you to re-test the component you failed.

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