CNA Certification
If you’re preparing to launch your career in healthcare, the CNA exam is your first major milestone. This crucial test evaluates your knowledge and hands-on skills to ensure you’re ready to deliver safe, compassionate care as a Certified Nursing Assistant. While the CNA exam is distinct from the NCLEX, many students find success through intensive, structured prep similar in rigor and focus model. At Poker Exams, we’ve helped thousands of aspiring CNAs pass with confidence using our proven, streamlined approach.
In this complete breakdown, you’ll learn exactly what to expect on the CNA exam, from the written test to the clinical skills evaluation, and how Poker Exams provides the tools you need to succeed, no matter your learning style or schedule.
What Is the CNA Exam?
Administered by your state’s nursing board or an approved testing provider such as Pearson VUE or Headmaster, the CNA exam is divided into two mandatory parts:
- Written (or Oral) Knowledge Exam
- Clinical Skills Evaluation
You must pass both sections to become a certified nursing assistant and be listed in your state’s nurse aide registry, a requirement for employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities and home health agencies.
The CNA exam demands focused preparation. That’s why so many students turn to high-impact study systems environment well structured, repetitive and results-driven.
Part 1: The Written Knowledge Test
This section typically includes 60 to 70 multiple-choice questions and lasts about 90 minutes. Some states offer an oral version with headphones and recorded questions for those who struggle with reading.
Core Content Areas:
- Basic Nursing Skills (30%): Infection control, hand hygiene, vital signs, safety and emergency procedures.
- Personal Care Skills (25%): Bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing and assisting with mobility.
- Mental Health & Social Services (15%): Recognizing depression, supporting residents with dementia and promoting emotional well-being.
- Care of the Elderly & Chronically Ill (15%): Understanding aging, chronic disease management and end-of-life care.
- Legal & Ethical Responsibilities (10%): HIPAA, abuse reporting, residents’ rights and confidentiality.
- Basic Restorative Services (5%): Range-of-motion exercises, promoting independence and using assistive devices.
A passing score (usually 70–80%, depending on your state) is required to proceed to the next step.
At Poker Exams, our CNA question bank mirrors the real exam format, helping you build speed, accuracy, and confidence with every practice session.
Part 2: The Clinical Skills Evaluation
This is the hands-on portion of the exam, where you’ll perform 5 randomly selected skills in a simulated patient care environment under the supervision of a certified evaluator.
Common Skills Include:
- Handwashing (always required)
- Measuring and recording vital signs
- Assisting with bedpan use
- Feeding a resident with dietary restrictions
- Giving a partial bed bath
- Properly positioning a patient in bed
- Transferring a resident from bed to chair using proper body mechanics
- Providing mouth care to an unconscious patient
You must follow each step in the correct order, demonstrating infection control, patient communication, safety, and respect. Missing even one critical step can result in failure of that skill.
Pro Tip: Practice daily using the Poker Exams Skills Drill Guide, which breaks down each procedure into clear, testable steps,just like the top-tier prep used in format.
How Poker Exams Helps You Succeed
We know that time is precious. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or school, Poker Exams gives you the tools to study smarter, not harder.
Realistic Practice Tests – Our questions are aligned with the latest NNAAP and state-specific guidelines.
Detailed Answer Explanations – Learn why the right answer is correct and why the others are wrong.
Skills Checklists & Video Demos – Master every step of the clinical evaluation with easy-to-follow guides.
Performance Analytics – Track your progress, identify weak areas, and focus your study time effectively.
Mobile Access – Study anytime, anywhere, on any device.
Our complete CNA prep package gives you everything you need to pass, no guesswork, no stress.
Don’t Wait , Start Preparing for Your CNA Exam Today
The CNA exam is your first step toward a meaningful career in healthcare. While it doesn’t require the same depth as the NCLEX, it does demand precision, empathy, and thorough preparation. Whether you’re studying independently or using a structured method inspired approach, Poker Exams has your back.
With realistic practice, expert guidance and a proven system, you’ll walk into the testing center ready to pass,on your first try.
Your future in healthcare starts now.
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