Key Takeaways
- Course has 9 chapters covering all CNA exam content areas
- Follow a 6-week study plan: Foundation → Core Skills → Specialized → Review
- Practice skills until they become automatic
- Always prioritize safety and patient dignity on the exam
- Hand hygiene and patient identification are critical for every skill
Last updated: January 2026
How to Use This CNA Prep Course
This course is designed to help you prepare for both portions of the CNA certification exam—the written test and the clinical skills evaluation. Here's how to maximize your study time.
Course Structure
The course is organized into 9 chapters covering all exam content areas:
| Chapter | Topic | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction | Exam overview and study tips |
| 2 | Role and Responsibilities | CNA scope, delegation, documentation |
| 3 | Communication | Interpersonal skills, reporting changes |
| 4 | Infection Control | Hand hygiene, PPE, precautions |
| 5 | Safety and Emergency | Fall prevention, fire safety, body mechanics |
| 6 | Personal Care Skills | Bathing, grooming, toileting |
| 7 | Basic Nursing Skills | Vital signs, positioning, nutrition |
| 8 | Mental Health and Cognitive Care | Dementia care, behavioral interventions |
| 9 | Legal and Ethical Considerations | Residents' rights, HIPAA, ethics |
Study Features
Each section includes:
- Key Takeaways - Quick facts for rapid review
- Detailed Content - Thorough explanations
- Tables and Diagrams - Visual learning aids
- Practice Questions - NNAAP-style questions
- Skills Checklists - Step-by-step procedures
Recommended Study Plan
Week 1-2: Foundation
- Complete Chapters 1-4 (Introduction through Infection Control)
- Focus on understanding concepts
- Take notes on unfamiliar terms
- Complete all practice questions
Week 3-4: Core Skills
- Complete Chapters 5-7 (Safety through Basic Nursing Skills)
- Practice physical skills (if possible)
- Review vital signs procedures
- Time yourself on practice tests
Week 5: Specialized Content
- Complete Chapters 8-9 (Mental Health and Legal/Ethical)
- Review all content areas
- Focus on weak areas
Week 6: Final Review
- Review all Key Takeaways
- Take full practice exams
- Practice skills demonstrations
- Rest before exam day
Tips for Written Exam Success
Study Strategies:
- ✅ Read questions carefully—look for keywords
- ✅ Eliminate obviously wrong answers first
- ✅ Choose the safest, most patient-centered answer
- ✅ When in doubt, prioritize safety and dignity
- ✅ Review rationales for all answers
Test-Taking Tips:
- ✅ Arrive early and bring required documents
- ✅ Read each question completely before answering
- ✅ Don't change answers unless certain
- ✅ Manage your time—don't spend too long on one question
- ✅ Answer every question (no penalty for guessing)
Tips for Skills Exam Success
Preparation:
- ✅ Practice skills repeatedly until automatic
- ✅ Say steps out loud while practicing
- ✅ Have someone observe your technique
- ✅ Know the critical steps for each skill
On Exam Day:
- ✅ Take deep breaths to stay calm
- ✅ Listen carefully to instructions
- ✅ Talk through what you're doing
- ✅ NEVER skip hand hygiene or patient identification
- ✅ Maintain privacy and dignity throughout
Test Your Knowledge
What should you prioritize when answering CNA exam questions?
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C
D