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Quizzes > Health & Medicine > Human Anatomy & Medicine

Take the CNA Practice Exam: 60 Essential Questions

Ready for your nursing assistant practice test? Dive in and ace it!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art nursing assistant quiz on sky blue background shows free 60 question exam to test skills and build confidence.

Ready to conquer your CNA certification? Our cna practice exam 60 questions offers a dynamic challenge packed with realistic nursing assistant exam practice questions and scenario-based prompts to sharpen your clinical skills. Designed specifically for aspiring nurse aides, this scored quiz delivers instant results so you can pinpoint strengths and identify gaps. Get comfortable with question formats and time management strategies that reflect real exam conditions. Want more practice? Explore our free CNA practice test for targeted drills on vital signs and patient care. Whether you're tackling common care techniques or legal protocols, this nursing assistant practice test questions experience will boost your confidence. Start now and prove you have what it takes!

What is the primary role of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?
Assist patients with activities of daily living
Provide medical diagnoses
Prescribe medications
Perform surgical procedures
A CNA's main duty is to assist patients with activities like bathing, dressing, and feeding. They work under nurse supervision to maintain patient comfort and safety. Diagnosing and prescribing are outside their scope of practice. Source
How long should you rub your hands together when washing to effectively remove germs?
20 seconds
5 seconds
10 seconds
15 seconds
The CDC recommends at least 20 seconds of hand rubbing to remove most pathogens. Shorter durations are less effective at dislodging microbes. Proper technique includes scrubbing all hand surfaces. CDC Handwashing Guide
What is the normal oral temperature for a resting adult?
98.6°F (37.0°C)
102°F (38.9°C)
100.4°F (38.0°C)
96.4°F (35.8°C)
A normal adult oral temperature averages 98.6°F (37.0°C). Individual readings can vary by about 1°F depending on time of day. Temperatures above 100.4°F generally indicate a fever. Source
When lifting an object from the floor, which body mechanics principle should you follow?
Keep your feet together and twist as you lift
Bend at the waist and lift with your back
Arch your back to protect your spine
Bend your knees and lift using your leg muscles
Bending the knees and lifting with the legs reduces strain on the back and prevents injury. Keeping feet shoulder-width apart and holding the object close also helps. Twisting or lifting with your back increases risk of musculoskeletal injury. Source
Which sense is most important for a CNA when observing skin changes on a patient?
Taste
Sight
Smell
Hearing
Visual inspection is key to detecting skin conditions such as pressure ulcers or rashes. CNAs must closely observe color, texture, and integrity of the skin. Other senses can be helpful but sight is primary for skin assessment. Source
Which of the following is an example of subjective data?
Skin temperature
Blood pressure reading
Respiratory rate
Patient's pain level
Subjective data are based on the patient's personal experience, like pain. Vital signs and temperature are objective, measurable signs. CNAs record both types to give a complete picture of patient status. Source
Which piece of adaptive equipment is commonly used to help a resident walk safely?
Bed cradle
Walker
Overbed table
Gait belt
A walker provides stable support for residents who need assistance ambulating. Bed cradles and overbed tables serve other functions. Gait belts help with transfers but do not support independent walking. Source
In which position should a resident be placed while eating to reduce risk of aspiration?
Trendelenburg
Semi-Fowler's
Prone
Supine
Semi-Fowler's position keeps the head and chest elevated, reducing aspiration risk during meals. Fully lying flat can increase aspiration potential. The Trendelenburg and prone positions are not used for eating. Source
When should a CNA perform hand hygiene?
Only before patient contact
Only after patient contact
Only before invasive procedures
Before and after every patient contact
Hand hygiene is required both before and after any patient contact to prevent cross-contamination. This includes when donning/removing gloves. Limiting to only before or after reduces protection. CDC Hand Hygiene
What does 'Code Blue' typically indicate in a healthcare facility?
Hazardous material spill
Fire in the building
Infant abduction
Adult cardiac or respiratory arrest
Code Blue alerts staff to an adult patient in cardiac or respiratory arrest who requires immediate resuscitation. Infant abduction is often Code Pink. Fire is typically Code Red. This standardization speeds emergency response. Source
What does the abbreviation 'PPE' stand for?
Primary Patient Equipment
Patient Personal Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment
Preventive Protection Ensemble
PPE refers to items like gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection that reduce the wearer's exposure to hazards. It acts as a barrier against infectious agents. CNAs must don appropriate PPE for each task. CDC PPE Guidelines
Which site is used for measuring rectal temperature?
Under the tongue
Anus
Beneath the armpit
In the ear canal
Rectal thermometers are gently inserted into the anus about 1 inch to obtain a core temperature. Oral, axillary, and tympanic sites are alternative methods but differ in accuracy. Safety and privacy are paramount during the procedure. Source
What does SBAR stand for in communication?
Summary, Background, Alert, Response
Subjective, Brief, Action, Report
Status, Behavior, Action, Response
Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation
SBAR is a structured method for effective communication among healthcare providers. It helps ensure critical information is communicated concisely. It stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation. Source
How often should you reposition a bedridden resident to prevent pressure ulcers?
Only when they request
Every hour
Every 2 hours
Every 4 hours
Repositioning every two hours helps relieve pressure on bony prominences and reduces ulcer risk. More frequent turns may be needed for very high-risk residents. Waiting for requests misses critical prevention opportunities. Source
What is the normal range for an adult resting pulse rate?
40 - 60 beats per minute
100 - 120 beats per minute
120 - 140 beats per minute
60 - 100 beats per minute
A normal adult resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Rates below or above can indicate bradycardia or tachycardia. CNAs monitor pulse as part of vital signs assessment. Source
What is the name of the table that slides over a resident's bed for meals and personal items?
Nightstand
Side tray
Overbed table
Bedside cabinet
An overbed table is designed to roll over the bed frame for easy access during meals and activities. It adjusts in height for patient comfort. It differs from nightstands or cabinets beside the bed. Source
Which vital sign is known as the 'fifth vital sign' in many care settings?
Weight
Height
Pain level
Blood glucose
Pain level is often recorded as the fifth vital sign to ensure adequate pain management. It is subjective and assessed by asking patients to rate their pain. Tracking pain helps guide treatment decisions. Source
What is the best initial action if a resident begins to fall while you are assisting them?
Stand still and watch their fall
Yell for another staff member before moving
Ease them gently to the floor while protecting their head
Try to lift them back up immediately
Easing a falling resident to the floor and supporting their head reduces injury risk. Attempting to lift them upright can cause both you and the resident to be injured. Always protect the head and call for help afterwards. Source
Which stage of pressure ulcer involves full-thickness skin loss with visible fat but no bone or muscle exposure?
Stage I
Stage III
Stage II
Stage IV
Stage III pressure ulcers present with full-thickness skin loss and visible subcutaneous fat. Bone, tendon, or muscle are not exposed at this stage. Stages I and II are more superficial, and Stage IV includes exposed bone or muscle. Source
When performing passive range-of-motion exercises, how far should you move the joint?
Until the resident feels significant pain
Only to the point of resistance without causing pain
Until the joint locks
Through a full 360° if possible
Passive range-of-motion should be carried out until slight resistance but without causing pain or discomfort. Pushing beyond resistance risks injury. The goal is to maintain joint mobility safely. Source
A resident with Alzheimer's disease is wandering and anxious. What technique is most appropriate?
Physically restrain them until calm
Raise your voice to gain attention
Ignore the behavior
Redirect them to a familiar activity
Redirection to a calming, familiar activity can reduce anxiety and wandering in dementia patients. Restraints and yelling increase agitation and are discouraged. Ignoring may leave the resident at risk. Source
Where should a resident's religious or cultural preferences be documented?
Family contact log
Patient's progress notes only
Care plan
Incident report
The care plan is where individualized patient preferences, including religious and cultural needs, are documented. This ensures all team members honor those preferences in daily care. Incident reports are for unusual events only. Source
How many milliliters are in one fluid ounce when measuring intake and output?
30 mL
45 mL
60 mL
15 mL
One fluid ounce equals approximately 30 milliliters, which is critical for accurate I&O documentation. Miscalculations can affect fluid balance management. Always double-check conversion charts. Source
A resident becomes disoriented and agitated in the late afternoon and evening. This is known as what?
Sundowning
Delirium tremens
Night terrors
Circadian dysrhythmia
Sundowning refers to increased confusion and agitation occurring late in the day in dementia patients. It's thought to be related to changes in circadian rhythms. Proper lighting and routine can help manage symptoms. Source
Which action demonstrates cultural sensitivity when providing care?
Assume all patients follow the same customs
Discourage cultural traditions that differ from your own
Provide care only according to facility routine
Ask about and respect individual cultural preferences
Cultural sensitivity involves asking about and accommodating patients' individual preferences and traditions. Assuming uniformity or discouraging traditions can cause distress. Individualized care promotes trust and compliance. Source
Which type of isolation requires an N95 respirator mask when entering the room?
Contact precautions
Droplet precautions
Airborne precautions
Standard precautions
Airborne precautions are for pathogens that remain infectious over long distances when suspended in the air. An N95 respirator is required for protection. Droplet precautions use surgical masks only. CDC Transmission-Based Precautions
When should soiled linens be changed for an incontinent resident?
Once per day at minimum
At the end of each week
Only during bed bath days
Whenever they become wet or soiled
Soiled linens should be changed immediately whenever wet or soiled to maintain skin integrity and prevent infection. Waiting until a scheduled day can lead to skin breakdown. Timely linen changes are a key aspect of incontinent care. Source
If a resident refuses care, what should you do first?
Tell them they will be charged more
Respect the refusal and notify the nurse
Force them to comply
Document refusal and move on
Residents have the right to refuse care. You must respect their decision and promptly inform the supervising nurse. Documentation follows after notifying the nurse. Source
Which breathing pattern involves alternating periods of apnea and deep, rapid breathing?
Biot's respirations
Kussmaul respirations
Cheyne-Stokes respirations
Apneustic respirations
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by cyclical periods of apnea followed by deep, rapid breathing. This pattern often indicates serious neurologic or cardiac conditions. Monitoring and reporting changes is essential. Source
What is the normal adult respiratory rate at rest?
28 - 36 breaths per minute
12 - 20 breaths per minute
20 - 28 breaths per minute
8 - 12 breaths per minute
A normal resting respiratory rate for adults is 12 - 20 breaths per minute. Rates outside this range may indicate respiratory distress or other health issues. CNAs report any deviations promptly. Source
A resident with a common cold has frequent nasal drainage. Which precautions are required?
No special precautions beyond standard
Airborne precautions
Contact precautions
Droplet precautions
Droplet precautions are used for illnesses spread by large respiratory droplets, like the common cold. A surgical mask is required within three feet of the patient. Airborne precautions are for smaller droplet nuclei. CDC Transmission-Based Precautions
Which practice ensures accurate chart documentation?
Use pencil so changes can be erased
Write only in black ink and sign each entry
Chart for multiple patients on one note
Chart subjective and objective data mixed
Using black ink and signing each entry promotes permanence and accountability in medical records. Mixing subjective and objective data without distinction causes confusion. Charting on the correct patient prevents serious errors. Source
When transferring a resident with one-sided weakness from bed to wheelchair, which side should face the wheelchair?
Weak side to the wheelchair
Strong side to the wheelchair
It doesn't matter which side faces
Resident should face away from the wheelchair
Positioning the resident's strong side next to the wheelchair allows safer pivot and weight-bearing on the stronger limb. Facing the weak side increases fall risk. Proper positioning facilitates a smoother transfer. Source
Which blood pressure reading meets the definition of hypertension?
130/82 mmHg
100/60 mmHg
118/76 mmHg
140/90 mmHg
A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher on multiple readings meets the clinical definition of hypertension. Values between 120/80 and 139/89 fall into prehypertension. Proper technique and repeated measures confirm diagnosis. American Heart Association
What term describes difficulty swallowing?
Dyspepsia
Dyspnea
Dysphagia
Dystonia
Dysphagia refers to difficulty or discomfort in swallowing. Dyspnea is difficulty breathing, and dyspepsia relates to indigestion. Knowing correct terminology aids accurate reporting. Source
Which sign suggests deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a resident's leg?
Bilateral leg pallor
Unilateral leg swelling and warmth
Visible veins in both legs
Cool, clammy skin bilaterally
Unilateral leg swelling, warmth, and redness are classic signs of DVT. Bilateral changes suggest systemic issues. Immediate reporting to the nurse is critical to prevent pulmonary embolism. Source
A resident has expressive aphasia. What communication method is most effective?
Long, detailed explanations
Using medical jargon
Yes or no questions and simple choices
Speaking loudly
Yes/no questions and simple choices reduce frustration for residents with expressive aphasia who struggle to form words. Complex sentences and jargon increase confusion. Patience and nonverbal cues also help. Source
A resident's urinary catheter shows no output for two hours. What should you do?
Flush the catheter yourself
Notify the nurse immediately
Irrigate the catheter with solution
Clamp the catheter to check for leaks
No urine in a catheter for two hours may indicate blockage or kinking. CNAs must report this promptly to nursing staff rather than attempting invasive measures. Early intervention protects kidney function. Source
What is the normal fasting blood glucose range for an adult?
120 - 140 mg/dL
150 - 180 mg/dL
70 - 100 mg/dL
40 - 60 mg/dL
Normal fasting blood glucose levels range from 70 to 100 mg/dL. Values above may indicate impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes. CNAs do not draw blood but should be aware of critical ranges. Source
Which item is most effective in promoting venous return for a resident with foot drop?
Standard slipper socks
High-top tennis shoes
Compression gloves
Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)
An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) supports the foot in a neutral position to prevent foot drop. This promotes safer ambulation and venous return. Other options do not address the ankle alignment issue. Source
Which procedure best prevents cross-contamination between residents?
Skipping hand hygiene if gloves are worn
Wearing gloves throughout an entire shift
Cleaning shared equipment with disinfectant between uses
Using the same thermometer for all residents
Disinfecting shared equipment between residents breaks the chain of infection. Single-use or dedicated equipment is ideal. Gloves must still be changed and hand hygiene performed between each contact. CDC Disinfection Guidelines
In which position should you place a resident for an enema administration?
Prone
Supine
Sims' (left lateral)
Fowler's
The Sims' position on the left side with right knee flexed allows for easier enema fluid flow. It helps minimize discomfort and promotes retention. Other positions are less effective. Source
Vomiting repeatedly can lead to which acid-base imbalance?
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
Excessive vomiting causes loss of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) leading to metabolic alkalosis. The body's pH rises because of decreased acid. Fluid and electrolyte balance monitoring is essential. Source
When applying anti-embolism stockings, what must you ensure?
They fit loosely at the calf
They cover only the foot
There are no wrinkles or creases
Stockings are rolled down halfway
Proper application requires smooth, wrinkle-free stockings to avoid constriction or pressure points. Wrinkles can impede circulation and cause skin breakdown. Fit should be snug but not overly tight. Source
Which task can a CNA delegate to another CNA?
Develop the care plan
Perform wound debridement
Administer oral medications
Assist with ADLs like bathing
CNAs may delegate routine ADLs (activities of daily living) like bathing or feeding to qualified peers. They cannot delegate nursing tasks like med administration or care planning. Delegation must follow facility policy. Source
A resident appears pale, cold, and clammy with rapid breathing. What is your priority action?
Offer a glass of water
Begin CPR immediately
Document in the chart
Notify the nurse at once
These signs suggest possible shock or acute distress requiring immediate nursing assessment. CNAs must report critical changes rather than initiate advanced interventions. Prompt notification can be lifesaving. Source
Which action by a CNA would violate HIPAA regulations?
Using a privacy screen
Discussing patient information in a public hallway
Logging off the computer when finished
Shredding discarded charts
Discussing confidential patient details in public areas risks unauthorized disclosure and violates HIPAA. Safe practices include screens and private conversations. Shredding and logging off protect patient data. HIPAA Overview
What is the first step if you suspect a resident is having a stroke?
Activate the facility's emergency response
Help them into a high Fowler's position
Give them aspirin
Offer them water and let them rest
Prompt activation of emergency response teams is critical for stroke management. Time-sensitive interventions can reduce permanent damage. Do not give medications or wait for self-resolution. American Stroke Association
Which resident is at highest risk for developing pressure ulcers?
Middle-aged patient on daily walks
72-year-old with diabetic neuropathy and immobility
Resident with high fluid intake
Active 30-year-old
Elderly patients with neuropathy and limited mobility have decreased sensation and cannot reposition themselves, increasing pressure ulcer risk. Younger, active patients are less vulnerable. Monitoring high-risk residents is essential. Source
Which legal document allows a resident to refuse resuscitation efforts?
Advance directive for medications
Living will with DNR order
Power of attorney
HIPAA release
A living will containing a DNR order explicitly instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR. Power of attorney appoints a decision-maker but doesn't specify DNR. HIPAA and medication directives address other matters. ABA Advanced Directives
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Study Outcomes

  1. Differentiate Objective and Subjective Data -

    Identify and categorize patient information accurately, strengthening your ability to answer nursing assistant exam practice questions with precision.

  2. Manage Orthostatic Hypotension in Patients -

    Apply proper assessment and intervention techniques to support patients experiencing blood pressure shifts, as seen in real-world nurse aide nursing assistant practice test scenarios.

  3. Apply Effective Test-Taking Strategies -

    Utilize time management, elimination methods, and question analysis to conquer the CNA practice exam 60 questions and boost overall performance.

  4. Analyze Clinical Scenarios Critically -

    Evaluate diverse patient care situations and select evidence-based interventions that reflect best practices on nursing assistant practice test questions.

  5. Reinforce Core CNA Knowledge -

    Review and solidify essential nursing assistant concepts across anatomy, infection control, and patient communication to enhance long-term retention.

  6. Build Exam Confidence -

    Experience a scored quiz environment that mirrors actual exam conditions, helping you gauge readiness and reduce test anxiety.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Manage Orthostatic Hypotension -

    When tackling your cna practice exam 60 questions, expect scenarios requiring safe position changes to prevent drops in blood pressure. Use the SPPO mnemonic - Sit, Pause, Position, Observe - to transition patients from lying to standing while checking BP and pulse (American Heart Association, 2022). Always secure the gait belt and keep the call bell within reach to bolster patient confidence and safety.

  2. Differentiate Objective vs. Subjective Data -

    Nursing assistant exam practice questions often assess your skill in distinguishing measurable signs (objective) from patient-reported symptoms (subjective). Remember: "Observable Outcomes" are objective (e.g., skin color, temperature) and "Spoken Accounts" are subjective (e.g., pain level, nausea) (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2023). Accurately charting each type is essential for effective care planning.

  3. Proper Hand Hygiene & Infection Control -

    In a nurse aide nursing assistant practice test, you'll likely face questions on infection prevention protocols. Follow the CDC's 20-second rule - sing "Happy Birthday" twice while lathering all surfaces, including between fingers and under nails (CDC, 2024). Always don gloves for body fluid exposure and change them between residents to stop pathogen spread.

  4. Assist with ADLs & Patient Mobility -

    Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and toileting are core components of a nursing assistant practice test. Use the RACE approach - Raise bed, Assess footwear, Communicate steps, Encourage independence - to support safe ambulation and preserve patient dignity (American Nurses Association, 2023).

  5. Accurate Vital Signs Measurement & Documentation -

    Precision in taking temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure is crucial for passing nursing assistant practice test questions. Follow the TPR-BP sequence, record units and timing, and flag readings outside normal ranges (temp 36 - 37.5 °C, pulse 60 - 100 bpm, resp 12 - 20/min, BP <120/80 mmHg) (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021). Clear, timely documentation ensures handoff accuracy and resident safety.

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