How to Pass Prometric CNA Exam: A Comprehensive Guide

As we all know, we need to pass the Prometric CNA exam to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in the US. That is why this exam deserves our total attention and focus so that we can pass it on the first attempt.

In this article, we have complete guidance for you about how to pass the Prometric CNA Exam. We are going to discuss the format, scoring, testing services, schedule, fees, and preparation resources, & in the end, we’ve got a few useful tips that can prove to be incredibly helpful.

Format of the Prometric CNA Exam

The Prometric CNA exam consists of two main components: a written test and/or an oral test and a clinical skills test.

Written Test

The written test has round about 60-70 multiple-choice questions and an Oral examination. This test is mainly focused on theoretical knowledge. The topics covered in it range from basic science subjects like anatomy & physiology to clinical ones like infection control, patient rights & safety, and emergency procedures.

Clinical Skills Test

As the name explains, in this test your ability to perform various nursing tasks will be examined. You have to demonstrate your skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, transferring patients, perineal care, and providing first aid, etc. The examiner will evaluate you based on whether you are following proper procedure protocols or not, all while assessing your communication skills.

Scoring System

The Prometric CNA exam is scored on a pass/fail basis. To pass the exam, you must achieve a minimum score determined by the state regulatory agency or the nursing board as the passing score may vary from state to state.

The result is usually within a few weeks after the exam. After passing the exam, you can apply for CNA certification and start your career.

Retakes

There may be limits on the number of retakes allowed and a waiting period between attempts for each candidate. For example, a maximum of three retakes are allowed within any two-years time period in California.

Schedule

The exam is typically available throughout the year, with multiple testing dates and times to choose from.

Important dates and details you need to know if you’re preparing for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam in 2024 are;

Spring Exams

Application Period: January 13 – March 7

Exam Taking Window: May 1 – 15

Results: You’ll receive your results in June.

Fall Exams

Application Period: June 1 – September 1

Exam Taking Window: November 1 – 15

Fees

As for the fees, the cost of the Prometric CNA exam varies depending on your state and the testing services provided. The cost of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam varies depending on the state where you take it. On average, it typically falls around $100.

Prometric also offers additional services, such as rescheduling or canceling your exam, but these may incur additional charges.

Preparation Resources

There are various resources available to help you study and review the necessary knowledge and skills. Some of them include:

• Textbooks and study guides for the CNA exam
• Online courses and practice tests
• Review sessions or workshops offered by training programs or healthcare institutions
• Hands-on practice with nursing tasks under the guidance of a licensed nurse

Let’s get into the details of each one of these sections individually.

Complete Training

Attend courses from an accredited state-approved school. These courses cover essential topics related to nursing care. Training is necessary for some of the institutes.

Study Guides

Many publishers offer study guides for the CNA exam. These guides cover the essential topics and provide practice questions to test your knowledge, some even have free access to their flashcards.

We have made a list of CNA study books that can help you prepare for the exam.

CNA Study Guide 2024-2025 | by Test Prep Books

The Test Prep Books’ CNA Study Guide 2024-2025 offers thorough preparation for the CNA exam. It includes practice tests, insights, and practical tips covering essential topics like test overview, test-taking strategies, and the role of the Nursing Assistant like basic nursing care & specialized care, and promotion of safety, function & health of residents.

CNA Exam Test Prep Study Guide 2023-2024 | by Elizabeth Holmes

This book includes 12 Practice Tests & State-by-State Information for the CNA exam. It is also available free on Amazon Kindle Unlimited and Audiobook.

Mometrix CNA Study Guide

Mometrix offers a study guide with concise content and practice questions. This book focuses on key concepts needed for the CNA exam.

Newstone CNA Test Prep Team’s CNA Study Guide 2024-2025

This CNA Study Guide has complete reviews of concepts needed for CNA exam, along with 560 questions & explanations, 8 full-length exams, and access to 500 flash cards if you purchase the paperback version.

CNA Study Guide 2024-2025: Review Book with 300 Practice Questions by Shawn Blake

This guide focuses on tips and tricks for the skills test along with 300 questions from real CNA exams.

Mosby’s Textbook for Nursing Assistants by Sheila A. Sorrentino and Leighann Remmert

It is the most comprehensive text for CNA programs, packed with step-by-step instructions for over 100 procedures Although not exclusively a test prep book, this widely used textbook provides a solid foundation for CNA training.

Mosby’s Essentials for Nursing Assistants | 7th Edition

This is a concise book by the same authors and publishers. It provides concise, easy-to-understand guidelines for the skills performed by nursing assistants with more than 75 key procedures explained in a step-by-step manner, their patient scenarios help you apply your knowledge and develop critical thinking skills.

Practice Tests

There are a lot of websites that offer online practice tests that simulate the actual exam. These tests can be useful in familiarizing yourself with the exam so that you can have an idea of what lies ahead.

We have created for you a collection of online practice test sources for CNA exam preparation.

CNA Practice Test | by PracticeCNAtest.com

This free CNA practice test includes 30 questions covering important topics such as physical care skills, psychosocial care skills, and the role of the certified nurse aide.

Free CNA Practice Test | by CNA Plus Academy

This practice test contains 40 essential Certified Nursing Assistant questions that cover basic nursing skills. It has been updated for April 2024 and is part of a series covering various CNA knowledge areas.

CNA Practice Test | by Tests.com

This test contains 24 MCQs covering topics like physical care skills, psychosocial care skills, nurse aide roles, legal and ethical aspects, and teamwork.

Written Exam Tips

Review Content

Focus on essential topics that are mostly overlooked but are really important like patient care, communication, legal and ethical behavior, and teamwork.

Time Management

Read questions carefully but avoid spending too much time on any single question.

Eliminate Wrong Answers

Use the process of elimination to narrow down choices when unsure. Lesser options you end up with choosing from, more is your chance of getting the right one selected.

Skills Test Strategies

Practice Skills

In order to perfect, you should regularly practice the required nursing skills. Find an instructor or experienced CNA and seek guidance from then wherever required.

Skills Videos

Watching instructional videos on YouTube that demonstrate the clinical skills required for the CNA exam can be immensely helpful. These videos have step-by-step demonstrations of procedures such as taking vital signs, assisting with mobility, and providing personal care.

Gain Practical Experience

Hands-on practice is really important for learning the clinical skills. If possible, seek attachment or apprenticeship, and volunteer or shadow at a hospital or join any nursing training program.

Study Groups

If you lack motivation or get distracted often, try to find a study partner. This will allow you to discuss challenging topics, benefit from the knowledge of others, share resources, and practice the skills on each other, with one acting as a patient and the other as a nursing assistant.

Make your own study plan

It’s better to create your personal study plan. Use a combination of these resources discussed above to create a comprehensive study plan that suits your learning style and schedule.

By utilizing these preparation resources and practicing the skills, you can prepare yourself much better for the Prometric CNA exam