Taking The Certified Nursing Assistant Test

When you complete your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program

, you will need to take a certification test administered by your state of residence to get your certificate. The CNA Test is different for each state. If you move to a different state, you will have to take the test for that state in order to work as a CNA. You will not have to take the entire course over again in order to get certified in a different state, but it might be a good idea to take a continuing education refresher geared for that state before you take the test.

Fortunately, you don't have to take the certification test "cold," whether you are sitting for your first certification or seeking certification in a different state. There are many sources of practice exams on-line, with sample questions tailored to each state's requirements. You can download these tests and take them until you are satisfied you are ready to pass the "real" test.

Taking practice exams is always a good idea. The exams are multiple-choice. To make a fair test of whether you understand the principles and procedures you have been taught, there are usually two or more answers that, at first glance, seem plausible answers. But, you need to follow the wording and language carefully to determine which one is the most accurate in the context of your training. The practice exams will come with an answer sheet. The best ones will explain why a particular answer is not correct, to enhance your learning, or at least direct you to the section in the study handbook where the topic is discussed.

Because the practice exams contain only some of the questions in the total set, try to find several practice exams to get a variety of questions. Do not memorize the questions and answers, but do understand the material and how the questions are phrased.

Before taking the test, you will need to submit an application. In most cases, the school where you take your training will have the necessary forms and will arrange for the examination to be conducted at the school. Most states have a minimum test group size. If your school does not meet this minimum or you have to retake the test, or you are applying for recertification in another state, you will need to find a testing site.

To sit for a CNA exam, you must have completed a state-approved training program. You can complete the application before your course of study completes, but your test will not be scheduled until after the completion date. However, graduates of training programs in other states can also apply for testing. Some states allow candidates without any formal training to challenge the exam, but this should be rare.

Once you have passed the certification test, you will not need to take it again unless you move to another state or let your certification lapse. Your certification will lapse if you do not complete the required continuing education training every two years.

by: Karen Williams

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