TheoryCertified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Study Guide
Study for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with exam topics, practice questions, a free PDF, video walkthrough and timed mock exam links.
How to study for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Read the topic list so you know what the exam is likely to cover.
- Answer the free practice questions and read every explanation.
- Download the PDF for offline review.
- Use timed mock exams when your untimed practice feels comfortable.
Topics to review
- Safe and effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial and physiological integrity
- Pharmacology, infection control and patient safety
Try Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) questions now
Q1When dressing a resident who has weakness on one side of the body, which arm should the nurse aide place into the sleeve first?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: The weaker (affected) arm
Dress the weaker (affected) side first and undress it last. This reduces strain on the limb and makes the task easier and safer for the resident.
Q2While giving a complete bed bath, in what general order should the nurse aide wash the body?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: From the cleanest area (eyes/face) to the dirtiest (perineum)
Wash from the cleanest area to the dirtiest, starting at the eyes and face and ending with the perineal area, to avoid spreading microorganisms.
Q3When providing mouth care to an unconscious resident, the nurse aide should position the resident in which way?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: On the side with the head turned to one side
Turning the head to the side lets fluid drain out of the mouth and helps prevent aspiration (fluid entering the lungs) in a resident who cannot swallow or cough on cue.
Q4How often should a nurse aide reposition a resident who is confined to bed and cannot move independently?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: At least every 2 hours
Repositioning at least every 2 hours relieves pressure over bony areas and helps prevent pressure injuries (bedsores).
Q5Which areas of the body are at the highest risk for pressure injuries?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: Bony prominences such as the sacrum, heels, and hips
Pressure injuries develop where bone is close to the skin — the sacrum (tailbone), heels, hips, elbows, and shoulder blades — because blood flow is easily cut off there.
Q6When giving perineal (peri) care to a female resident, the nurse aide should wipe in which direction?
Show answer
✓ Correct answer: From front to back (toward the rectum)
Wiping front to back moves microorganisms away from the urethra and helps prevent urinary tract infections.
Full Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) bank + unlimited mocks
Try 30 questions free. Unlock the complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) question bank, every explanation, and unlimited timed mock exams. Practice on any device.
Unlock Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) →