Written Exam: This portion tests your knowledge of:
* Basic Nursing Skills: This includes vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure), measuring intake and output, assisting with ambulation and transfers, range of motion exercises, hygiene care (bathing, dressing, grooming), and skin care.
* Safety and Infection Control: This covers standard precautions, infection control procedures (handwashing, use of PPE), fall prevention, fire safety, and the proper use of equipment.
* Resident Rights: Understanding and respecting resident rights, including privacy, dignity, and the right to refuse treatment.
* Communication and Documentation: Effective communication with residents, families, and other healthcare professionals, as well as proper charting and documentation procedures.
* Basic Anatomy and Physiology: A foundational understanding of the human body and its systems is usually tested. This is generally not in-depth, focusing on what's relevant to CNA duties.
* Body Mechanics: Safe lifting and moving techniques to prevent injury to both the resident and the CNA.
* Mental Health and Emotional Needs of Residents: Recognizing signs of emotional distress and knowing how to interact appropriately.
* Resident Care Planning: Understanding the basic principles of care planning and how it relates to the CNA's role.
* Abuse Prevention and Reporting: Recognizing and reporting signs of abuse and neglect.
* Emergency Procedures: Basic understanding of emergency situations and appropriate responses (e.g., choking, seizure).
Skills Exam: This is a hands-on test demonstrating your ability to perform the following skills competently and safely:
* Vital Signs: Taking accurate readings of temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.
* Assisting with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living): Demonstrating the ability to assist with tasks like bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding.
* Ambulation and Transfer Techniques: Safely assisting residents with walking and transferring from bed to chair, wheelchair, or toilet.
* Range of Motion Exercises: Performing range of motion exercises correctly and safely.
* Bed Making: Making an occupied and unoccupied bed properly.
* Specimen Collection: Collecting urine and stool specimens following proper procedure.
* Other skills: Depending on the state and testing agency, other skills like assisting with feeding, performing post-mortem care, or using specific equipment may be included.
In short: The CNA exam is designed to assess your knowledge and practical skills necessary to provide safe and effective care to residents in a healthcare setting. It's crucial to thoroughly study all the topics listed above to prepare adequately. The specific content and format might vary slightly depending on your location and the testing agency, so it's essential to check with your state's board of nursing or the testing facility for the most accurate information.