The CNA test may sound a little daunting to some, but it’s really not that difficult if you go into it well-prepared. Here we will discuss some tips to get you CNA ready! You will come out getting your certificate and better able to finding a good job in the CNA field.
Study Notes
When beginning your studies in the CNA program, make sure you pay special attention to all that you are taught. When finished learning each section, make study notes of key points that you think are important or that you think could come up in a final exam. Often teachers will give hints on specific subject areas that may be extra important, throughout the year. One thing that really helped me with my studies, was to have good study notes. The notes would contain such things as definitions, formulas, and other such important key points. Not only did I use these study notes to help me with studying for the final exam, but they also were extremely helpful for studying for tests at the end of each section. Make sure you memorize and review your study notes carefully and often until you are totally familiar with the material. If you do not understand something, as the teacher or another student who may know the answer.
Study Partner
Studying with a friend at various times throughout the year will help keep you on track. Find a partner, preferably a classmate or someone who is ahead of you in the program or already graduated. This person should be available for discussions on CNA subjects, and to bounce ideas off as well. This person should also help keep you grounded by perhaps shedding light on areas you were not sure of before. It will help keep you accountable as well.
Memorize
If you are unsure of some of the material, then at least make sure you memorize it. That way you should still be able to answer test questions relating to areas that you are not as familiar with.
Practice Tests
Write up practice tests for yourself and your study partner. Swap them and test each other. They can be written answer tests, multiple choice, or another type of test you prefer. Do the tests without the aid of text book reference. Do them honestly and see what kind of results you get. They will help you realize what areas of the CNA program you need to focus on.
Clinical Practice
Volunteer your services at a nursing home, hospital or doctor’s office. This will give you loads of practical experience in the right environment, even if you are not doing exactly CNA work all the time. You will be surrounded by people in the know. People who you can befriend who can help you if you have questions surrounding certain aspects of the CNA career.
Write a Sample Essay
Choose an area of particular interest to you within the CNA subject and begin writing about it. Write all you know about that subject. Refer to text books when you get stumped for information or for looking for particular references. This will help you get yourself in the frame of mind as a CNA. You will be put in the shoes as a CNA while writing an article such as this. It is good practice for your final exam.
Get Involved
Participate in CNA classroom discussions. Talk openly about the subject among your classmates. Join an online forum. Look up books about the nursing profession at your local library that are not part of your course of study. Read them and learn more than you are required.
Following the points mentioned above will make you a better CNA student and better able to answer any CNA test questions that may come up at exam time.
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I am considering doing an LVN program but it is a preq. to have a CNA license beforehand. Is there anyway I can get the licesnse or take the test w/o having to take CNA classes?
Hi Stephanie,
If you are looking into qualifying for a CNA test without having taken the CNA classes, you may want to look at getting an employer sponsorship. For example, if you are already working in the field then you may have enough experience and knowledge to go ahead and write the exam. Some CNA schools and even online schools will have this available for their students. I hope that helps.