Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is one of the most rewarding career paths in the healthcare industry. CNAs are critical in providing essential patient care and supporting registered nurses. However, the CNA exam can be challenging; over 9,877 aspiring nursing assistants fail to pass it on their first attempt each year.
Failing the exam doesn’t just delay your dream career but also has significant financial implications. Every month you postpone starting your CNA career, you could lose thousands of dollars in potential earnings. With annual CNA salaries ranging from $29,000 to over $40,000, the cost of being unprepared can quickly add up.
The good news? You don’t have to face the exam unprepared. Investing in the right CNA study guide can make all the difference between passing on your first try and having to retake the exam. To help you navigate your options, we’ve compiled a list of the best CNA study guides available this year.
Key Takeaways
- CNA Certification is Lucrative and Life-Changing: Certified Nursing Assistants earn between $29,000 and $40,000 annually, making it a high-reward career choice.
- The CNA Exam Can Be Challenging: Thousands of candidates fail the exam each year, highlighting the importance of proper preparation.
- Top Study Guides Can Help You Pass on Your First Attempt: Using a high-quality CNA prep course, like Mometrix University or CNA Plus Academy, can significantly improve your chances of success.
- Study Options Cater to Different Needs: From video lessons to detailed practice exams and flashcards, there are a variety of resources tailored to individual learning preferences.
- Choosing the Right Study Material Saves Time and Money: Passing the exam on your first attempt helps you avoid costly delays and quickly start earning in your new career.
With the right preparation tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to pass the CNA exam and embark on your journey in the healthcare field. Let’s dive into the best CNA study guides and how they can help you succeed.
1. Mometrix University CNA Study Guide
Mometrix University is a top name in test preparation, especially for healthcare certifications. The Mometrix University CNA Study Guide is a comprehensive resource. It helps students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to pass the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam. Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or retaking the exam, this guide provides the tools and support for success.
Course Overview
Mometrix University’s CNA Study Guide combines detailed lessons, practice tests, and digital tools. This creates an all-encompassing study plan. The guide covers the most important aspects of the CNA exam. It includes basic patient care techniques and understanding medical terminology. The course offers over 400 practice questions and 300 flashcards. This ensures plenty of opportunities to test your knowledge. A money-back guarantee is included. Students can study with confidence, knowing they are investing in a resource committed to their success.
Check out this video overview!
Key Features
- 400+ Practice Questions: Designed to simulate real exam questions, providing students with the opportunity to practice and prepare in conditions similar to the actual test.
- 300+ Digital Flashcards: Interactive flashcards that focus on essential CNA terms and concepts, ideal for reviewing on the go.
- 6 Full-Length Practice Exams: Mimic the structure and difficulty level of the real exam, allowing you to gauge your readiness before test day.
- 40 Text Lessons with Detailed Graphs: In-depth lessons that break down complicated topics with easy-to-understand explanations supported by visual aids.
- Money-Back Guarantee: A risk-free option for students, ensuring satisfaction with the course and its effectiveness in helping them pass the exam.
Pros
Comprehensive and Well-Structured Content
The Mometrix University CNA Study Guide offers a thorough and methodical study approach. With 40 text lessons, students are guided through all essential CNA topics, including patient care, infection control, and safety procedures. Each lesson is well-organized and clearly explains complex material, making it accessible for learners at all levels. Including detailed graphs and charts aids in visual learning, reinforcing key concepts in a way that text alone cannot.
Extensive Practice Material
One of the standout features of this study guide is its wealth of practice material. With over 400 practice questions and 6 full-length practice exams, the guide prepares students for the real exam by mimicking the question format and difficulty level. The opportunity to simulate exam conditions multiple times helps boost confidence, improve timing, and pinpoint areas of weakness that need additional focus.
Convenient Mobile Flashcards
The 300+ digital flashcards are a highly useful tool for students who are always on the move. These flashcards allow learners to review and test their knowledge in bite-sized chunks, perfect for short study sessions throughout the day. The ability to study anywhere and anytime ensures that you can continue reinforcing concepts even when you don’t have access to a computer or study materials.
Money-Back Guarantee
Mometrix University offers a no-risk opportunity for students with their money-back guarantee. This feature demonstrates their confidence in the effectiveness of their program and provides peace of mind for those who may be hesitant to invest in a study course. If the course doesn’t meet your expectations or help you achieve your goals, you can get a refund, making it a risk-free option for aspiring CNAs.
Multimedia Learning Approach
The course blends multiple learning modalities, from text-based lessons to interactive flashcards and practice exams, offering something for every learning style. Whether you’re a visual learner who benefits from graphs and diagrams or a hands-on learner who needs to practice repeatedly, Mometrix’s diverse range of tools ensures you’re well-equipped to succeed.
Cons
Limited Interactive Elements
While the course excels in practice exams and text-based learning, it lacks interactive elements such as live tutor sessions or group study forums. This could be a drawback for students who prefer more direct interaction with instructors or peers to clarify difficult topics or get immediate feedback. The self-paced nature of the course requires a high level of discipline and independence from students.
No Live Instructor Support
Unlike other study programs offering live instructor support, Mometrix University’s CNA Study Guide operates without a real-time assistance option. While comprehensive lessons and practice tests exist, students may need guidance or clarification during their study sessions. The absence of a live tutor or dedicated support could be an issue for those who prefer more personalized assistance.
Higher Initial Cost
While the course offers a comprehensive suite of study materials, it comes with a higher upfront cost than some basic study guides. For students on a tight budget, this could be a deterrent. However, the money-back guarantee mitigates this concern, ensuring that the investment is not at risk if the course doesn’t meet expectations.
Requires Strong Self-Motivation
The self-paced nature of the Mometrix University CNA Study Guide can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. While students have the flexibility to study at their own pace, this requires high self-motivation and discipline. Students who thrive in structured environments with scheduled classes or external accountability may find this approach less effective.
Not Tailored for Retake Students
While the study guide is comprehensive and perfect for first-time test-takers, it may not be ideal for those who are retaking the CNA exam. The course doesn’t offer specific strategies or focused review material for students who need to target areas where they previously struggled. Students retaking the exam may need additional resources tailored to their weaknesses.
Bottom Line
The Mometrix University CNA Study Guide is a well-rounded and effective study tool for aspiring CNAs, offering extensive practice material, detailed lessons, and helpful digital flashcards. Its comprehensive approach makes it a strong choice for first-time test-takers who are self-motivated and looking for an all-in-one study solution. However, the course lacks live instructor support and may not be as ideal for students retaking the exam. Despite its higher cost, the money-back guarantee provides peace of mind, ensuring it’s a low-risk investment for your success.
2. CNA Plus Academy CNA Study Guide
CNA Plus Academy offers a flexible study program for nursing assistants preparing for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam. The course is mobile and tablet-friendly, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere. It focuses on self-paced learning, making it ideal for both first-time test-takers and those retaking the exam. The program includes a pass guarantee. CNA Plus Academy provides a range of tools to help you build confidence and focus on areas of difficulty, ensuring your success.
Course Overview
CNA Plus Academy’s CNA Study Guide offers a strong combination of practice questions, tests, and digital tools. It includes over 700 practice questions and 23 full-length practice tests, simulating realistic exam conditions. The course also features 300 digital flashcards to reinforce key concepts. A unique Challenge Bank helps focus on areas that need the most improvement. The guide is compatible with mobile devices and tablets, allowing for convenient, on-the-go study. Plus, the pass guarantee gives you confidence going into your exam.
Key Features
- 700+ Practice Questions: A diverse range of practice questions covering all key topics, ensuring you are well-prepared for every exam section.
- 23 Practice Tests: Realistic, timed practice exams that simulate the actual CNA test experience, helping you gauge your readiness.
- 300 Digital Flashcards: Convenient flashcards available for review at any time, helping reinforce concepts and terminology.
- Challenge Bank: A unique feature that lets you identify your weak spots and focus on improving your understanding of those areas.
- Pass Guarantee: An assurance that you’ll pass the exam, providing confidence and reducing stress about your preparation.
Pros
Extensive Practice Materials
CNA Plus Academy’s course boasts an impressive selection of over 700 practice questions and 23 full-length practice tests. These resources are essential for students who want to replicate the real exam experience. The multiple practice exams allow you to review different question types, helping you familiarize yourself with the format and build confidence. The variety and depth of these practice materials ensure that students cover all essential topics and are well-prepared.
Mobile and Tablet Compatibility
The mobile-friendly nature of CNA Plus Academy makes studying incredibly convenient. With the ability to access study materials on your tablet or smartphone, you can study anywhere, whether you’re commuting, at work, or during short breaks. This flexibility is particularly valuable for busy students who need to fit studying into their day-to-day routine without being tied to a desk or computer.
Challenge Bank to Target Weak Areas
One of the most beneficial features of CNA Plus Academy is the Challenge Bank. This personalized tool allows you to focus specifically on areas where you struggle, making your study sessions more efficient and targeted. Instead of spending time on topics you already understand, you can use the Challenge Bank to identify and reinforce weak points, ensuring a more focused and effective study plan.
Pass Guarantee for Extra Confidence
CNA Plus Academy offers a pass guarantee, which is a huge advantage for students who may be anxious about their chances of passing the CNA exam. This feature gives students peace of mind, knowing that they can re-study the material without additional cost if they don’t pass the exam. This pass guarantee serves as a safety net, making it a low-risk investment for students who want to ensure their success.
Convenient, On-the-Go Studying
The digital flashcards are an excellent tool for reinforcing CNA concepts in short, manageable sessions. With 300 flashcards available at your fingertips, students can review important terms and definitions anytime, anywhere. This tool makes it easier to cram or reinforce knowledge during downtime, making it an essential companion for anyone with a busy schedule.
Cons
Limited In-Depth Video Content
While the course offers a variety of written resources and practice exams, it lacks the inclusion of in-depth video lessons. Some students may prefer a more interactive or visual learning experience, and the absence of video content can make the course feel more static compared to other study guides that provide video explanations or tutorials. The text-based learning format may not cater to every learner’s style.
Not as Comprehensive for Retake Students
While this course is perfect for first-time test-takers, it may not offer enough focused content for students who are retaking the exam. The course doesn’t provide specialized strategies or reviews for repeat test-takers who need to focus on specific areas where they previously struggled. Although the Challenge Bank is useful, students looking for more tailored support may find it lacking compared to other resources.
No Live Tutor Support
A significant downside of CNA Plus Academy is the absence of live tutor support. While the course includes ample resources for self-study, students who need real-time guidance may struggle without the ability to ask questions or seek clarification from an instructor. The lack of live support may deter those who prefer a more hands-on, interactive approach to learning.
Less Focus on Skill Development
The course focuses mainly on knowledge-based learning, providing practice questions and flashcards to reinforce concepts. However, it doesn’t offer as much practical training for the hands-on skills portion of the CNA exam. Aspiring CNAs may need additional resources to help them practice skills such as taking vital signs, performing patient mobility, or other essential tasks requiring physical demonstrations.
Higher Price Point
Compared to some basic study materials, CNA Plus Academy is priced at a premium. While the course offers great value with its range of practice questions, flashcards, and features like the Challenge Bank, some students may find the cost a bit high, especially if they are on a budget. The price may be a concern for those who are looking for a more affordable option or who have access to free study resources elsewhere.
Bottom Line
CNA Plus Academy is a solid choice for nursing assistants preparing for the CNA exam, offering a wealth of practice material, a mobile-friendly format, and a pass guarantee. It’s especially suitable for first-time test-takers who want an adaptive study plan with convenient tools like the Challenge Bank and digital flashcards. However, the lack of in-depth video content and live tutor support may not meet the needs of all learners. The course is priced higher than some other options, but the comprehensive resources and pass guarantee make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a flexible and thorough study experience.
3. Elite Medical Academy CNA Prep Course
Elite Medical Academy offers a cost-effective and comprehensive approach to preparing for the CNA exam. The course uses video-based learning to provide engaging, easy-to-follow lessons. It simplifies complex topics for students. Features include 24/7 live instructor support, downloadable study guides, and practice exams. This makes studying convenient and flexible. Students can study at their own pace while ensuring thorough exam preparation. Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or looking to improve your skills, this course helps you succeed. It does so without unnecessary stress or high costs.
Course Overview
The Elite Medical Academy CNA Prep Course is designed for students who prefer video-based instruction. It also includes practical resources like downloadable study guides and practice exams. The course is flexible, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Live instructor support is available whenever necessary. With over 20 video lessons, the course covers all key topics for the CNA exam. It provides a comprehensive overview of what you need to know. Additionally, it offers a 6-month money-back guarantee, giving students plenty of time to evaluate the course.
Key Features
- 20+ Video Lessons and Practice Exams: In-depth lessons designed to explain core concepts and practical knowledge. The practice exams help reinforce learning and prepare you for the real exam.
- Downloadable Study Guides: Flexible offline study options for students who need to study on the go or away from an internet connection.
- 24/7 Live Support from Instructors: On-demand support ensures that students can get immediate assistance with any questions or difficulties they may face.
- 6-Month Money-Back Guarantee: The course has a generous refund policy, allowing students up to six months to assess whether it meets their expectations.
- Affordable Pricing: Elite Medical Academy offers a budget-friendly option for CNA exam preparation, making it accessible for most students.
Pros
Engaging Video Lessons for Visual Learners
Elite Medical Academy’s 20+ video lessons are crafted to present complex topics in a clear and engaging way. The visual learning approach helps students better understand and retain the material, especially for those who find traditional reading-based learning challenging. The videos break down difficult concepts like patient care, hygiene, and medical terminology into manageable chunks. Each lesson is designed to keep the viewer engaged, making it easier to stay focused throughout the course.
Offline Study Flexibility with Downloadable Study Guides
One of the standout features of this course is its ability to cater to students who prefer or need to study offline. The downloadable study guides allow learners to study at their convenience, whether they are commuting, traveling, or simply prefer offline materials. These guides provide concise summaries of key points from the video lessons, making them an excellent tool for quick reviews or detailed study sessions.
24/7 Live Instructor Support for Instant Assistance
Unlike many other courses, Elite Medical Academy provides 24/7 access to live support from instructors. This is particularly helpful for students with questions outside of regular study hours or those struggling to grasp certain concepts. Having direct access to qualified instructors ensures that students don’t feel isolated or stuck at any point during their study process. It also helps maintain motivation and progress by providing personalized help as needed.
Money-Back Guarantee Provides Peace of Mind
With a 6-month money-back guarantee, Elite Medical Academy stands behind the quality of its course. This gives students confidence in their purchase, knowing they have an extended period to evaluate the course and decide if it fits their learning style and needs. The generous refund policy allows students to explore the course content without the pressure of committing to it immediately, ensuring a risk-free learning experience.
Affordability Without Compromising Quality
Elite Medical Academy offers one of the most affordable CNA prep courses without sacrificing quality. For students on a budget, this course provides an excellent balance of value and effectiveness. The course is priced competitively, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality study materials without the high costs of other prep programs. It ensures that a wide range of students, regardless of their financial situation, can access essential resources to prepare for their CNA exam.
Cons
Limited Advanced Practice Exams and Question Variety
While the practice exams offered in the Elite Medical Academy course are useful for testing your knowledge, they may not fully replicate the variety and complexity of questions that you will encounter on the actual CNA exam. The course includes fewer practice exams compared to some other competitors, which might leave students with fewer opportunities to practice. Advanced learners or those looking for more challenging practice may find the question bank somewhat lacking in diversity and depth.
No Detailed Analytics or Progress Tracking
Unlike some other CNA prep courses, Elite Medical Academy does not provide detailed analytics or progress-tracking features. For students who prefer to monitor their learning progress, identify weak areas, or set specific milestones, the lack of these tools might be frustrating. Without these features, students must rely solely on practice exams and their own self-assessments to measure improvement.
Video-Based Learning May Not Suit All Learning Styles
While video lessons are an excellent resource for many students, they may not be the best learning method for everyone. Some students may find that they retain information better through reading or hands-on practice, and the video format might not cater to these needs. Students who prefer interactive learning or text-heavy resources might find the course less effective and may require supplementary materials.
Relies Heavily on Video Content
The course relies heavily on video content, which could be a downside for students with limited internet access or those who prefer more traditional forms of study. Streaming videos require a stable and fast internet connection, and for students in areas with poor connectivity, this could cause significant disruptions in their learning experience.
Basic Content for Repeat Test-Takers
While the course is highly effective for first-time test-takers, students who are retaking the CNA exam may find the content somewhat basic. The course provides a solid foundation, but it may not offer the in-depth study material that some repeat test-takers require. These students might need additional resources to review advanced topics or focus on areas where they previously struggled.
Bottom Line
The Elite Medical Academy CNA Prep Course is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable and engaging video-based study resource. It provides solid foundational knowledge, 24/7 instructor support, and downloadable study materials for maximum flexibility. While the course may not suit everyone, particularly those who need advanced practice exams or detailed progress tracking, it offers great value for students on a budget. Overall, it’s a top choice for visual learners and first-time test-takers who need comprehensive yet accessible CNA exam preparation.
4. ExamEdge CNA Practice Questions
NurseHub’s CNA Test Prep Course is designed for students who want a structured approach to passing the CNA exam. It focuses on interactive learning and detailed explanations. The course helps students gain a strong understanding of essential concepts. It offers video lessons, quizzes, practice tests, and a user-friendly platform. This makes studying more organized and engaging. The course is ideal for those seeking a step-by-step guide to preparing for the CNA exam. It also provides affordable pricing and flexibility.
Course Overview
The NurseHub CNA Test Prep Course offers a detailed curriculum covering all critical topics for the CNA exam. It includes over 100 practice questions, video tutorials, and study materials. These resources break down complex concepts into manageable sections. NurseHub’s platform lets learners track progress and focus on areas that need more attention. The course is affordably priced, making it a great option for students seeking a structured study plan. It is accessible on multiple devices, allowing flexibility to study anytime and anywhere.
Key Features
- 100+ Practice Questions and Quizzes: Extensive practice resources designed to simulate the real exam and help reinforce your learning.
- Video Lessons with In-Depth Explanations: Engaging and informative videos that break down the core topics of the CNA exam.
- Detailed Study Guides: Comprehensive guides that summarize key concepts, terms, and procedures.
- Progress Tracking: Track your learning and focus on areas where you need improvement.
- Affordable Pricing: Budget-friendly without compromising on quality, making it accessible for all students.
- Access Anytime, Anywhere: Study on the go with mobile and desktop access to the course materials.
Pros
Comprehensive Content with Detailed Explanations
NurseHub’s CNA Test Prep Course excels in delivering thorough content with clear explanations. The video lessons are structured to break down the critical topics for CNA students, from patient care and safety to infection control and medical terminology. This helps students understand difficult concepts in a simplified way. Additionally, the study guides provide summaries that complement the video lessons, offering a holistic view of the topics. With over 100 practice questions, students can confidently test their knowledge and ensure they are well-prepared for the real exam.
User-Friendly Platform with Progress Tracking
One standout feature of NurseHub is its intuitive, easy-to-navigate platform. The course is designed with the student experience in mind. It makes accessing study materials, tracking progress, and monitoring areas of improvement simple. Progress tracking helps students stay organized and focused. They can see how far they’ve come and identify areas that need more attention. This feature encourages students to stay on top of their studies, which is crucial for exam success.
Affordable Pricing
NurseHub offers an affordable option for CNA exam preparation. Many prep courses are costly, but NurseHub provides excellent value for the price. The course is budget-friendly and accessible to a wide range of students. It’s especially helpful for those seeking cost-effective study options. Despite its low cost, the course doesn’t compromise on quality. It offers a comprehensive study plan at an affordable rate.
Flexible Learning Options with Mobile Access
With mobile compatibility, NurseHub allows students to study wherever and whenever they need. Whether you’re commuting, at home, or on break, you can access the course content through your mobile device or desktop. This flexibility helps students manage their study schedules and allows them to study at their own pace. Mobile access is particularly beneficial for busy individuals who need to fit studying into their daily routines, making the course convenient and adaptable.
Realistic Practice Questions and Quizzes
The practice questions and quizzes provided in the NurseHub CNA Test Prep Course closely simulate the types of questions that appear on the actual exam. These resources help reinforce learning and familiarize students with the format and timing of the CNA exam. Regularly completing quizzes allows students to assess their knowledge, identify weak areas, and gradually improve their understanding. The practice questions cover a broad range of topics, ensuring that students are well-prepared for every section of the exam.
Cons
Limited Live Instructor Support
Unlike some other CNA prep courses, NurseHub does not provide live instructor support. While the course is comprehensive and includes video lessons, quizzes, and practice questions, some students may miss having access to real-time assistance from an instructor. This lack of direct interaction could be a drawback for students who prefer asking questions or seeking clarification from a knowledgeable instructor during their studies.
Basic Layout and Design
The course platform, while user-friendly, could benefit from a more modern and visually appealing design. Some students may find the layout basic and less engaging than other prep courses that feature more interactive or aesthetically pleasing designs. A more visually stimulating experience could enhance the learning process for some individuals, making it feel less like a traditional study platform.
Limited Advanced Content for Experienced Learners
The NurseHub course provides a solid foundation for first-time test-takers but may not offer in-depth coverage for those who are retaking the exam or have previous experience. Advanced learners may find the content to be too basic or repetitive, as it is geared more toward individuals who are just starting their CNA exam preparations. Students with prior knowledge or those looking for deeper insight into specific areas may need to supplement this course with additional resources.
No Interactive Features for Hands-On Learning
While the video lessons and quizzes are effective for theoretical learning, NurseHub lacks interactive features that allow students to practice hands-on CNA skills. For a comprehensive CNA education, hands-on experience is essential, and some students may feel that the course doesn’t provide enough practical learning opportunities. Students may need to find additional resources or clinical practice settings to develop their practical skills.
Limited Review Options for Retesting
While the course includes a wide range of practice questions, it lacks a dedicated review feature for students who want to go over specific areas of difficulty after taking quizzes or practice exams. Students may need to manually review certain sections or questions they got wrong, which can be time-consuming. The absence of targeted review sessions might make it harder for students to focus on the areas that need the most attention.
Bottom Line
The NurseHub CNA Test Prep Course is an excellent resource for students looking for a budget-friendly, comprehensive, and structured approach to studying for the CNA exam. It provides in-depth video lessons, quizzes, and progress tracking to help students thoroughly prepare. While the course may not have live instructor support or interactive hands-on learning, it remains a top choice for first-time test-takers and those looking for a solid foundation in their CNA studies. With affordable pricing and flexible mobile access, NurseHub is an effective and convenient option for most students.
More CNA Study Guides!
If you’re preparing for the CNA exam, you know that the road to success can feel overwhelming. With so much to study and understand, it’s important to make sure you’re using the best resources possible. While your primary study courses are critical to mastering the material, there are also additional study guides that can offer extra support, making your review sessions more effective and manageable. These supplementary resources, although not as extensive as the core CNA courses, can still make a big difference in your study routine by providing targeted practice, helpful tips, and valuable insights. Let’s dive into some of these useful options:
Exam Cram – CNA Study Guide
For students looking for a study resource that’s simple, straightforward, and easy to carry around, the Exam Cram – CNA Study Guide is a great option. It offers a condensed yet comprehensive review of the essential CNA exam topics, making it ideal for those who need to focus on the basics without getting bogged down by too much detail.
Key Features:
- Concise Text Passages: The book is packed with short, to-the-point explanations of the most important topics, ideal for students who need a quick review or prefer a more condensed study format.
- Practice Questions: After each chapter, you’ll find a series of practice questions that help reinforce the material and give you a chance to test your understanding before moving on.
- Portable: This guide is designed to be easy to carry, making it a great option for on-the-go studying. You can take it with you wherever you go—whether you’re on your daily commute, waiting for an appointment, or simply have a few spare minutes to review.
Why It’s Helpful:
The Exam Cram guide is perfect for those looking for a last-minute review or a compact study aid. Its concise nature ensures you aren’t overwhelmed with too much information at once, but it still covers all the critical material. Plus, the practice questions are great for evaluating your knowledge and reinforcing your understanding. If you’re short on time or need a refresher, this study guide is an excellent resource to have in your study kit.
Trivium Test Prep CNA Study Guide
If you learn best through visual aids and structured support, the Trivium Test Prep CNA Study Guide offers a more comprehensive and engaging approach to studying. This guide combines practice questions with helpful illustrations and expert advice on test-taking strategies, making it ideal for students who want more clarity and guidance in their preparation.
Key Features:
- Practice Questions with Detailed Answers: Similar to other study guides, it offers a wide range of practice questions. What sets it apart is the inclusion of detailed explanations for each answer, which help you understand why you got a question right or wrong. This feature ensures you’re learning from your mistakes and strengthening your overall understanding.
- Illustrations and Visual Aids: Complex topics are broken down using diagrams, charts, and illustrations. This can make complicated medical terminology and concepts more accessible, especially for visual learners or those new to healthcare terms.
- Test-Taking Tips: The guide includes expert test-taking strategies, such as how to tackle different question types, manage your time efficiently during the exam, and stay calm under pressure.
Why It’s Helpful:
If you struggle with more technical topics or need extra help with visualizing concepts, the Trivium guide can make studying easier and more enjoyable. The visual aids can clarify complicated ideas, while the test-taking strategies ensure that you’re well-prepared to approach the exam with confidence. This guide is a great choice for those who want to ensure they not only understand the material but also have the right mindset to succeed on exam day.
Learning Express CNA Study Guides
For a truly comprehensive study experience, the Learning Express CNA Study Guides offer an in-depth, all-inclusive resource that not only prepares you for the exam but also guides you through the early stages of your CNA career. With full-length practice exams, detailed explanations, and even career advice, this guide provides a thorough and holistic approach to your CNA preparation.
Key Features:
- Six Full-Length Practice Exams: These practice exams simulate the real CNA test, offering timed conditions and a true-to-life testing environment. Completing these exams under realistic conditions will help you get used to the pressure of the actual test and give you valuable insight into how well you’re preparing.
- Detailed Answer Explanations: After completing each practice exam, you’ll get access to detailed explanations for each question. These explanations will help you understand why the correct answer is right and how to approach similar questions in the future, making it easier to learn from your mistakes.
- Career Guidance: This guide goes above and beyond exam preparation by offering tips on starting a successful career as a CNA. It covers what to expect in the workplace, including job expectations, environment, and long-term career growth, which is incredibly helpful if you’re just starting out.
Why It’s Helpful:
The Learning Express guide is perfect for those who want more than just exam prep. With its practice exams and career advice, it ensures that you’re not only ready for the test but also prepared for the practical aspects of the job. If you’re looking for a comprehensive study tool that helps you both in your exam preparation and in understanding the demands of a CNA career, this guide is a great resource.
Why These Additional Study Guides Can Help
While they may not have the full scope of features found in the top CNA prep courses, these supplementary guides can still make a significant difference in your study routine. They serve as excellent supporting resources to reinforce what you’re already learning in your primary course. Whether you need extra practice, a different approach to difficult topics, or just want to focus on certain areas, these guides can offer that extra layer of preparation you need to pass the exam with flying colors.
These study materials can help you feel more confident, organized, and ready for the challenges ahead. Whether you’re looking for a quick review on-the-go, a guide that explains tricky concepts in simpler terms, or full-length practice tests that mimic the actual CNA exam, these options provide the flexibility and additional support you need. Add one (or more!) of these guides to your study toolkit, and you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful exam day.
FAQs About CNA Exam Preparation
1. What are the eligibility requirements to become a CNA?
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you need to meet several requirements:
- Complete a state-approved training program: Most states require you to finish a CNA training program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical hands-on practice. The program typically lasts between 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the state and training provider.
- Pass the CNA exam: After completing your training, you must pass both a written and a skills test to earn your certification. The written exam usually includes multiple-choice questions, while the skills test requires you to demonstrate key nursing tasks.
- Background check: Most states require a criminal background check as part of the certification process to ensure safety in healthcare settings.
- Meet other state-specific requirements: Each state may have additional requirements, such as a minimum number of training hours or continuing education for recertification.
2. How do I choose the best CNA study guide for me?
Choosing the best CNA study guide depends on your learning style and goals. Consider the following:
- Practice Questions: If you prefer learning through practice, look for a study guide with a large number of practice questions, such as Mometrix University or ExamEdge.
- Video Lessons: If you’re a visual learner, Elite Medical Academy offers video-based lessons to help you better understand key concepts.
- Mobile-Friendly Options: For on-the-go learning, choose a study guide like CNA Plus Academy that is optimized for mobile devices.
- Guarantees and Support: If you need extra reassurance, consider study guides with pass guarantees and 24/7 instructor support to provide peace of mind during your preparation.
- Cost: While more expensive courses may offer additional features, you can still find quality options at lower price points.
3. How long does it take to prepare for the CNA exam?
The time required to prepare for the CNA exam varies from person to person based on the amount of prior knowledge and experience. On average, students spend 4-8 weeks studying for the exam. Here’s a breakdown of how long each section may take:
- Training Program: 4-12 weeks, depending on the program you choose.
- Study Time: If you’re studying independently, aim for 2-4 hours per day over the course of 4-6 weeks. This will give you ample time to go over materials, practice tests, and review weak areas.
- Exam Day: The CNA written exam generally takes 90 minutes, while the skills test typically lasts 30-60 minutes.
4. What types of questions are on the CNA exam?
The CNA exam consists of two parts:
- Written Exam: The written portion includes multiple-choice questions covering topics such as infection control, basic nursing skills, patient safety, and communication techniques. It assesses your knowledge of essential nursing tasks.
- Skills Test: The skills portion requires you to perform a set of nursing tasks in front of an examiner. This can include measuring vital signs, assisting a patient with mobility, or performing hand hygiene. It tests your ability to carry out basic nursing duties effectively.
5. How can I reduce test anxiety before taking the CNA exam?
Test anxiety is common, but with proper preparation, you can reduce your stress levels:
- Simulate Test Conditions: Take full-length practice exams from your study guide to get familiar with the test format and timing.
- Study in Intervals: Use techniques like the Pomodoro method (study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break) to avoid burnout.
- Stay Organized: Create a study schedule that breaks down your study materials into manageable sections.
- Relaxation Techniques: Try deep breathing, meditation, or other relaxation methods to calm your nerves before the exam.
- Get Plenty of Rest: A good night’s sleep is essential for cognitive function and memory retention, so don’t underestimate the power of rest.
6. How much does a CNA study guide cost?
The cost of CNA study guides varies depending on the type of materials and course options:
- Online Courses: CNA prep courses like Mometrix University and CNA Plus Academy range from $50 to $300, depending on the features offered (e.g., practice tests, video lessons, or mobile access).
- Books: Physical study guides like the Exam Cram or Trivium Test Prep are often more affordable, typically ranging from $20 to $60.
- Practice Tests: Platforms like ExamEdge charge per practice test, often ranging from $20 to $50 per test, with options to purchase bulk test packages for discounts.
While online courses tend to be more expensive, they often include more comprehensive resources like video lessons and instructor support, which can provide greater value in the long run.
7. What happens if I fail the CNA exam?
If you fail the CNA exam, don’t be discouraged! Many students need multiple attempts to pass. Here’s what you should do:
- Review Your Results: Most testing centers provide feedback on your performance. Review the areas where you struggled, and focus your next round of study on those topics.
- Re-Register: Each state has different guidelines for retaking the exam. You’ll usually be allowed to retake the test after a waiting period of a few weeks. Be sure to check with your state’s regulatory agency for specific rules.
- Practice More: Use additional practice questions or re-watch video lessons to reinforce your knowledge and build confidence.
- Stay Positive: Failing doesn’t define your potential as a CNA. Use the experience as an opportunity to learn and improve.
Conclusion
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an exciting and rewarding career path, but passing the exam is an essential first step. By choosing the best study guide for your learning style and committing to a thorough preparation plan, you can greatly increase your chances of success.
Whether you opt for the comprehensive resources of Mometrix University, the practice-focused approach of ExamEdge, or the mobile flexibility of CNA Plus Academy, it’s important to dedicate time and effort to mastering the material. With the right study materials, you’ll be well-prepared to pass your CNA exam and embark on a fulfilling healthcare career that offers competitive salaries, job stability, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients.
Stay confident, stay focused, and best of luck in your journey to becoming a CNA!