5 Essential Tips for Studying for the CNA State Board Exam

Fordham Institute Inc. • September 19, 2024

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a rewarding career choice, but passing the state board exam is an important step in the certification process. To help you succeed, here are five key tips to effectively study and prepare for the CNA state board exam:

1. Create a Study Schedule

Effective preparation begins with a well-structured study schedule. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on different topics each day. Allocate specific times for reviewing theory and practicing skills. This prevents cramming and helps you retain information more efficiently. Stick to your schedule to build consistency and avoid last-minute stress.

2. Use CNA Study Guides and Practice Exams

There are many CNA study guides and online resources that can help you understand the format and content of the exam. Practice exams are particularly helpful as they give you a sense of the types of questions you'll face and allow you to assess your knowledge. Focus on both the written exam and practical skills, and make use of CNA flashcards for quick reviews of medical terms and procedures.

3. Master the Skills Portion

The skills section of the CNA exam is just as important as the written part, if not more. Practice the core skills such as hand hygiene, taking vital signs, patient transfers, and personal care. Use checklists from your training program to ensure you’re meeting all the necessary steps. Practicing with a friend or in front of a mirror can help you fine-tune your technique and boost your confidence.

4. Focus on Key Topics

While the CNA exam covers a broad range of subjects, some topics are more commonly tested. Prioritize areas such as:

Patient rights and confidentiality (HIPAA regulations)
Infection control procedures (especially hand hygiene)
Safety and emergency procedures
Basic anatomy and physiology
Communication skills with patients and healthcare teams Review these critical areas regularly to solidify your understanding and ensure you're well-prepared.

5. Stay Calm and Confident

Test anxiety can hinder your performance, so managing stress is crucial. Stay calm by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization before and during the exam. Remember that you’ve trained for this moment and trust your preparation. On the day of the exam, arrive early, get a good night's sleep beforehand, and focus on doing your best without putting too much pressure on yourself.

Passing the CNA state board exam requires focused preparation, a solid study plan, and consistent practice. By following these five tips—creating a study schedule, using study guides, mastering skills, prioritizing key topics, and managing stress—you’ll be well-equipped to pass the exam and take the next step in your CNA career. Good luck!

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From Fear to First Day: Overcoming Doubts About Starting HHA or CNA Training

By Fordham Institute Inc. • June 27, 2025

You’ve thought about it. You’ve scrolled through posts. You may have even bookmarked Fordham Institute Inc. a few times. But something keeps holding you back from enrolling in HHA or CNA training. If this sounds like you—you’re not alone. Many of our students started out with the same hesitation, doubts, and questions. But they took that first step—and changed their lives. Here’s how you can move from fear to your first day in class. 1. “I’m Too Old / Too Young” Whether you're 18 or 58, your age doesn’t disqualify you—it empowers you. Many of our students come from all walks of life and find new purpose in caregiving. Truth: It’s never too early or too late to start something meaningful. 2. “I Don’t Have Time” We get it—life is busy. That’s why our programs are designed to fit around work, parenting, and daily responsibilities. Classes are short-term, with flexible options available. Remember: Making time for your goals now can lead to freedom and stability later. 3. “I Don’t Know If I’ll Be Good At It” You don’t have to be perfect to start—you just have to care. Skills are taught. Confidence is built. And every great caregiver once started with zero experience. Our mission is to help you grow from curious to confident. 4. “What If I Can’t Afford It?” Fordham Institute Inc. offers affordable programs and helpful payment options. Plus, once you’re certified, job placement assistance can help you start earning quickly. Invest in yourself now—and let your career pay you back. 5. “What If I Start and Don’t Finish?” You won’t be doing this alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. We’ve helped hundreds of students stay on track and complete their training—even when life gets tough. You are capable. You are ready. And we’ve got your back. Take the First Step Today Fear is natural. But so is growth. Let this be the season you choose faith over fear, progress over perfection, and purpose over procrastination. 📞 Call us today at 718-480-1804 to ask questions or register You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start.

Nutrition on a Budget: Easy, Healthy Meals for Busy Students

By Fordham Institute Inc. • June 26, 2025

Between school, work, commuting, and caring for family, many students feel like there’s no time (or money) for healthy eating. But at Fordham Institute Inc., we believe that fueling your body doesn’t have to be expensive—or complicated. Whether you’re training to become a Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), eating well can help you stay energized, focused, and ready to succeed. Here’s how to make smart food choices—even on a student budget. 1. Plan Ahead = Save Big One of the easiest ways to eat well on a budget is to plan your meals. Take a few minutes each week to: Write out what you’ll eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Create a grocery list based on that plan Avoid impulse buys and takeout spending Pro tip: Stick to meals you know how to make and rotate favorites to save time and money. 2. Build Budget-Friendly, Balanced Meals You don’t need fancy ingredients to get protein, fiber, and nutrients. Here are easy and affordable staples: Protein: eggs, canned tuna, beans, peanut butter Grains: rice, oats, whole grain pasta Veggies/Fruits: frozen veggies, bananas, carrots, apples Mix & match: Rice + black beans + frozen veggies = a quick, healthy bowl 3. Quick Breakfast Ideas for Busy Mornings Overnight oats with fruit Whole grain toast with peanut butter Scrambled eggs with spinach Breakfast = Brainpower . Don’t skip it—especially before class or clinicals. 4. Snack Smart Keep easy snacks in your bag to fight fatigue between classes: Trail mix Fruit Yogurt Cheese sticks Whole grain crackers Avoid sugary drinks and snacks that give a quick boost and then crash your energy. 5. Stay Hydrated Water is essential for energy, focus, and overall health. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day. Dehydration = Brain fog + Low energy. Stay ahead with water. 6. Cook Once, Eat Twice (Or More!) Batch cooking is your best friend. Make larger meals and store leftovers in containers. Great options: Stir-fry with rice Pasta with veggies Soup or chili Meal prep helps you eat better, spend less, and stress less. Nourish to Flourish Taking care of your body is part of taking care of your future. At Fordham Institute Inc., we support your growth not just in the classroom, but in your everyday lifestyle. 📞 Have questions about our programs? Call 718-480-1804 Because when you eat well, you think well—and when you think well, you succeed.

Small Steps, Big Impact: How HHA & CNA Roles Change Lives Daily

By Fordham Institute Inc. • June 24, 2025

When you think about changing lives, you might imagine doctors in operating rooms or large-scale breakthroughs. But in the world of healthcare, some of the most powerful transformations happen in quiet moments—at the hands of Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). At Fordham Institute Inc., we train individuals to step into roles where compassion meets skill, and every task—no matter how small—carries big meaning. The Power of Presence For many patients, an HHA or CNA is more than just a caregiver—they’re a lifeline. A warm smile, a gentle touch, or a patient ear can ease anxiety, lift someone’s mood, and make them feel seen and safe. You don’t have to change the world—just someone’s world, for one moment. Essential Support, Every Day Helping with meals, hygiene, mobility, or simply offering companionship might seem routine. But to someone recovering from illness or living alone, these acts are everything. Your support restores independence, dignity, and peace of mind. The Ripple Effect When an HHA or CNA cares for a patient, they also support that patient’s family. Loved ones gain reassurance, relief, and the ability to rest knowing someone trustworthy is there. Care isn’t just for the client—it touches entire families. Building Trust Through Consistency One of the most valuable parts of these roles is the connection built over time. Regular visits create relationships, and relationships create healing. Trust is therapeutic. Being a consistent, kind presence matters. Be the Difference At Fordham Institute Inc., we empower students to see the importance of their role—not just in healthcare, but in humanity. As an HHA or CNA, you have the chance to bring light into someone’s life, day after day. 📞 Ready to take the first step? Call us at 718-480-1804 Because the smallest steps in caregiving often make the biggest impact in someone’s life.