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!
Caregiving is one of the most meaningful paths you can choose—but it’s also one of the most demanding. Whether you’re a Home Health Aide (HHA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), or a student preparing to join the field, you balance long hours, emotional moments, and the responsibility of caring for others. And yet, in the middle of all this hard work, caregiving teaches some of the most powerful lessons in gratitude. With Thanksgiving around the corner, this is the perfect time to reflect on the gifts this profession brings—not just to the people you care for, but to you as well. 1. Gratitude for the Moments of Connection Caregivers often build strong bonds with clients—through conversations, smiles, shared routines, or quiet companionship. These small moments remind you that your presence matters. Someone is safer, calmer, or happier because you’re there. 2. Gratitude for Strength You Didn’t Know You Had Caregiving can be physically and emotionally challenging. But every time you: lift, guide, or comfort a client, stay patient on a difficult day, or show kindness when someone is struggling… …you grow stronger without even realizing it. You discover resilience you never knew you had. 3. Gratitude for a Purpose-Filled Career Not every job makes a difference. But in healthcare, every shift counts. You help people regain independence, feel safe, and live with dignity. This kind of meaningful work gives a sense of purpose that many people spend years searching for. 4. Gratitude for What Clients Teach You Clients teach caregivers as much as caregivers help them. They teach patience, empathy, storytelling, courage, and appreciation for life’s simple moments. Their life experiences become lessons—ones you carry with you far beyond your workday. 5. Gratitude for Growth and Opportunity Every skill you learn, every class you complete, and every day you show up brings you closer to a stable, rewarding career. Caregiving opens doors—to healthcare, nursing, specialized care, and more. It’s a growing field with endless possibilities. A Thanksgiving Reminder If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, pause for a moment. You’ve done more this year than you think. You’ve grown. You’ve learned. You’ve cared. You’ve made a difference. Be grateful for how far you’ve come—and proud of where you’re heading. 📞 Ready to begin your journey? Call 718-480-1804 Gratitude doesn’t make the work easier—but it makes the journey richer, deeper, and more meaningful 💛
Caregiving is deeply rewarding—but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Whether you’re working as a Home Health Aide (HHA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), or attending training classes, maintaining your energy is essential. And as the colder months approach, staying healthy becomes even more important. At Fordham Institute Inc. , we encourage our students and caregivers to prioritize their well-being. You deserve to feel strong, balanced, and supported—both in your work and in your everyday life. Here are some simple, realistic healthy habits that caregivers can practice throughout the busy season. 1. Stay Hydrated (Even When You’re Busy) It’s easy to forget to drink water while caring for others. But dehydration leads to: Fatigue Headaches Weakness Poor concentration Keep a reusable bottle with you and sip throughout the day. 2. Pack Small, Nutritious Snacks Healthy eating doesn’t require a full meal every time. Quick, energizing options include: Fruit (apples, berries, bananas) Peanut butter crackers Nuts or trail mix Greek yogurt Granola bars These keep your energy steady during long shifts or study sessions. 3. Stretch Your Body Throughout the Day Caregiving involves lifting, bending, walking, and assisting clients. A few simple stretches can prevent soreness and reduce stress: Shoulder rolls Gentle neck stretches Leg stretches Lower-back stretches Even 2–3 minutes helps your body reset. 4. Prioritize Rest Whenever You Can Caregivers give so much of themselves every day. Rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Try to: Go to bed earlier Take short naps on off-days Avoid scrolling late at night Allow your body to recover A rested caregiver is a more effective caregiver. 5. Protect Your Immune System Winter season brings colds, flu, and fatigue. Strengthen your immune system by: Eating balanced meals Washing hands frequently Wearing masks when needed Staying warm and dry Taking vitamins if approved by your doctor Prevention is always easier than treatment. 6. Make Time for Mental Health Your emotional well-being matters. Try: Listening to calming music Journaling your feelings Talking to someone you trust Taking a quiet walk Practicing gratitude A healthy mind supports a healthy body. Your Health Matters, Too As a caregiver or student, it’s easy to focus on everyone else. But the truth is: You can’t pour from an empty cup. The stronger and healthier you feel, the better you can care for the people who rely on you. 📞 Interested in becoming an HHA or CNA? Call 718-480-1804 Taking care of others begins with taking care of your self 💛
As the holiday season approaches, most people prepare for family gatherings, warm meals, and festive moments. But for many Home Health Aides (HHAs), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), and students in healthcare training, the holidays look a little different. Caregivers continue to show up—bringing comfort, support, and companionship to those who need it most. At Fordham Institute Inc. , we see the dedication and heart our students carry into their work. The holidays can be an emotional time for clients and patients, and caregivers play an important role in making this season feel safe, warm, and meaningful. 1. Providing Emotional Support Not every client has family nearby. Some may feel lonely or emotional during the holiday season. HHAs and CNAs help fill that gap by offering companionship, conversation, and genuine kindness. A simple smile, a warm greeting, or a few minutes spent listening can make someone feel valued and seen. 2. Keeping Daily Routines Comfortable Even during the holidays, clients still rely on caregivers for assistance with daily activities. Caregivers help: Maintain comfort Ensure proper nutrition Assist with mobility and personal care Support clients with their routines These everyday tasks make a big difference in a client’s quality of life—especially at a time when consistency and comfort matter most. 3. Bringing Warmth Into the Home Many caregivers naturally bring holiday cheer to their work—wearing cheerful colors, speaking with warmth, or sharing gentle positivity. Small gestures—helping decorate a small area, encouraging a festive activity, or simply being present—can brighten a client’s whole season. 4. Staying Reliable & Professional While others take time off, caregivers continue to serve. HHAs and CNAs show incredible dedication by balancing their personal lives with their responsibility to clients. Their consistency provides families with peace of mind and clients with stability. 5. Finding Meaning in the Season Caregiving teaches compassion, patience, and gratitude. Many caregivers say the holidays remind them why they chose this path: To make a real difference in someone’s life. To bring comfort during difficult times. To offer warmth when someone needs it most. A Heartfelt Thank You To every HHA, CNA, and student caregiver—your work matters more than you know. You bring dignity, comfort, and joy to the people who depend on you, especially during the holidays. 📞 Want to start a career in caregiving? Call 718-480-1804 This season, we honor the caregivers who give their heart, even on the busiest days of the year 💛