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!

Fall Health Check: 5 Ways Caregivers Can Strengthen Their Immune System

By Fordham Institute Inc. • October 10, 2025
As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, many people begin to feel the effects of seasonal changes—especially caregivers who spend long hours helping others. For Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), staying healthy isn’t just important for yourself—it’s essential for the people who depend on you. At Fordham Institute Inc., we remind our students that a strong immune system is one of the best tools you can have as a caregiver. Here are five simple ways to protect your health and keep your energy strong this fall. 1. Fuel Your Body with Nourishing Foods A balanced diet helps your body fight off illness and maintain energy. Include: Vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables like oranges, spinach, and bell peppers Protein sources such as eggs, beans, or chicken to support muscle strength Whole grains to keep your energy steady throughout long shifts Try to plan meals ahead of time so you’re not relying on quick, processed foods. 2. Stay Hydrated Cooler weather often makes people forget to drink water, but hydration is key to a strong immune system. Keep a reusable bottle with you and sip throughout the day. Herbal teas and soups also help keep you warm and hydrated. 3. Prioritize Sleep Your body does its best healing while you rest. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, and try to maintain a consistent bedtime. Even short naps during breaks can help you recharge. 4. Keep Moving Exercise boosts circulation and supports your immune system. You don’t need a gym—try stretching in the morning, taking short walks, or doing simple at-home workouts. Movement keeps your energy flowing and stress levels low. 5. Manage Stress Caregiving is rewarding but can be emotionally demanding. High stress weakens your immune response. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or listening to calming music. Protecting your peace protects your health. Your Health Comes First Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself allows you to give better care to others. This fall, commit to strengthening your body and mind—you deserve to feel your best.  📞 Ready to begin your career in caregiving? Call 718-480-1804 🌐 Visit www.FordhamInstitute.com for HHA and CNA training programs. Because strong caregivers create stronger communities 🍁

How to Stay Positive When You’re Balancing Work and Classes

By Fordham Institute Inc. • October 9, 2025
Being a caregiver or a student in healthcare training takes strength, patience, and dedication. Many Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) juggle work, school, and personal responsibilities all at once—and while it’s rewarding, it can also feel overwhelming at times. At Fordham Institute Inc., we see every day how determination and positivity help our students push through challenges and succeed. Here are some simple ways to stay motivated and keep your mindset strong while balancing it all. 1. Focus on Your “Why” When the days get busy and tiring, remind yourself why you started. Are you building a better future for yourself or your family? Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life? Your reason is your anchor—it keeps you grounded and focused when things feel heavy. 2. Celebrate Small Wins Not every day will go perfectly, and that’s okay. Finishing an assignment, attending class after a long day, or learning a new skill are all accomplishments worth celebrating. Each step moves you closer to your goal. 3. Surround Yourself with Support It helps to talk with classmates, instructors, or coworkers who understand what you’re going through. Sometimes, a quick conversation or shared laugh can turn a stressful day around. 4. Take Short Breaks Even five minutes can make a difference. Step outside, stretch, breathe deeply, or listen to your favorite song. Recharging your mind keeps your energy steady and your outlook positive. 5. Replace Pressure with Progress It’s easy to feel pressure to do everything perfectly—but progress is what truly matters. Focus on showing up, learning, and improving one day at a time. 6. Remember: You’re Doing Something Amazing Balancing work and school isn’t easy—but it’s a sign of your strength and determination. You’re not just learning a skill; you’re building a career that helps others and creates a better life for yourself. Keep Going—You’re Closer Than You Think Positivity doesn’t mean pretending everything is easy—it means believing you have the power to overcome challenges. Every day you keep going, you prove just how capable you are.  📞 Ready to take the next step in your training? Call 718-480-1804 Because staying positive isn’t about ignoring challenges—it’s about rising above them

New Month, New Motivation: Setting Goals for October

By Fordham Institute Inc. • October 8, 2025
A new month is like a fresh page waiting to be written—and October brings the perfect chance to realign, refocus, and renew your energy. Whether you’re a Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in training or already working in the field, setting clear goals helps you stay motivated and intentional throughout the season. At Fordham Institute Inc., we believe every new month is an opportunity to grow—professionally, emotionally, and personally. Here’s how to make the most of October and step confidently toward your goals. 1. Reflect on How Far You’ve Come Before setting new goals, take a moment to look back. What did you accomplish last month—big or small? What challenges did you overcome? What lessons did you learn? Recognizing progress, even in small steps, builds confidence and keeps motivation strong. 2. Set Realistic and Focused Goals Your goals don’t have to be big to be meaningful. Maybe you want to: Improve your time management during training Eat healthier meals while working long hours Learn one new skill in your CNA or HHA studies Write your goals down and keep them visible—seeing them daily helps turn them into habits. 3. Create Structure with Small Steps Break larger goals into smaller, achievable actions. For example, if your goal is to study more consistently, set aside just 30 minutes a day. Small steps lead to lasting success. 4. Make Time for Self-Care Fall can be a busy season, but caring for yourself keeps your motivation alive. Go for a short walk, take a relaxing bath, or listen to your favorite song before bed. A calm mind leads to clearer focus. 5. Celebrate Progress Along the Way You don’t need to wait until the end of the month to feel proud. Celebrate little victories—a completed class, a great study day, or even making it through a tough week. Every win deserves recognition. Start Strong, Stay Steady October is more than just another month—it’s a chance to grow stronger, wiser, and more confident in your journey. The goals you set today shape the success you’ll celebrate tomorrow.  📞 Ready to start your next step in healthcare training? Call 718-480-1804 Because every new month is a new beginning—so make this one count. 🎯