How the CNA skills test is scored and timed
The rules evaluators score you by: what makes a step critical, when you can correct, how much time you have and how close your measurements must be.
12 guides
- What is a critical element step on the CNA skills test?A critical element (key) step is a checklist step you must perform correctly to pass that skill. How each vendor marks them and how many you can miss.
- Can you correct a mistake during the CNA skills test?Yes, in all three big vendors, but the rules differ: say so, redo only the step, and know when it's too late. Exceptions for gloves, order and safety.
- How long is the CNA skills test?CNA skills test time limits: 30 minutes for 5 skills on Credentia, 31–40 minutes on Florida's Prometric test, 35 minutes on Ohio's D&S test.
- Is handwashing always on the CNA skills test?Handwashing is always tested in NC, VA and GA (Credentia), scored unprompted in TX and FL (Prometric) and built into Ohio's first task. PA is less clear.
- How close do your measurements have to be on the CNA skills test?Allowed difference from the evaluator on pulse, respirations, blood pressure, urine output, weight and intake, for Credentia and D&S Headmaster.
- What is indirect care on the CNA skills test?On Prometric's skills test, Indirect Care is a scored skill covering resident rights, communication, safety, comfort and infection control throughout.
- Do you have to play the patient on the CNA skills test?In many states, yes: candidates act as the resident for each other. What volunteers do, what to wear, and when manikins are used instead.
- What happens if you fail one skill on the CNA skills test?Failing one skill fails the skills test, but you retake only the skills part. Attempt limits in TX, FL, OH and how retests pick your skills.
- How do you record measurements on the CNA skills test?Where measurements go: a digital results box on Credentia's tablet, an I&O form on Prometric, a signed recording form on Ohio's D&S test.
- Do you have to say the steps out loud on the CNA skills test?Talking helps the evaluator, but saying a step is not doing it. Ohio's handbook: verbalized or simulated steps don't count. What you must say.
- CNA skills test videos: which ones are accurate?The accurate skills video is the one that matches your state's current checklist. How to check any video against your handbook in 5 minutes.
- Do you have to do CNA skills steps in order?Credentia NC: perform skills in the order on your card and watch order-dependent steps. Ohio D&S: steps aren't order dependent unless BEFORE/AFTER.
Your state's current candidate handbook is the authority on the skills list, critical steps, tolerances and time limits. We summarize it and link it; check it before test day.
What to do next
The skills test is only half of certification. Practice the written test free, or get the full timed simulator.
You must pass the written test too. Take the free 20-question practice test, or unlock the timed 60-question exam simulator, the full question bank and every skill checklist for $29 one-time (or $9/month).