Passing the written portion of the Florida CNA state exam is achievable with the right preparation. Here are the top 10 tips to help you succeed:
1. Focus on Frequently Tested Topics
Prometric repeats certain subjects consistently. Study these areas closely:
- Handwashing
- Resident rights
- Abuse vs. neglect
- Infection control
- Safety and fall prevention
- Vital signs
- Communication and privacy
- Body mechanics and transferring
- Warning signs that must be reported immediately
2. Understand “First” and “Most Important” Priorities
Many questions ask what the CNA should do first, next, or best. Always prioritize:
Safety → Infection Control → Resident Needs → Report and Document
3. Memorize Normal Vital Sign Ranges
Know these ranges by heart:
- Temperature (oral): 97.6–99.6°F
- Pulse: 60–100 bpm
- Respirations: 12–20 per minute
- Blood pressure: 90/60–140/90
If values fall outside these ranges, the correct action is to report to the nurse.
4. Answer as a CNA—Not as a Nurse
The exam tests your scope of practice. Never choose answers that involve diagnosing, changing treatment, or giving medications.
Never select:
- Increasing oxygen flow
- Changing a dressing
- Giving medication
- Explaining a diagnosis to family
Instead, choose:
- Report to the nurse
- Observe and document
5. Prioritize Infection Control
When unsure, choose the safest option. Key rules include:
- Wear gloves when body fluids are involved
- Wash hands before and after resident contact
- Never shake linens
- Never place linens on the floor
6. Read Every Question Carefully
Watch for keywords like except, first, best, or most important. These can completely change the correct answer.
7. Use the Process of Elimination
Eliminate answers that are:
- Unsafe
- Outside CNA duties
- Unrelated to the question
- Too extreme
8. Resident Rights Are Almost Always Correct
When in doubt, choose answers that promote:
- Privacy
- Dignity
- Respect
- Independence
- Choice
Examples include explaining procedures, closing curtains, asking permission, and offering options.
9. Know the Difference Between Abuse and Neglect
- Abuse: Intentional harm (hitting, yelling, sexual misconduct)
- Neglect: Failure to provide care (not feeding, ignoring call lights, not repositioning)
The correct response is always to report immediately to the nurse and follow facility policy.
10. Practice Prometric-Style Questions
Familiarity with Prometric’s wording and format builds confidence and reduces test-day anxiety.
CNA Kwik Track makes studying for the written exam simple and effective. Our CNA prep course includes a detailed study guide, practice quizzes using Prometric-style questions, and in-person hands-on training for all 22 clinical skills tested on the exam.
Book your course today and prepare with confidence.