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Skills checklist

Know what the skills test may ask of you

The CNA skills test evaluates hands-on abilities. Use this checklist to review commonly tested skills and the details evaluators look for.

An interactive, checkable version and a downloadable PDF are coming soon. For now, use this as a review reference.

Interactive & PDF soon

Infection control

  • Handwashing

    Wet, soap, rub at least 20 seconds, rinse, dry, turn off faucet with a towel.

  • Putting on and removing gloves

    Remove without touching the outside; dispose properly.

  • Applying and removing PPE

    Follow the correct order and avoid contamination.

Vital signs & measurement

  • Measuring radial pulse

  • Counting respirations

  • Measuring blood pressure

  • Measuring and recording weight

Mobility & positioning

  • Ambulating with a gait belt

  • Transferring from bed to wheelchair

  • Positioning a resident on their side

  • Range-of-motion exercises for a joint

Personal care & ADLs

  • Partial bed bath

  • Mouth care

  • Denture care

  • Perineal care

  • Assisting with feeding

  • Dressing a resident with a weak side

    Dress the affected side first.

  • Foot and nail care

Comfort & safety

  • Making an occupied bed

  • Applying an elastic (anti-embolism) stocking

  • Providing catheter care

  • Measuring and recording urinary output

Rights & communication

  • Providing for privacy during care

  • Explaining the procedure before starting

  • Respecting resident preferences and choices

ReadyCNAReview is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any official CNA testing agency, state nursing board, Prometric, Pearson VUE, Credentia, Headmaster, NNAAP, or any state testing organization.

All content is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace formal CNA training, state-specific requirements, clinical instruction, or official exam materials.

Pair the checklist with realistic practice

Review the skills here, then test your knowledge with the free written practice test.