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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 practiced skills and the details evaluators tend to look for.

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Prefer to read first? Read the free skills test guide

Always follow your official requirements.Skills and evaluation criteria vary by state and by training program. This checklist is a general study aid — always follow your official state and program skills requirements and your instructor’s guidance.

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

Interactive & PDF soon

Hand hygiene

  • Handwashing with soap and water

    Wet, lather and scrub at least 20 seconds, rinse, dry, and turn off the faucet with a towel.

  • Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer

  • Hand hygiene before and after resident contact

PPE / infection control

  • Putting on and removing gloves

    Remove without touching the outside, then dispose of them properly.

  • Applying and removing a gown and mask

    Follow the correct order to avoid contamination.

  • Following standard precautions

Measuring vital signs

  • Measuring a radial pulse

  • Counting respirations

  • Measuring blood pressure

  • Measuring temperature

  • Recording and reporting readings

Transfers and ambulation

  • Using safe body mechanics

  • Ambulating a resident with a gait belt

  • Transferring from bed to wheelchair

  • Positioning a resident on their side

Feeding assistance

  • Preparing the resident and environment for a meal

  • Assisting a resident with eating and drinking

  • Watching for swallowing difficulty and comfort

Personal care

  • Partial bed bath

  • Mouth care and denture care

  • Perineal care

  • Dressing a resident with a weak side

    Dress the affected (weak) side first.

  • Foot and nail care

Safety and emergency response

  • Fall prevention and responding safely to a fall

  • Keeping the call light within reach

  • Recognizing an emergency and getting help

  • Keeping the environment safe and clutter-free

Resident rights and communication

  • Providing for privacy and dignity during care

  • Explaining the procedure before starting

  • Respecting resident preferences and choices

  • Communicating clearly and listening

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.

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