21 CNA Skills Checklist
The ultimate guide to the clinical skills portion of your exam.
Official Skills List (2026 Updated)
Check off each skill as you master it.
1. Hand Hygiene (Handwashing)
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Must wash for 20 seconds. Do not re-contaminate hands on faucet.
2. Apply One Knee-High Elastic Stocking
Key Tip: Smooth out all wrinkles. Heel must be correctly positioned.
3. Ambulate with Transfer Belt
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Lock wheelchair brakes. Ensure feet are flat before standing.
4. Assist to Bedpan
Key Tip: Position bedpan correctly. Provide privacy and hand wipes.
5. Clean Dentures
Key Tip: Line sink with towel. Use cool water.
6. Count and Record Radial Pulse
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Must be within +/- 4 beats of evaluator.
7. Count and Record Respirations
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Must be within +/- 2 breaths of evaluator.
8. Donning and Doffing PPE
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Remove gloves first. Do not touch outside of gown.
9. Dress Client with Affected Right Arm
Key Tip: Dress affected side FIRST. Undress affected side LAST.
10. Feed Client who Cannot Feed Self
Key Tip: Verify name. Sit upright (75-90 degrees).
11. Give Modified Bed Bath
Key Tip: Wash eyes inner to outer. Use different leaf of washcloth.
12. Measure and Record Blood Pressure
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Must be within +/- 6-8 mmHg of evaluator.
13. Measure and Record Urinary Output
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Place flat. Read at eye level. Wash hands after.
14. Measure and Record Weight
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Zero scale first. Record to nearest 1/4 lb.
15. Perform Passive Range of Motion (Knee/Ankle)
Key Tip: Support joints. Do not cause pain.
16. Perform Passive Range of Motion (Shoulder)
Key Tip: Support joints. Stop if client complains of pain.
17. Position on Side
Key Tip: Use 3 pillows (head, back, legs). Ensure shoulder is not compressed.
18. Provide Catheter Care
Key Tip: Hold catheter at meatus. Clean 4 inches away.
19. Provide Foot Care
Key Tip: Inspect for sores. Dry between toes thoroughly.
20. Mouth Care
Key Tip: Brush all surfaces. Clean tongue.
21. Perineal Care (Female)
Critical Steps insideKey Tip: Clean front to back ONLY. Use different part of washcloth for each stroke.
Don't Forget the Written Exam
Mastering the skills is only half the battle. You need to pass the 60-70 question written test too.