200+ Free CDN Practice Questions
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Key Facts: CDN Exam
150
Exam Questions
NNCC
70%
Passing Score
Scaled score 95
3 hrs
Exam Duration
NNCC
$350
Exam Fee
NNCC
52%
Hemodialysis
Largest section
3 years
Certification Validity
NNCC
The CDN exam has 150 questions in 3 hours with a passing score of 70% (scaled score 95). The four content areas are: Kidney Disease Concepts (28%), Hemodialysis (52%), Peritoneal Dialysis (16%), and Transplantation/Acute Therapies (4%). Requires RN license and 2,000+ hours nephrology experience. Certification valid for 3 years. Exam fee is $350 ($300 with ANNA membership).
About the CDN Exam
The CDN (Certified Dialysis Nurse) exam validates expertise in dialysis nursing care. It covers kidney disease concepts, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and transplantation/acute therapies. The exam tests knowledge of acute and chronic kidney disease, dialysis principles and procedures, vascular access management, complications, patient education, and professional nursing practice in dialysis settings.
Questions
150 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours
Passing Score
70% (Scaled score 95)
Exam Fee
$350 ($300 with ANNA membership) (NNCC (Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission))
CDN Exam Content Outline
Hemodialysis
Dialysis principles, vascular access, machine operation, treatment delivery, complications management, patient assessment, water treatment, and safety protocols
Kidney Disease Concepts
Acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, electrolyte imbalances, acid-base disorders, anemia management, bone disease, and nutrition
Peritoneal Dialysis
PD modalities, catheter care, infection control, complications, and patient education
Transplantation and Acute Therapies
Transplant basics, immunosuppression, CRRT, and acute dialysis therapies
How to Pass the CDN Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 70% (Scaled score 95)
- Exam length: 150 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Exam fee: $350 ($300 with ANNA membership)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CDN Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CDN certification?
CDN (Certified Dialysis Nurse) is a certification from the NNCC for registered nurses specializing in dialysis nursing. It validates expertise in kidney disease management, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and transplantation/acute therapies in dialysis settings.
How many questions are on the CDN exam?
The CDN exam has 150 multiple-choice questions with a 3-hour time limit. The passing score is 70% (scaled score of 95). Hemodialysis is the largest content area at 52% of the exam.
What are the prerequisites for the CDN exam?
You need an active RN license, at least 2,000 hours of nephrology nursing experience, and 20 contact hours of continuing education in nephrology within the last 3 years. Experience must be within the last 2 years.
What is the most heavily tested topic on the CDN exam?
Hemodialysis accounts for 52% of the exam — more than half of all questions. Focus on dialysis principles, vascular access (AVF, AVG, catheters), machine operation, complications (hypotension, cramping, air embolism), and water treatment.
How should I prepare for the CDN exam?
Plan for 150-200 hours of study. Master hemodialysis principles (52% of exam). Study renal pathophysiology, electrolyte management, and acid-base disorders. Know peritoneal dialysis modalities and complications. Understand transplant basics and CRRT. Complete 200+ practice questions with detailed explanations.