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200+ Free Missouri CNA Practice Questions

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Under Missouri DHSS regulations, a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) training program must consist of at least how many hours of training?

A
B
C
D
to track
2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Missouri CNA Exam

75

Classroom Training Hours

Missouri DHSS

100

On-the-Job Training Hours

Missouri DHSS

75

Written Exam Questions

Headmaster

24 mo

Certification Period

Missouri DHSS

8 hrs

Paid Work Required to Renew

Per 24 months

5

Content Domains

Headmaster outline

Missouri requires 75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of on-the-job training (175 total hours). The exam is administered by Headmaster/D&S and covers five domains: Role of the Nurse Aide (18%), Promotion of Safety (19%), Basic Nursing Care (21%), Function and Health of Residents (21%), and Specialized Care (21%). Certification renewal requires at least 8 hours of paid employment every 24 months. CNAs can apply for reciprocity if certified in another state.

Sample Missouri CNA Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Missouri CNA exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 200+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Under Missouri DHSS regulations, a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) training program must consist of at least how many hours of training?
A.50 hours
B.75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of on-the-job training
C.120 hours
D.160 hours
Explanation: Missouri requires a state-approved CNA course to consist of 75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of on-the-job training (total 175 hours). This is established under Section 198.082, RSMo, and the Omnibus Nursing Home Act. Some sources indicate minimum requirements of 75 classroom + 100 clinical hours, though specific program hours may vary.
2A Missouri CNA is preparing to take the competency examination. Who administers the CNA written and skills tests in Missouri?
A.Missouri State Board of Nursing
B.Prometric
C.Headmaster/D&S Diversified Technologies
D.Pearson VUE
Explanation: Missouri contracts with Headmaster/D&S Diversified Technologies (D&S) to administer the CNA competency examination. The exam consists of a written (or oral) test and a skills evaluation. Candidates can find information and schedule testing through the Headmaster TMU (Test Management Utility) system.
3A CNA in Missouri notices that a resident has developed a Stage 2 pressure injury. The CNA should:
A.Apply antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile dressing
B.Document the finding and report it immediately to the nurse
C.Reposition the resident and monitor for 24 hours before reporting
D.Clean the wound with hydrogen peroxide and report at the end of the shift
Explanation: CNAs are responsible for observing and reporting changes in resident condition. A Stage 2 pressure injury (partial-thickness skin loss) must be reported to the nurse immediately. CNAs cannot treat wounds independently — that is outside their scope of practice. The nurse will assess the wound and obtain physician orders for treatment.
4Which of the following is within the scope of practice for a Missouri CNA?
A.Administering oral medications as directed by the nurse
B.Inserting a urinary catheter with supervision
C.Assisting with activities of daily living and reporting observations
D.Changing sterile wound dressings
Explanation: CNAs may assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and toileting. They are also responsible for observing and reporting changes in resident condition. Administering medications, inserting catheters, and changing sterile dressings are outside the CNA scope of practice in Missouri and require licensed nursing intervention.
5A Missouri CNA is asked by a family member to explain the resident's diagnosis and treatment plan. The CNA should:
A.Provide a general explanation based on what the CNA has observed
B.Refer the family member to the nurse or physician
C.Show the family member the resident's chart
D.Explain the diagnosis but not the treatment plan
Explanation: Explaining diagnoses and treatment plans is outside the CNA's scope of practice. CNAs must refer family members to the nurse or physician for medical information. Additionally, HIPAA privacy regulations restrict who can access and discuss protected health information. Only authorized healthcare team members may discuss medical details with family.
6How often must a Missouri CNA renew their certification?
A.Every year
B.Every two years
C.Every three years
D.Certification does not expire in Missouri
Explanation: Missouri CNAs must renew their certification every two years. To renew, CNAs must provide documentation of at least 8 hours of paid employment performing nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse during the 24-month certification period. This employment requirement ensures competency is maintained through practice.
7A CNA who is certified in another state and in good standing wants to work in Missouri. What must they do?
A.Take the full Missouri CNA course and exam
B.Apply for reciprocity with Missouri
C.Work for 6 months before transferring certification
D.Take only the Missouri state law portion of the exam
Explanation: CNAs certified in another state who are in good standing can apply for reciprocity with Missouri. Once the application is approved, they can log into the Headmaster TMU system and print their Missouri CNA certificate. This process allows qualified CNAs from other states to work in Missouri without repeating the full training program.
8What is the primary purpose of the Missouri CNA competency examination?
A.To fulfill federal Medicare requirements
B.To demonstrate minimum knowledge and skills for safe patient care
C.To qualify for a nursing school admission
D.To meet insurance reimbursement standards
Explanation: The Missouri CNA competency examination (administered by Headmaster/D&S) is designed to ensure that nurse assistants demonstrate minimum knowledge and skills required to provide safe and effective patient care. The exam aligns with the Omnibus Nursing Home Act and federal OBRA requirements for nursing home staff competency.
9A Missouri CNA wants to "challenge" the CNA exam without taking the training course. According to Missouri regulations:
A.Anyone can challenge the exam without restrictions
B.Only those who meet specific challenge requirements can attempt it, with only one chance to pass
C.Challenging the exam is not allowed in Missouri
D.Nursing students can challenge after completing one clinical rotation
Explanation: Missouri allows certain individuals to challenge the CNA exam if they meet specific requirements. However, if a candidate fails the challenge exam, they must complete the full CNA course and pass both portions of the exam to become certified. This "one chance" policy emphasizes the importance of proper training.
10Which of the following best describes the CNA's role in the healthcare team?
A.The CNA works independently with minimal supervision
B.The CNA provides direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed nurse
C.The CNA supervises other CNAs and makes care decisions
D.The CNA manages the nursing unit in the absence of the nurse
Explanation: The CNA provides direct patient care (bathing, dressing, feeding, vital signs, etc.) under the supervision of a licensed nurse (LPN or RN). CNAs are essential members of the healthcare team but do not work independently, supervise other staff, or make independent clinical decisions. Their work is directed and overseen by licensed nursing staff.

About the Missouri CNA Exam

The Missouri CNA competency exam is administered by Headmaster/D&S Diversified Technologies on behalf of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). The exam has two parts: a written test (75 questions) and a clinical skills test. Missouri requires completion of a state-approved CNA training program consisting of 75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of on-the-job training under Section 198.082, RSMo and the Omnibus Nursing Home Act.

Questions

75 scored questions

Time Limit

90 min written + skills

Passing Score

Pass on written + 100% skills steps

Exam Fee

~$115 (varies by testing site) (Headmaster / D&S Diversified Technologies (Missouri DHSS))

Missouri CNA Exam Content Outline

18%

Role of the Nurse Aide

Scope of practice, Missouri DHSS regulations, OBRA, CNA training requirements, reporting, delegation, professionalism, legal/ethical issues

19%

Promotion of Safety

Infection control, standard precautions, PPE, fire safety (RACE), body mechanics, fall prevention, emergency response, disaster preparedness

21%

Basic Nursing Care

Vital signs, positioning, transfers, range of motion, personal care, nutrition, hydration, elimination, skin care, restorative care

21%

Function and Health of Residents

Disease processes, aging, mental health, cognitive impairment, observations, reporting changes, end-of-life care

21%

Specialized Care

Specific care for residents with special needs: diabetes, dementia, stroke, developmental disabilities, rehabilitation, hospice

How to Pass the Missouri CNA Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: Pass on written + 100% skills steps
  • Exam length: 75 questions
  • Time limit: 90 min written + skills
  • Exam fee: ~$115 (varies by testing site)

Keys to Passing

  • Complete 500+ practice questions
  • Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
  • Focus on highest-weighted sections
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

Missouri CNA Study Tips from Top Performers

1Know Missouri training requirements: 75 hours classroom + 100 hours on-the-job training (175 total)
2Understand Headmaster testing: 75 questions covering 5 content domains
3Memorize the RACE fire safety protocol: Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish/Evacuate
4Know mandatory reporting: Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1-800-392-0210
5Review Section 198.082 RSMo and the Omnibus Nursing Home Act
6Practice infection control: hand hygiene, PPE donning/doffing, standard precautions
7Understand resident rights under OBRA and Missouri law
8Know that 8 hours of paid employment is required every 24 months for renewal

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Missouri CNA exam?

The Missouri CNA competency exam is administered by Headmaster/D&S Diversified Technologies on behalf of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). The written exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions covering the five content domains. The clinical skills test requires demonstrating competency in specific nursing assistant skills.

What are the training requirements for Missouri CNAs?

Missouri requires completion of a state-approved CNA training program consisting of 75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of on-the-job training (175 total hours) under Section 198.082, RSMo and the Omnibus Nursing Home Act. Training programs must be approved by the Missouri DHSS.

How do I renew my Missouri CNA certification?

Missouri CNAs must renew their certification every 24 months. To renew, you must provide documentation of at least 8 hours of paid employment performing nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse during the 24-month certification period. Contact the DHSS Health Education Unit at 573-526-5686 for renewal information.

Can I transfer my CNA certification from another state to Missouri?

Yes. If you are currently certified in another state and in good standing, you can apply for reciprocity with Missouri. Once your application is approved, you may log into the Headmaster TMU system and print your Missouri CNA certificate. Contact the Missouri DHSS for specific reciprocity requirements.

What if my Missouri CNA certification has lapsed?

If your Missouri CNA certification has lapsed due to failure to meet the employment requirements, you may need to retake the competency examination or complete additional training depending on how long your certification has been inactive. Contact the Missouri DHSS Health Education Unit at 573-526-5686 for guidance on reinstatement.

How do I report suspected abuse or neglect in Missouri?

Missouri CNAs are mandatory reporters of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults. Reports can be made to the Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-0210. In emergencies, call 911. You must also report to your supervisor. Failure to report is a violation of Missouri law.