200+ Free Tennessee CNA Practice Questions

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Question 1

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When taking an oral temperature, how long should a Tennessee CNA wait after a resident drinks hot coffee before measuring?

5 minutes

10 minutes

15-20 minutes

No waiting is necessary

to track

2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Tennessee CNA Exam

100

Knowledge Test Questions

Headmaster / TN HFC (as of Oct 2024)

90 min

Knowledge Test Time

Headmaster (100 questions)

5 tasks

Clinical Skills Required

Headmaster / TN HFC

$98

Knowledge Exam Fee

Headmaster 2026 ($30 + fees)

75 hrs

Training Required

TN DOH

24 months

Testing Window

TN HFC

Tennessee uses Headmaster/D&S to administer its CNA competency exam — 100 questions in 90 minutes with a 75% passing threshold (75/100 correct). The clinical skills portion requires demonstrating 5 randomly selected skills (handwashing always included) with 80% accuracy required. Knowledge exam fees are approximately $98 ($30 knowledge + test site fees); skills test fees vary by site. Candidates have 24 months from training completion to pass both exams. Tennessee requires 75 hours of training (minimum 16 hours clinical). The Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry is maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health; CNAs must perform at least 8 hours of paid work every 24 months to remain active.

Sample Tennessee CNA Practice Questions

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

1When taking an oral temperature, how long should a Tennessee CNA wait after a resident drinks hot coffee before measuring?

A.5 minutes

B.10 minutes

C.15-20 minutes

D.No waiting is necessary

Explanation: The CNA should wait 15-20 minutes after a resident consumes hot or cold beverages before taking an oral temperature. Hot beverages can temporarily elevate oral temperature readings, leading to inaccurate results. This is a key point tested on the Headmaster/D&S Tennessee CNA exam.

2A Tennessee CNA is measuring a resident's radial pulse. The normal adult pulse rate is 60-100 beats per minute. The CNA counts 30 beats in 15 seconds. What is the pulse rate?

A.60 beats per minute

B.90 beats per minute

C.120 beats per minute

D.150 beats per minute

Explanation: To calculate the pulse rate: 30 beats × 4 (to convert 15 seconds to 60 seconds/1 minute) = 120 beats per minute. This is tachycardia (above normal range) and should be reported to the nurse. Accurate vital sign measurement is a core skill tested on the Tennessee CNA exam administered by Headmaster/D&S.

3When measuring respirations, the Tennessee CNA should:

A.Tell the resident they are being observed

B.Count for 15 seconds and multiply by 4 for all residents

C.Count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2 if regular, or 60 seconds if irregular

D.Estimate based on the resident's appearance

Explanation: Respirations are typically counted for 30 seconds and multiplied by 2 when regular, or for a full 60 seconds if irregular, unusually fast, or unusually slow. The resident should not be aware their breathing is being counted, as awareness can cause involuntary changes in breathing pattern. The CNA often counts respirations while appearing to continue taking the pulse.

4A resident's blood pressure is 188/110 mmHg. According to Tennessee CNA scope of practice, the CNA should:

A.Recheck in 30 minutes to see if it improves

B.Document the reading and report it to the nurse immediately

C.Administer the resident's prescribed blood pressure medication

D.Position the resident flat and elevate their legs

Explanation: A blood pressure of 188/110 mmHg is significantly elevated (Stage 2 hypertension) and must be reported to the nurse immediately after being recorded. CNAs cannot administer medications or make clinical decisions - those are outside the CNA scope of practice. Prompt reporting of abnormal vital signs is essential for resident safety and is emphasized in Tennessee CNA training programs approved by the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission.

5When applying anti-embolism stockings (TED hose), the Tennessee CNA should apply them:

A.After the resident has been up walking for 30 minutes

B.Before the resident gets out of bed in the morning

C.Only when the nurse specifically requests it

D.After soaking the resident's feet in warm water

Explanation: Anti-embolism stockings should be applied before the resident gets out of bed, before standing. When a person stands, blood pools in the legs and veins dilate. Applying stockings after standing is less effective because veins are already distended. The stockings help prevent blood clots by maintaining compression on veins in their normal resting state. This is a key skill tested on the Tennessee CNA skills exam.

6A Tennessee CNA is measuring intake and output (I&O) for a resident on fluid restriction. The resident drinks 6 oz of water, 4 oz of juice, and 1 cup of coffee. What is the total intake in mL?

A.240 mL

B.360 mL

C.420 mL

D.480 mL

Explanation: Calculation: 6 oz water (6 × 30 = 180 mL) + 4 oz juice (4 × 30 = 120 mL) + 1 cup coffee (240 mL) = 540 mL. Wait - let me recalculate: The correct answer is 420 mL if the coffee cup is 4 oz, or 540 mL if 8 oz. Standard conversion: 1 oz = 30 mL, 1 cup = 240 mL. If 6 oz + 4 oz + 8 oz (1 cup) = 18 oz = 540 mL. The correct calculation for this question: 6 oz (180 mL) + 4 oz (120 mL) + 1 cup (240 mL) = 540 mL. However, the answer options suggest 420 mL (14 oz total), indicating the coffee may have been 4 oz. Accurate I&O measurement is critical for residents with heart failure or kidney disease.

7When weighing a resident using a standing scale, the Tennessee CNA should:

A.Weigh the resident at different times each day for consistency

B.Weigh the resident at the same time each day, in similar clothing

C.Subtract 5 pounds to account for clothing weight

D.Have the resident hold onto the CNA for balance

Explanation: For accurate weight measurements, the resident should be weighed at the same time each day (preferably before breakfast), wearing similar clothing, and using the same scale. Weight should be recorded to the nearest pound or tenth of a kilogram as specified by facility policy. Consistent technique is essential for detecting clinically significant weight changes, which can indicate fluid retention, malnutrition, or other health issues.

8A Tennessee CNA notices a resident's output from a urinary catheter is dark amber and concentrated. The CNA should:

A.Irrigate the catheter to clear the blockage

B.Increase the resident's fluid intake independently

C.Document the observation and report to the nurse

D.Change the catheter drainage bag immediately

Explanation: Dark, concentrated urine may indicate dehydration or other medical concerns. The CNA should document the observation (color, amount, clarity) and report it to the nurse. CNAs cannot irrigate catheters, independently increase fluid orders, or change catheter equipment without proper training and authorization. Accurate observation and reporting are key CNA responsibilities emphasized in Tennessee training programs.

9When performing passive range of motion (PROM) exercises for a resident, the Tennessee CNA should:

A.Move the joint quickly to build strength

B.Move the joint beyond the point of resistance to improve flexibility

C.Support the joint above and below, move to the point of resistance, hold, and return

D.Only exercise the joints on the affected side of the body

Explanation: Proper PROM technique involves supporting the joint proximal and distal to the area being exercised, moving the joint to the point of resistance (not pain), holding briefly (5-10 seconds), and returning to the starting position. Going beyond resistance can cause injury. All joints should be exercised bilaterally unless contraindicated. PROM helps maintain joint mobility and prevent contractures.

10According to Tennessee CNA training standards, which position is used to prevent aspiration during feeding?

A.Supine (lying flat on back)

B.Trendelenburg (head lower than feet)

C.High Fowler's (45-90 degrees upright)

D.Prone (lying on stomach)

Explanation: High Fowler's position (45-90 degrees upright) is the correct position for feeding to prevent aspiration. This position uses gravity to help food move down the esophagus and reduces the risk of food or liquids entering the trachea. Residents with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) may need to remain upright for 30 minutes after eating as well. Aspiration prevention is a critical safety skill for Tennessee CNAs.

About the Tennessee CNA Exam

The Tennessee CNA competency evaluation has two parts: a 100-question Knowledge Test (90 minutes) and a Clinical Skills Test (5 randomly selected tasks). Passing lists you on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health. Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies) administers the exam on behalf of the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission (HFC). Effective October 21, 2024, the knowledge exam increased from 75 to 100 questions.

Questions

100 scored questions

Time Limit

90 min knowledge + skills test (5 tasks)

Passing Score

75% knowledge (75/100) + 80% skills

Exam Fee

$98 (knowledge $30 + skills varies) + $40 test site fee (Headmaster / D&S Diversified Technologies (Tennessee HFC))

Tennessee CNA Exam Content Outline

10%

Basic Nursing Skills (10 questions)

Vital signs, positioning, transfers, ROM, nutrition, I&O, body mechanics, bed making, catheter care, specimen collection

10%

Role & Responsibility (10 questions)

CNA role, delegation, scope of practice, professionalism, reporting, documentation, chain of command, Tennessee HFC regulations

10%

Mental Health (10 questions)

Depression, anxiety, mental illness, coping behaviors, cultural factors, end-of-life emotional support, grief

10%

Resident Rights (10 questions)

OBRA rights, privacy, dignity, right to refuse, advance directives, HIPAA, grievance process, ombudsman, abuse/neglect reporting

10%

Safety & Emergency (10 questions)

Fall prevention, body mechanics, emergency procedures, fire safety, equipment safety, RACE/PASS, seizure precautions

Personal Care (9 questions)

Bathing, grooming, dressing, perineal care, oral hygiene, nail care, elimination, bedpan/urinal use, skin care

Communication (8 questions)

Therapeutic communication, reporting changes, documentation, SBAR, family interaction, cultural competency, barriers to communication

Infection Control (8 questions)

Standard precautions, transmission-based precautions, hand hygiene, PPE usage, sterile technique, bloodborne pathogens

Disease Process (7 questions)

Common diseases, chronic conditions, warning signs, complications, observation and reporting related to disease processes

Care of Cognitively Impaired (6 questions)

Dementia care, Alzheimer's, cognitive impairment, wandering, sundowning, validation therapy, behavioral interventions

Aging Process & Restorative Care (6 questions)

Normal aging changes, age-related conditions, psychosocial aspects of aging, restorative care, independence promotion

Data Collection (6 questions)

Vital signs measurement, weight measurement, intake/output recording, observation skills, reporting abnormal findings

How to Pass the Tennessee CNA Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: 75% knowledge (75/100) + 80% skills
Exam length: 100 questions
Time limit: 90 min knowledge + skills test (5 tasks)
Exam fee: $98 (knowledge $30 + skills varies) + $40 test site fee

Keys to Passing

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

Tennessee CNA Study Tips from Top Performers

1Know the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission (HFC) — they contract with Headmaster/D&S to administer the exam. The Tennessee Department of Health maintains the Nurse Aide Registry.

2Understand the 75-hour training requirement: 60 classroom + 16 clinical hours (with at least 16 hours of supervised practical training).

3Memorize the 24-month testing window — you must pass both exams within 24 months of completing your training program.

4Know the 75% passing score for the Knowledge Exam (75/100 correct). Focus on the top sections: Basic Nursing Skills, Role & Responsibility, Mental Health, Resident Rights, and Safety (10% each)

5Practice under timed conditions — 100 questions in 90 minutes means less than 1 minute per question.

6Study the 12 Headmaster subject areas — they differ from NNAAP format used in other states. Know the weight of each area.

7Handwashing is ALWAYS one of the 5 clinical skills tested — know every step perfectly including 20+ seconds of friction.

8Understand mandatory reporting in Tennessee — immediate reporting of abuse, neglect, and misappropriation to the nurse supervisor and DOH.

9Focus on delegation and scope of practice questions — Role & Responsibility is 15% of the exam.

10Know the difference between the 24-month testing window and the 24-month renewal cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Tennessee CNA exam?

The Tennessee CNA competency evaluation is administered by Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies LLP) on behalf of the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission (HFC). The Tennessee Department of Health maintains the Nurse Aide Registry.

How many questions are on the Tennessee CNA Knowledge Test?

Effective October 21, 2024, the Tennessee Knowledge Test has 100 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit. You need 75% (75 correct out of 100) to pass. The exam follows the Headmaster format with 12 subject areas. Previously, the exam had 75 questions until this update.

What does the Tennessee CNA Skills Test involve?

You must demonstrate 5 randomly selected skills/tasks. Handwashing is always included and must be performed first. The tasks are ranked by difficulty (Rank I, II, and III). You must complete all critical steps and achieve 80% overall accuracy to pass each skill.

How much does the Tennessee CNA exam cost?

The Knowledge Exam costs $98. The Clinical Skills Test fee varies by testing site. Fees are paid to Headmaster/D&S. Check the current fee schedule on the Headmaster website.

How long do I have to pass the Tennessee CNA exam?

You have 24 months from the date you complete your CNA training program to pass both the Knowledge Exam and Skills Test. If you don't pass within 24 months, you must retake the training program.

How many times can I take the Tennessee CNA exam?

You may attempt each test (Knowledge and Skills) multiple times within the 24-month testing window. There is no specific limit on attempts, but you must pass both portions within 24 months of training completion.

What training is required for Tennessee CNA certification?

Tennessee requires a minimum 75-hour training program: 60 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. The program must be approved by the Tennessee Department of Health.

How do I renew my Tennessee CNA certification?

Tennessee CNAs must renew every 24 months. Requirements include: performing at least 8 hours of paid nursing/nursing-related services and completing any required in-service education. Renewal is processed through the Tennessee Department of Health.

What is mandatory reporting in Tennessee?

Tennessee CNAs are mandatory reporters of abuse, neglect, and misappropriation of resident property. Reports must be made immediately to the nurse supervisor and the Tennessee Department of Health. Failure to report can result in criminal penalties and registry placement.