Exam Format, Written + Skills Blueprint Map

Quick Answer: New York CNAs must pass both a 70-question Prometric written exam (60 scored, 70% = 42 correct) and a five-skill clinical test where every critical step must be performed correctly—within 24 months of finishing NYS-approved training.

The Two-Part NY Competency Evaluation

New York certifies nursing home nurse aides through the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) Nurse Aide Registry. The competency exam is delivered by Prometric using the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) blueprint. You are not registry-eligible until you pass both the knowledge test and the skills evaluation.

Think of the exam as a gate with two locks. Passing the written test alone does not certify you. Passing skills alone does not certify you. Prometric reports results to NYSDOH, and registry placement follows successful completion of both portions plus background clearance.

Written (or Oral) Knowledge Test

The pretest questions do not count toward your score, but you cannot identify them on screen. Treat every question as scored. With 90 minutes for 70 items, you have a little over one minute per question—enough time if you know the decision rules (scope, safety, dignity, report).

Clinical Skills Evaluation

The NNAAP model is strict on Critical Element Steps (printed in bold on the evaluator checklist). A single missed critical step fails that entire skill—and you must pass all five.

Written Exam Blueprint Weights

Prometric also clusters items into Physical Care Skills (~61%), Psychosocial Care Skills (~13%), and Role of the Nurse Aide (~26%) on score reports.

Fees, Scheduling, and Retakes

Schedule through Prometric.com (Nurse Aide – New York). Bring acceptable photo ID and arrive early. If you pass skills but fail written, you retake only the knowledge portion within the 24-month window.

The 23 NNAAP Skills Pool (NY)

Prometric draws your five skills from a fixed list. Know every skill's critical steps—not just your favorites:

Indirect care (introduction, privacy, hand hygiene, safety, call light) is scored on every skill. In New York, you may be paired with another candidate as a resident role-player—treat them exactly as you would a real resident.

Study Allocation Strategy

1. Weeks 1–2: Role, registry, infection control—foundation for every topic.
2. Weeks 3–5: Basic nursing skills (35%)—vital signs through nutrition.
3. Weeks 4–6: Personal care (22%)—bathing through elimination.
4. Ongoing: Drill all 23 NNAAP skills until closing steps are automatic.
5. Final week: Mixed practice tests at the 70% threshold; one full 90-minute run.

Exam-Day Decision Filter

Worked Scenario

Stem: "A resident oral temperature is 101.4°F (38.6°C). What should the nurse aide do first?"

This is an abnormal vital sign. The CNA does not medicate or diagnose. The first action is report to the nurse immediately and stay with the resident as directed. Documenting at end of shift or offering ice water before reporting are classic traps.

NYSDOH Registry Connection

After passing both portions, Prometric transmits results to NYSDOH. Your name appears on the public Nurse Aide Registry only when written/oral + skills + fingerprint clearance are complete. Employers verify registry status before first shift—exam success and registry listing are separate checkpoints.

Common Traps

• Choosing independent clinical judgment over reporting
• Performing tasks outside scope (medicating, changing oxygen flow)
• Ignoring hand hygiene on skills because it is not a standalone listed skill
• Studying only written content and under-practicing five-skill timing
• Scheduling skills before you can perform all 23 skills within the 30-minute window

Your goal is simultaneous readiness: 42/60 on paper and zero missed critical steps on skills.