GNA Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide

Professional female Geriatric Nursing Assistant with fair skin wearing scrubs and smiling in a modern assisted living facility hallway.

Prepare for your Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) career with our comprehensive practice resources. The GNA Exam is a critical step for nursing assistants, particularly in Maryland, verifying your ability to provide safe care to elderly patients.

Our free GNA Practice Test questions cover essential topics found on the GNA Certification exam. Whether you need to understand What Is A GNA or study the difference between GNA vs CNA, our guide helps you succeed.

⏱️
2h
Time Limit
📝
70
Questions
75%
Passing Score
💵
$105
Exam Fee
📊
Skills
Exam Type
🖥️
Varies
Test Format
🔄
2 Yrs
Renewal
🏢
LTC
Setting
📍
MD
Primary State
🩺
Clinical
Focus
💻
Online
Scheduling
🎓
Yes
Training Req

The GNA Certification is specifically required for nursing assistants working in licensed comprehensive care facilities in Maryland. Understanding What Is GNA involves mastering both the written knowledge and practical GNA Skills Test components.

Close-up of a GNA certification exam paper and stethoscope on a desk, with a person having fair skin writing on the paper in a classroom setting.

Free GNA Practice Tests

Start your preparation with our free practice quizzes. These tests cover essential GNA Nursing concepts and practical scenarios to help you pass the GNA Exam.

GNA Exam Flashcards

Quick review of common GNA Test concepts

🩺
What is the primary role of a GNA?
A GNA provides basic nursing care to elderly patients in long-term care facilities under supervision.
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How long should you wash your hands?
At least 20 seconds using friction, soap, and warm water is required for infection control.
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How often must a GNA renew their license?
Every two years, typically requiring 8 hours of paid work and background checks.
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What is a key GNA duty?
Assisting residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and feeding.
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Where is GNA certification required?
It is a specific requirement for working in comprehensive care facilities in the state of Maryland.
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What format is the GNA Exam?
It consists of a written multiple-choice knowledge test and a hands-on clinical skills evaluation.
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GNA Exam Study Guide

This study guide covers everything from GNA Certification Requirements to exam format. Learn What Is A GNA In Healthcare and prepare effectively.

What is a GNA in nursing?A Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) is a CNA who has completed additional certification requirements to work in Maryland's long-term care facilities.
GNA vs CNA: What is the difference?The main Difference Between CNA And GNA is that GNA is a federally mandated certification specific to Maryland nursing homes, whereas CNA is the baseline state certification.
What are common GNA duties?GNA Duties include bathing, dressing, feeding, taking vital signs, and reporting changes in patient conditions to nurses.
What does GNA stand for in nursing?It stands for Geriatric Nursing Assistant, emphasizing care for the elderly population.
What is the GNA test format?The GNA Exam consists of a written (or oral) knowledge test with about 70 questions and a clinical GNA Skills Test where you perform 5 random skills.
How long is the GNA exam?Candidates typically have 2 hours for the written section and about 30-40 minutes for the skills evaluation.
What is covered in the GNA skills test?Skills include hand hygiene, measuring blood pressure, catheter care, ambulation, and position changes.
Is the GNA test hard?With proper GNA Training and practice, most students pass. The skills section requires strict adherence to safety steps.
How to get GNA certification?You must complete an approved GNA Training program, pass the NNAAP exam, and register with the Maryland Board of Nursing.
What are GNA certification requirements?Requirements include completing a 100-hour course, clinical rotation, and passing the background check and GNA Exam.
Where can I find GNA classes?Look for "GNA classes near me" at community colleges, Red Cross centers, and private nursing schools in Maryland.
Can I take the GNA test online?The written portion may be available online, but the GNA Skills Test must be performed in person.
What is the passing score for GNA?You generally need a score of around 70-75% on the written test and must pass all 5 skills in the clinical section.
When do I get GNA results?Results are often available on the same day for skills and within 24-48 hours for the written test.
What happens if I fail the GNA test?You can retake the failed section up to three times before you must retake the entire training program.
How do I verify my GNA license?Use the GNA License lookup tool on the Maryland Board of Nursing website.
What is the average GNA salary?The average GNA Salary ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
Does GNA pay more than CNA?Yes, GNA Salary is often slightly higher than base CNA pay due to the additional federal certification requirement.
What are GNA job prospects?Demand is high for GNA Nursing professionals in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and hospice care.
Any tips for the GNA exam?Focus on infection control during the GNA Skills Test and review GNA Practice Test questions for the written portion.

GNA Test Format

The GNA Test is divided into two main parts. You must pass both to earn your GNA Certification. Below is the breakdown of the exam structure.

📝Written KnowledgePart 1

Multiple-choice questions testing theoretical knowledge of nursing care.

SafetyCommunicationAgingData Collection
  • Topics: Role of the Nurse Aide, Promotion of Safety, Residents' Rights
  • Questions: 70 Questions
🧼Clinical SkillsPart 2

Hands-on demonstration of nursing skills in a simulated environment.

HygieneMobilityMeasurement
  • Topics: Hand washing, vitals, catheter care, feeding
  • Questions: 5 Random Skills
🗣️Oral ExamAlternative

An audio version of the knowledge test for those with reading difficulties.

AudioVocabularyComprehensionDefinitions
  • Topics: Same as written test plus reading comprehension
  • Questions: 60 Knowledge + 10 Reading
🦠Infection ControlCritical

Safety protocols that must be followed during every skill demonstration.

PPEHandwashingDisposalStandard Precautions
  • Topics: Preventing cross-contamination
  • Questions: Graded in every skill
👵Psychosocial CareFocus

Understanding the mental and emotional needs of elderly residents.

Mental HealthCultural NeedsRespectDignity
  • Topics: Emotional support, resident rights
  • Questions: ~10% of exam
🩺Basic NursingCore

Fundamental medical tasks performed daily by a GNA.

ReportingVitalsObservationsDocumentation
  • Topics: Acute changes, reporting to nurse
  • Questions: ~25% of exam
💡 GNA Study Tip

The Difference Between CNA and GNA often comes down to federal regulations in Maryland. Focus heavily on GNA Skills Test steps, as automatic failure occurs if you miss a "bold" critical step like locking wheelchair brakes.

GNA Score Calculator

Estimate your readiness for the GNA Exam based on state standards.

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GNA Salary Information

Earning your GNA Certification can lead to higher wages in long-term care facilities compared to non-certified positions.

$38,500
Median Annual Salary
📊 Hourly Rate by Experience
$16
Entry
$18
1-4 Yrs
$20
5-9 Yrs
$24+
20+ Yrs
Entry
$16
1-4 Yrs
$18
5-9 Yrs
$20
20+ Yrs
$24+
*Hourly rates vary by facility and region.
Experience LevelAnnual SalaryMonthly IncomeTypical Timeline
👶 Entry Level GNA$33,280$2,7730-1 Years
👦 Early Career$37,440$3,1201-4 Years
👨 Mid-Level$41,600$3,4665-9 Years
👴 Experienced$45,760$3,81310-19 Years
🎓 Expert/Lead$49,920+$4,160+20+ Years
💰 Career Growth

With experience, you can specialize or bridge to becoming an LPN or RN. GNA Nursing experience is highly valued in nursing schools.

How to Become a GNA

Follow these steps to complete your GNA Training and obtain your license. This process ensures you meet all GNA Certification Requirements.

📚
Week 1-4
Training
Enroll in Program
🏥
Week 5-8
Clinical
Hands-on Hours
📝
Week 9
Register
Apply for Exam
🏆
Week 10
Certified
Pass GNA Exam
GNA Certification Process
  1. Find GNA Classes - Search for "GNA classes near me" or state-approved programs online.
  2. Complete Training - Finish the required 100 hours of GNA Training (60 theory, 40 clinical).
  3. Background Check - Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
  4. Apply for Exam - Register for the NNAAP exam via Credentia or Prometric.
  5. Take Practice Tests - Use our free GNA Practice Test resources to prepare.
  6. Pass GNA Exam - Successfully complete both written and GNA Skills Test sections.
  7. Get Listed - Verify your name on the Geriatric Nursing Assistant registry.

GNA Certification Costs

Understanding the costs involved in GNA Certification helps you budget effectively. Prices may vary by program and location.

🎓
$800-$1500
Tuition
Program fees
📚
$100
Books
Study materials
📝
$105
Exam Fee
Written + Skills
🩺
$50
Uniform
Scrubs/Shoes
🔍
$40
Background
Fingerprinting
🏥
$50
Health
TB Test/Physical
💰 Total Investment

Expect to spend between $1,100 and $1,900 total. Many employers offer reimbursement or free training in exchange for a work commitment.

A healthcare instructor with fair skin demonstrating patient care techniques to students in a clinical training lab.

GNA Career Paths

Explore specialized roles available after earning your GNA Certification.

🏥
Hospice GNA
Provide compassionate end-of-life care to terminally ill patients in their homes or facilities. Requires strong emotional resilience.
✈️
Traveling GNA
Take short-term contracts in different cities. High pay and flexibility for those who love to travel.
👶
Pediatric GNA
Specialize in caring for children with chronic conditions or disabilities in long-term care settings.
🧠
Dementia Care
Work in memory care units assisting residents with Alzheimer's and dementia. Requires patience and specialized training.
🚑
Rehab GNA
Assist patients recovering from surgery or injury in rehabilitation centers, focusing on regaining mobility.

GNA Contact Information

Contact the appropriate board or testing service for registration and inquiries.

🏛️
MD Board of Nursing
Regulatory Body

Website: mbon.maryland.gov

Services: Certification, Renewal

Contact: 410-585-1900

📝
Credentia
Testing Service

Website: credentia.com

Services: Exam Scheduling, Results

Contact: 1-888-204-6249

🔍
CJIS
Background Checks

Website: dpscs.state.md.us

Services: Fingerprinting

Contact: 410-764-4501

🎓
Pearson VUE
Alternative Testing

Website: pearsonvue.com

Services: Written Exam

Contact: 1-888-204-6249

🔍 Find GNA Jobs

Search for "GNA jobs near me" to find opportunities in local nursing homes. Valid GNA Certification is required for employment in Medicare-funded facilities in Maryland.

GNA Test Day Checklist

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GNA Renewal Requirements

To maintain your GNA License, you must renew every two years. Failure to renew on time may require retaking the GNA Exam.

🕒
Work Hours
8 Hours Paid
📅
Cycle
Every 2 Years
🔍
Check
Background
✅ Stay Certified

You must work at least 8 hours for pay as a GNA or in a nursing-related role within the 24-month period to be eligible for online renewal.

GNA Exam Questions and Answers

A Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) is a certified nursing assistant in Maryland who has passed the federal NNAAP exam to work in long-term care facilities.

The average GNA Salary is approximately $38,500 per year, or $18-$20 per hour, depending on the facility and experience.

The main Difference Between CNA and GNA is that GNA is a federally recognized certification required for Maryland nursing homes, while CNA is a state-level certification.

You must complete an approved 100-hour training program, pass a background check, and pass the NNAAP GNA Exam (written and skills).

Search for approved GNA Training programs at local community colleges, the Red Cross, or private nursing academies in Maryland.

The GNA Skills Test requires you to perform 5 randomly selected skills, such as hand washing, catheter care, feeding, and measuring pulse.

The written portion of the GNA Test typically contains 70 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 2 hours.

The written knowledge test may be available online via proctoring, but the clinical skills portion must be done in person.

GNA stands for Geriatric Nursing Assistant, a title primarily used in Maryland for certified nurse aides in long-term care.

You can verify your status using the Maryland Board of Nursing's GNA License lookup tool on their official website.

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