Is the TNCC Written Exam Open Book? (2025 TNCC Exam Rules Explained)

When I was preparing for the Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) exam, I remember wondering: “Is the TNCC written exam open book?” It’s a fair question — especially when you’re dealing with detailed trauma protocols and guidelines from the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA). Let’s break down the exam rules so you know exactly what to expect.

TNCC Written Exam: Open Book or Closed Book?

Here’s the straight answer: the TNCC written exam is not open book.

  • You cannot use your TNCC Provider Manual or any outside resources during the test.
  • The exam is a closed-book format, meaning you must rely on what you studied.
  • This applies to all TNCC providers taking the exam in 2025 and beyond.

The reason is simple — the exam is designed to test whether you can apply trauma knowledge and protocols without prompts, which is exactly what you’ll need to do in a real emergency situation.

Why Isn’t the TNCC Exam Open Book?

While many nursing exams allow reference material, the TNCC certification is different. Trauma care requires immediate recall of the trauma nursing process.

ENA’s logic:

  • During a real trauma case, you won’t have time to flip through a textbook.
  • Nurses must be able to recall the ABCDE assessment, shock management, and prioritization instantly.
  • The exam ensures you can do this under test conditions — just like in real-world trauma care.

What About the TNCC Skills Station?

The skills test is also not open book. Instead, it’s a live simulation where you must walk through the trauma nursing process step by step. You’ll be graded on whether you hit all the critical actions.

Like the written exam, you won’t have notes, books, or guides available. It’s all about knowledge, speed, and confidence.

How to Prepare Without an Open Book

Since the exam is closed book, preparation is key. Here’s what helps most:

  1. Know the TNCC Provider Manual Inside and Out – This is your foundation.
  2. Memorize the Trauma Nursing Process (ABCDE) – Drill it until it’s automatic.
  3. Take Practice Questions – Simulate the test environment with timed quizzes.
  4. Use Mnemonics and Flashcards – Reinforce critical steps for quick recall.
  5. Practice Scenarios with Peers – Verbalize your process to lock in retention.

Pro Study Tip 📘

Don’t rely on having the book open — the TNCC exam won’t allow it. Instead, practice like it’s test day.

👉 Check out our TNCC Practice Questions + Study Guide — fully updated for 2025 and designed to help you master the trauma nursing process without needing to “look it up.” This resource will help you walk into the exam with confidence.

Quick FAQ About TNCC Exam Rules

Is the TNCC exam multiple choice?
✅ Yes — the written test is 50 multiple-choice questions.

Do you need 80% to pass?
✅ Yes — you must score at least 40 out of 50 correct.

Can you use your TNCC book during the exam?
❌ No — it’s closed book, both for the written exam and skills test.

Can you retake the TNCC exam if you fail?
✅ Yes — many facilities allow retesting, but policies vary.

✅ Final Thought: The TNCC written exam is closed book, meaning you’ll need to rely on preparation, not reference material. The good news? With enough practice, you won’t need the book — you’ll know the trauma nursing process inside and out, exactly the way ENA wants you to.

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