Top 10 Must-Know Clinical Topics for the FNP-C Exam

The Family Nurse Practitioner Certification (FNP-C) Exam tests a wide range of clinical conditions, but certain topics appear more frequently. Mastering these **high-yield conditions** will help you feel confident and prepared on exam day.

📌 1. Hypertension (HTN)

Hypertension is one of the most frequently tested conditions on the FNP-C exam. Know the latest **ACC/AHA hypertension guidelines**, classification, and first-line treatments.
Sample Question: A 52-year-old patient presents with a BP of 148/92 mmHg on two separate visits. What is the most appropriate first-line treatment?A) ACE inhibitor B) Beta-blocker C) Loop diuretic D) Calcium channel blockerAnswer: A) ACE inhibitor

📌 2. Diabetes Mellitus (DM)

Diabetes management, including diagnostic criteria (A1C, fasting glucose), medication selection, and complications (e.g., neuropathy, nephropathy), is essential knowledge.

📌 3. Dyslipidemia

Understand the latest **cholesterol guidelines**, statin therapy indications, and lipid panel interpretation.

📌 4. Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)

Recognizing symptoms of **myocardial infarction (MI), unstable angina, and stable angina** is key. ECG interpretation and cardiac markers (troponin) are high-yield.

📌 5. Asthma & COPD

Know the differences between **asthma and COPD**, their treatment (bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids), and the **GOLD guidelines** for COPD.

📌 6. Infectious Diseases

Common infections tested include **pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTI), cellulitis, and sepsis**. Be familiar with first-line antibiotics and resistant infections.
Sample Question: Which antibiotic is the first-line treatment for an uncomplicated UTI in a non-pregnant woman?A) Amoxicillin B) Ciprofloxacin C) Nitrofurantoin D) ClindamycinAnswer: C) Nitrofurantoin

📌 7. Thyroid Disorders

Know the differences between **hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism**, including TSH/T3/T4 interpretation and treatment options (levothyroxine, methimazole, PTU).

📌 8. Osteoporosis

Screening with **DEXA scan**, risk factors (age, corticosteroid use), and treatment with bisphosphonates are common exam topics.

📌 9. Anemia

Iron-deficiency anemia, B12 deficiency, and anemia of chronic disease are frequently tested. Understand lab findings (MCV, ferritin, TIBC).

📌 10. Depression & Anxiety

Mental health conditions, including screening tools (**PHQ-9, GAD-7**), first-line medications (**SSRIs, SNRIs**), and therapy options, are common exam questions.

🎯 How to Master These Topics

To solidify your understanding, follow these study strategies:
  • Focus on high-yield topics with the most weight on the exam.
  • Practice with realistic FNP-C exam questions daily.
  • Use a structured study resource with **detailed explanations and rationales**.

📚 Best Study Resource for the FNP-C Exam

For a comprehensive prep course covering all these must-know topics, we recommend:
👉 Continuedge FNP-C Prep CourseGet access to expert-led lectures, in-depth study guides, and high-quality practice questions.

📝 Final Thoughts

By focusing on these top 10 high-yield conditions and using a structured study plan, you can boost your confidence and pass the FNP-C exam on your first attempt.💬 Which topics are you focusing on? Drop a comment below!

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