CNA Personal Care Skills 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A resident has a weak left arm due to a stroke. When helping the resident get dressed in a button-up shirt, the CNA should:
- Dress the strong (right) arm first.
- Dress the weak (left) arm first. (Correct answer)
- Dress both arms at the same time.
- Ask the resident which arm they prefer to dress first.
Correct answer: Dress the weak (left) arm first.
When dressing a resident with a weak or affected side, the CNA should always dress the weak side first. This minimizes movement and strain on the affected limb. When undressing, the process is reversed: undress the strong side first.
Question 2: When providing oral hygiene to an unconscious resident, what is the most important step to prevent aspiration?
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush.
- Positioning the resident on their side (lateral position). (Correct answer)
- Using a large amount of water to rinse the mouth.
- Keeping the resident flat on their back (supine position).
Correct answer: Positioning the resident on their side (lateral position).
Positioning an unconscious resident on their side with their head turned to the side allows fluids to run out of the mouth, preventing them from flowing down the throat and into the lungs (aspiration), which can cause pneumonia.
Question 3: To prevent pressure ulcers in a resident who is bedridden, the CNA should:
- Vigorously massage any reddened bony areas.
- Reposition the resident at least every 2 hours. (Correct answer)
- Apply extra layers of blankets for cushioning.
- Encourage the resident to remain in one comfortable position.
Correct answer: Reposition the resident at least every 2 hours.
Frequent repositioning (at least every two hours) relieves pressure on bony prominences, which is the primary cause of pressure ulcers. Massaging reddened areas can cause further tissue damage and is contraindicated.
Question 4: When preparing a bed bath for a resident, the CNA should ensure the water temperature is:
- Between 90°F and 95°F (32.2°C - 35°C)
- Between 105°F and 110°F (40.5°C - 43.3°C) (Correct answer)
- Between 120°F and 125°F (48.9°C - 51.7°C)
- Whatever temperature the CNA prefers.
Correct answer: Between 105°F and 110°F (40.5°C - 43.3°C)
Water for a bed bath should be warm enough for comfort but not so hot as to cause burns. The standard safe and comfortable range is 105°F to 110°F (40.5°C - 43.3°C). The CNA should always check the temperature with a bath thermometer or on their wrist before use.
Question 5: When performing perineal care on a female resident, the CNA should clean the area:
- From back to front, using a circular motion.
- From front to back, using a clean part of the washcloth for each stroke. (Correct answer)
- From the rectal area towards the urethra.
- In whatever direction is most convenient.
Correct answer: From front to back, using a clean part of the washcloth for each stroke.
Cleaning from front to back (from the urethra towards the anus) prevents the transfer of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra, which can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). Using a clean part of the washcloth for each stroke prevents recontamination.
Question 6: A CNA is assigned to provide nail care for a resident with diabetes. The CNA should:
- Cut the resident's toenails straight across.
- File the resident's nails into a rounded shape.
- Check the facility's policy and the resident's care plan, as CNAs are often not permitted to cut the nails of diabetic residents. (Correct answer)
- Soak the resident's feet in hot water before trimming the nails.
Correct answer: Check the facility's policy and the resident's care plan, as CNAs are often not permitted to cut the nails of diabetic residents.
Residents with diabetes often have poor circulation and neuropathy (loss of sensation), which increases the risk of infection and slow-healing injuries from even minor cuts. Many facilities have a policy that only a licensed nurse or podiatrist can perform nail care for these residents. The CNA must always follow the care plan and facility policy.
Question 7: When shaving a male resident with a disposable safety razor, the CNA should:
- Shave against the direction of hair growth for a closer shave.
- Use the same razor blade for multiple residents to save supplies.
- Hold the skin taut and shave in the direction of hair growth. (Correct answer)
- Apply aftershave lotion containing alcohol to prevent infection.
Correct answer: Hold the skin taut and shave in the direction of hair growth.
Holding the skin taut creates a smooth surface, and shaving in the direction of hair growth helps prevent nicks, cuts, and skin irritation. Shaving against the grain increases the risk of injury.
CNA Personal Care Skills 1
A resident has a weak left arm due to a stroke.
When helping the resident get dressed in a button-up shirt, the CNA should: