CNA Using Adaptive Devices — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of adaptive devices for residents?
- To restrict residents' movements for safety
- To replace all hands-on care by the CNA
- To help residents perform ADLs more independently despite physical limitations (Correct answer)
- To be used only by residents in formal rehabilitation programs
Correct answer: To help residents perform ADLs more independently despite physical limitations
Adaptive devices are specialized tools designed to help residents perform activities of daily living more independently despite physical limitations. Examples include built-up utensils for weak grip, long-handled reachers, dressing sticks, and non-slip mats. Their use promotes independence and dignity.
Question 2: A resident has a built-up handle spoon provided by the occupational therapist. What should the CNA do at mealtimes?
- Use regular utensils since they are easier to clean
- Use the adaptive spoon only during OT sessions
- Ensure the adaptive spoon is available at every meal and encourage its use (Correct answer)
- Replace it with a regular spoon if the resident initially struggles
Correct answer: Ensure the adaptive spoon is available at every meal and encourage its use
Adaptive utensils prescribed by the occupational therapist are part of the resident's care plan and should be consistently used. The CNA should ensure the spoon is available at every meal and encourage the resident to use it to maximize independence and support the therapy goals.
Question 3: A resident who uses a hearing aid says it is not working well. What should the CNA do?
- Tell the resident to speak louder to compensate
- Remove the hearing aid permanently since it is not working
- Check the battery and basic function, then report to the nurse if the issue persists (Correct answer)
- Order a new hearing aid from the supply room independently
Correct answer: Check the battery and basic function, then report to the nurse if the issue persists
The CNA should check whether the hearing aid needs a new battery, is turned on, or has an earwax blockage in the tubing. If basic troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, the CNA should report to the nurse so the device can be evaluated or sent for repair. Hearing aids are vital to communication and quality of life.
Question 4: When helping a resident who wears eyeglasses, what should the CNA remember?
- Glasses only need cleaning once a week
- Store glasses in the bathroom for easy access
- Clean glasses daily, store safely in a case, and place on the resident before activities requiring vision (Correct answer)
- Glasses should remain on the resident at all times, including during bathing
Correct answer: Clean glasses daily, store safely in a case, and place on the resident before activities requiring vision
Eyeglasses should be cleaned daily with a soft cloth and lens cleaner, stored safely in a case when not in use, and placed on the resident before any activity requiring vision. Lost or damaged glasses impair the resident's safety and quality of life and must be reported immediately.
Question 5: What is a transfer (gait) belt considered in the context of adaptive devices?
- A restraint that limits the resident's movement
- A decoration worn by residents for identification
- An assistive device that helps support the resident safely during transfers and ambulation (Correct answer)
- A device used only in physical therapy departments
Correct answer: An assistive device that helps support the resident safely during transfers and ambulation
A gait belt is an assistive device used by CNAs to safely support residents during transfers and ambulation. It provides a firm grip point and reduces the risk of the CNA injuring their back. It is a device for both resident safety and occupational safety for the caregiver.
Question 6: A resident's prosthetic leg must be applied before ambulation. Which action should the CNA take?
- Apply the prosthesis quickly to save time and assess the limb afterward
- Refuse to handle prosthetics as they are outside the CNA's scope of practice
- Check the residual limb for skin breakdown or irritation before applying, and report any problems to the nurse (Correct answer)
- Apply the prosthesis regardless of any observed skin redness
Correct answer: Check the residual limb for skin breakdown or irritation before applying, and report any problems to the nurse
The CNA should check the residual limb for skin breakdown, redness, or irritation before applying the prosthesis. The prosthesis is applied per the care plan instructions, ensuring the socket fits correctly. Any skin changes or fit problems must be reported to the nurse before ambulating.
CNA Using Adaptive Devices
What is the purpose of adaptive devices for residents?