Nutrition and Hydration Management Flashcards

A CNA notices a resident is pocketing food in their cheeks after meals. This behavior most likely indicates:

Answer: A possible swallowing problem that should be reported

Pocketing food can be a sign of dysphagia, cognitive changes, or poor dentition and must be reported to the nurse for evaluation.

Which vitamin is primarily obtained through sun exposure and is important for calcium absorption?

Answer: Vitamin D

Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin upon sun exposure and is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

A resident is on a diabetic diet. Which statement best describes why sugary desserts are limited?

Answer: High sugar intake can cause dangerous blood glucose spikes

For diabetic residents, concentrated sugars can rapidly elevate blood glucose to dangerous levels, making dietary control essential.

When a resident's weight must be recorded, the CNA should weigh them:

Answer: At the same time of day, in similar clothing, on the same scale

Consistent conditions—same time, similar clothing, same scale—ensure that weight changes reflect actual body weight, not measurement variables.

A resident receiving tube feedings should have the head of the bed elevated at least:

Answer: 30–45 degrees

Elevating the head of the bed 30–45 degrees during and after tube feedings reduces the risk of aspiration of formula.

A CNA can best encourage adequate hydration in a resident who dislikes plain water by:

Answer: Offering a variety of allowed fluids such as juice, broth, or gelatin

Offering a variety of acceptable fluids increases the likelihood that the resident will meet their daily fluid goals.

Which observation about a resident's urine indicates good hydration status?

Answer: Pale yellow or straw-colored urine

Pale yellow urine is the hallmark of adequate hydration; darker urine typically signals dehydration or a medical problem.