Question 1

A CNA is caring for a bedridden resident and notices a reddened area on the sacrum that does NOT blanch when pressed. The skin remains intact. Which action should the CNA take first?

Accepted Answer

The CNA should relieve pressure from the area immediately by repositioning the resident off the sacrum, then report the finding to the nurse. A non-blanchable reddened area on intact skin is a Stage I pressure ulcer and must be documented and reported promptly to prevent worsening.

Question 2

A CNA takes a resident's blood pressure and obtains a reading of 88/54 mmHg. The resident reports feeling dizzy and appears pale. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

The CNA should have the resident lie down or remain seated safely to prevent a fall, then report the blood pressure reading and symptoms to the nurse immediately. A BP of 88/54 with dizziness and pallor suggests hypotension that could lead to syncope, and prompt nurse notification is required before any further activity.

Question 3

A CNA is attempting to provide a bed bath for a resident with dementia who becomes combative, hitting and shouting when the washcloth approaches her face. What is the safest and most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

The CNA should stop the procedure, calmly reassure the resident using a gentle voice and simple words, and allow her to settle before attempting care again. If the resident remains agitated, the CNA should report the behavior to the nurse, who may offer guidance on alternative approaches, a different time of day, or distraction techniques to make care safer.

Question 4

A CNA is preparing to ambulate a resident using a gait belt. The resident has physician orders for partial weight-bearing on the left leg. During ambulation, the resident begins to bear full weight on the left leg. What should the CNA do?

Accepted Answer

The CNA should stop ambulation immediately, safely return the resident to a seated position, and report the incident to the nurse. Allowing a resident to bear weight beyond the prescribed order could cause injury to healing bone or tissue; the nurse must reassess the resident and clarify whether the weight-bearing order or ambulation plan should be modified.

Question 5

A CNA is providing indwelling urinary catheter care. During the procedure, the CNA accidentally touches the catheter tubing to the bed linens before cleaning. What is the correct response?

Accepted Answer

The CNA should obtain clean gloves and new supplies to restart the cleaning procedure from the beginning, as contamination of the catheter or surrounding area with unclean surfaces can introduce pathogens and increase the risk of a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). The contaminated supplies should be discarded.

Physical Care — Scenarios

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