Basic Nursing Skills
What is the normal range for adult blood pressure?
90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg
How often should oral care be performed on an unconscious patient?
At least every two hours
What does "RACE" stand for in fire safety?
Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish
What should a CNA do before entering a resident’s room?
Knock on the door, announce themselves, and wait for permission before entering (if the resident is able to respond).
What is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection?
Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
When taking a radial pulse, how long should you count for an accurate measurement?
60 seconds, or 30 seconds and multiply by 2
What is the best way to prevent pressure ulcers in bed-bound patients?
Reposition them every two hours and check for redness
When moving a heavy object, how should a CNA position their body to avoid injury?
Bend at the knees, keep back straight, and lift with legs
What is the best way to communicate with a resident who has hearing loss?
Face them, speak clearly, and avoid shouting
When should gloves be changed during care?
Between tasks, after contact with bodily fluids, and when torn or soiled
When should a CNA report a resident’s vital signs to a nurse?
If they are outside the normal range or have sudden changes
When dressing a resident with one weak arm, which arm should you put the clothing on first?
The weak arm first, then the strong arm
If a resident starts choking but can cough, what should you do?
Encourage them to keep coughing and stay with them
If a resident refuses care, what should the CNA do?
Respect their right to refuse, report to the nurse, and encourage without forcing
What is the difference between medical and surgical asepsis?
Medical reduces germs, surgical eliminates all germs completely
What is the most important step when transferring a resident from bed to wheelchair?
Lock the wheelchair brakes first
Why is it important to encourage residents to perform as much of their own personal hygiene as possible?
To promote independence, maintain dignity, and improve self-esteem, while also preserving mobility and muscle strength.
What is the first step in responding to a resident who has fallen?
Stay with the resident and call for help, do not move them
What should a CNA do if they suspect abuse of a resident?
Report it immediately to a supervisor or follow facility protocol
What PPE (personal protective equipment) should be worn for contact precautions?
Gloves and gown, and mask if required
What position should an unconscious patient be placed in for mouth care?
Side-lying position to prevent aspiration
What is the most important consideration when shaving a diabetic resident?
Use an electric razor to prevent cuts and infection
If a resident has a seizure, what should a CNA do first?
Protect their head, do not restrain them, and call for help
A resident's family requests their medical records. Who is allowed to access them?
Only the resident or their legal representative (such as a power of attorney for healthcare) can access their medical records, according to HIPAA regulations.
Why is handwashing with soap and water required instead of hand sanitizer when caring for a resident with Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infection?
C. diff spores are resistant to alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Soap and water physically remove the spores from the hands, preventing the spread of infection.