Abbreviations and Meanings
This abbreviation means nothing is allowed by mouth.
NPO
This protects both the CNA and the patient during lifting or repositioning.
Using correct body mechanics
😷🧤🧥➡️🦠🚫
What is using PPE to prevent infection
1️⃣ Handwashing removes germs through friction and running water.
2️⃣ PPE is only required when a resident is visibly soiled.
3️⃣ Cleaning high-touch surfaces reduces environmental contamination.
#2
A CNA performs hand hygiene before care, applies gloves, completes the task, removes the gloves, and immediately helps the next patient.
What is perform hand hygiene AFTER glove removal before touching another patient?
This abbreviation means a treatment should be done only when necessary.
PRN
This ensures the patient understands and cooperates during a transfer.
Communication with the patient
🤐📁🔒
What is protecting patient privacy/confidentiality
1️⃣ Pharmacists are responsible for managing medications.
2️⃣ PTs help patients improve mobility and physical function.
3️⃣ CNAs may adjust medication doses based on patient reports.
#3
A CNA assists a patient with walking, but does not use the assistive device because “the patient said they didn’t want it today.”
What is ensure use of assistive devices for stability and fall prevention?
(Even if the patient declines, safety rules still apply.)
This abbreviation refers to a vital sign measuring the pressure inside arteries.
BP
These items safeguard mobility and stability during movement.
Assistive devices
👀🆘📞👩⚕️
What is observing and reporting changes to the nurse?
1️⃣ Patients have the right to be involved in their care decisions.
2️⃣ Patients have the right to file grievances or complaints.
3️⃣ Patients must share their full medical history with staff even if they do not want to.
#3
A CNA sees “NPO” on the patient’s chart, so they do not give food—but they still offer the patient a small cup of water because “water doesn’t count as food.”
What is NPO includes no food or fluids unless specifically ordered?
This acronym refers to equipment used for infection protection.
What is PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
This determines which transfer method is safest for your patient.
Assessing the patient’s condition
🩻🦵⚠️🩸
What is the risk of DVT in immobile patients
1️⃣ Physical therapists assist patients with mobility and rehabilitation.
2️⃣ Nurses diagnose illnesses and create treatment plans.
3️⃣ Pharmacists manage and educate about medications.
What is #2?
(Nurses do NOT diagnose — physicians do.)
A CNA is preparing to assist a resident with morning care.
They perform hand hygiene, gather supplies, lock the bed, and explain the procedure.
The resident says they feel “a little short of breath today,” but the CNA assumes it’s nothing serious because vitals were normal last shift.
The CNA completes the bath and reports the SOB at the end of the shift during routine handoff.
What is failing to immediately report a sudden change in condition — shortness of breath — which can indicate complications such as immobility-related issues (like DVT leading to PE), infection, or cardiac problems?
A patient requires monitoring after meals due to possible complications, this is indicated by which abbreviation?
PC (post cibum)
This complication of immobility is caused by stagnant blood flow.
DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
😭➡️👂❤️
What is listening empathetically to a resident’s feelings
1️⃣ Immobility increases the risk of DVT due to decreased circulation.
2️⃣ Compression stockings help prevent blood pooling in the legs.
3️⃣ DVT risk is eliminated as long as the patient walks once a day.
What is #3?
(One walk a day does NOT eliminate DVT risk.)
A CNA tells a resident, “We’re going for a walk!”
The resident says, “No, we’re not.”
The CNA says, “Well… someone is,” and keeps preparing anyway.
What is respect the resident’s right to refuse and involve them in decisions?