Basic CNA Skills
What should a CNA do before and after providing care ?
Hand hygiene
Should you argue with a resident who has dementia?
No
What does BP stand for?
Blood Pressure
What is the single most important way to reduce the spread of infection?
Why should residents be encouraged to do as much as they can for themselves?
To promote independence, dignity, and maintain their abilities.
What position is commonly used to help prevent aspiration while feeding a resident?
High Fowler's/semi-Fowler's position, with the resident sitting upright.
What is one good way to communicate with a resident who has dementia?
Use simple, clear sentences and speak calmly.
What is a normal adult resting pulse range?
Approximately 60–100 beats per minute.
What should you do if you find water on the floor?
Keep the resident away from the area, clean it or have it cleaned according to policy, and report the hazard.
What should you do before entering a resident's room?
Knock and identify yourself.
What should a CNA do if a resident refuses care?
Respect the refusal, determine the reason if possible, report it to the nurse, and document according to facility policy.
A resident repeatedly asks, "When is my daughter coming?" What should you do?
Respond calmly, reassure the resident, and redirect rather than becoming frustrated.
What does SpO₂ measure?
Blood oxygen saturation.
What does PPE stand for?
Personal Protective Equipment
Why is privacy important during personal care?
It protects the resident's dignity and rights.
What is the purpose of using a gait belt?
To provide support and safety when assisting a resident with transfers or ambulation.
A resident with dementia becomes agitated during bathing. Name one thing you could try.
Stop or slow down, reassure them, explain what you're doing, and try again later if appropriate.
A resident's temperature is significantly higher than their normal baseline. What should the CNA do?
Report the abnormal finding promptly to the nurse and follow facility policy.
A resident is at high risk for falls. Name two safety measures.
Keep the call light within reach, maintain a clear pathway, use appropriate footwear, and follow the resident's fall-prevention plan.
You notice a new red area on a resident's skin. What should you do?
Report it to the nurse promptly and document according to facility policy.
A resident suddenly becomes unresponsive. What is the CNA's first priority?
Ensure safety, call for help/emergency assistance, and follow facility emergency procedures.
Why should CNAs avoid saying, "I already told you that"?
It can increase frustration, embarrassment, or agitation.
Why is it important to know a resident's normal baseline?
Changes from their normal can be an early sign of illness or a change in condition.
What should a CNA do after being stuck by a contaminated needle?
Immediately wash the area, report the exposure to the nurse/supervisor, and follow the facility's exposure protocol.
A resident tells you, "Please don't tell anyone, but my caregiver is hurting me." What should you do?
Take the statement seriously and immediately report suspected abuse according to facility policy and required reporting procedures.