Basic Nursing Skills 2

Question 1

When preparing to take a patient's vital signs, what is the first step a CNA should perform?

Accepted Answer

Wash hands and introduce yourself to the patient

Answer

The very first step in any patient interaction, including taking vital signs, is proper hand hygiene to prevent infection. Following this, introducing oneself and explaining the procedure establishes rapport and ensures patient comfort and cooperation. This sequence adheres to infection control and patient communication best practices.

Question 2

A patient's blood pressure reading is 180/100 mmHg. What should the CNA do first?

Accepted Answer

Retake the blood pressure to verify the reading

Answer

A blood pressure reading of 180/100 mmHg is significantly elevated and considered a hypertensive crisis, which is a critical finding. Before reporting such an alarming reading, the CNA should always retake the blood pressure to confirm its accuracy. This rules out errors due to equipment, patient movement, or improper technique, ensuring reliable data for the nurse.

Question 3

When assisting a patient with ambulation who becomes dizzy, what is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Help the patient sit or lie down immediately

Answer

If a patient becomes dizzy during ambulation, the immediate priority is to prevent a fall and ensure their safety. Helping the patient sit or lie down quickly provides stability and reduces the risk of injury. Continuing to walk or leaving them standing would increase the danger of falling.

Question 4

What is the correct technique for measuring oral temperature with a digital thermometer?

Accepted Answer

Place under the tongue in the posterior sublingual pocket

Answer

For an accurate oral temperature reading, the tip of the thermometer must be placed in the posterior sublingual pocket, which is a heat-rich area under the tongue. This position allows the thermometer bulb to be in direct contact with the mucous membranes, reflecting core body temperature effectively. Placing it elsewhere can lead to inaccurate readings.

Question 5

A patient is on intake and output monitoring. Which of the following should be measured as intake?

Accepted Answer

All oral fluids, IV fluids, and foods that become liquid at room temperature

Answer

Intake and output (I&O) monitoring aims to measure all fluids entering and leaving the body to assess fluid balance. This includes not only obvious oral fluids and IV fluids but also foods that turn to liquid at room temperature, such as gelatin, ice cream, and popsicles. Comprehensive measurement ensures an accurate representation of the patient's fluid status.

Basic Nursing Skills Practice Test

Basic Nursing Skills Practice Test

Basic Nursing Skills 2