CNA Basic Nursing Skills 4
Which of the following is recorded as the systolic blood pressure?
When taking a blood pressure, inflate the cuff of the sphygmomanometer until it is snug, about 180 mmHg. Slowly release the valve of the cuff. When the blood is allowed to circulate, there will be a sound. That is the systolic pressure measurement, or the top number of the blood pressure reading. Hint: To remember which is the top number, think of the "S" in systolic, superior, and sky. All of them are "above" or "high.
When the valves in the legs weaken it can result in
Varicose veins are large, swollen veins in the legs that result from weakened valves. Veins have one-way valves to prevent blood from backflowing as it returns to the heart. If they are damaged, the blood pools in the veins, causing swelling, pain, and possibly blood clots. Varicose veins can be treated with compression stockings, or if they are serious, surgery.
A restraint attached to a patient's body and to a stationary object is ________.
A restraint is a way of limiting a patient's movement or freedom. It protects the patient's safety or the safety of others. An active restraint is attached to the patient's body and to a secure object. Example: a vest that ties to a wheelchair.
Mrs. Allen has a gastrostomy and the nurse just put Ensure through the feeding tube. The CNA needs to put her in which position for the next 1-2 hours?
Fowler's position is a sitting position that is used for several reasons. It prevents aspiration during and after a tube feeding. It can also help patients with respiratory problems breathe more easily. Standard Fowler's position is 45-60 degrees.
A fracture-type bedpan is used for residents who
A fracture pan is a smaller version of a bedpan, with one side flat, which makes it easier to slide under a patient who cannot raise their hips or who must maintain alignment. The other end has a handle for easy removal. Many nurses like to powder the fracture pan to make it easier to slide and to avoid skin irritation.
When giving an enema to a person you ask the person to lie on _______.
The left Sim's position is used for rectal examinations and administering enemas. The client lies on the left side, with the right knee and hip bent. It is also called the lateral recumbent or semi prone side position.
The surgical creation of an artificial opening of the large intestine is called _______.
A colostomy is a surgical procedure that takes a section of the colon and creates an artificial opening through the abdomen. The opening is called a stoma. Contents of the colon, or large intestine, are collected in a pouch outside the body.
Settings where a CNA can work include
As a healthcare professional, the CNA can choose from a variety of work settings, depending on interest and experience. Hospitals, hospices, and home care are three examples, as well as clinics and long-term care facilities.
Mr. Brown has an ankle brace. When you remove the brace, you notice a reddened area on the ankle bone. You should
A reddened area is the first sign of skin breakdown. It means that there is pressure and a lack of blood circulation to the area. The nurse aide should immediately remove the source of pressure or reposition the client to eliminate pressure. Never massage a reddened area, as this will increase the damage. Report your observation to the nurse.
Which function is NOT done by the circulatory system?
The circulatory system is the heart and blood vessels. Arteries are the vessels that leave the heart with oxygen and nutrients for all cells. Veins are the vessels that remove waste products and carbon dioxide.
The RN assigns you a task that is in your job description. Which statement is FALSE?
While the RN can assign or delegate tasks that are in your job description, they must ensure that you know how to do the task and that it's beneficial to the patient. Some non-RN tasks may be outside the scope of your CNA practice. If so, inform the RN.
What is the normal range of systolic blood pressure for adults?
Systolic pressure is the top number of a blood pressure reading. It measures the pressure in the arteries after the heart takes a beat, as the blood moves. The normal pressure is less than 120. A pressure of 120-140 is considered pre-hypertensive.
Mrs. Harvey complains of abdominal discomfort. Watery stool has been leaking from her rectum. This could be a sign of
Fecal impaction can be serious. When constipation is not resolved, stool becomes hardened and unable to pass. Liquid stool may pass around the impaction. Patients may complain of feeling bloated; having the urge to push; nausea or vomiting; not wanting to eat. There are several treatments to expel the impaction, but it may need to be manually removed.
A health care agency or program for patients who are dying is
Hospice is a special type of care that works with patients who have life-limiting conditions, their families, and their caregivers. The goal is to maintain the patient's dignity and quality of life, while supporting each person. Hospice care does not prolong life or hasten death.
When nursing assistants find equipment in need of repair, they should
Every staff member is responsible for keeping clients safe at all times. This includes monitoring all equipment and reporting when anything needs repair. Never use broken equipment or try to create a temporary solution if equipment is not working properly. Tag the broken item and move it so that another client can't use it.
A nursing aide has four patients to assist. Who should she address first?
When prioritizing, start with the patient that has the most urgent need. Assist the patient to the bathroom, to prevent incontinence and clean up. The patient will be comfortable, and you can then attend to the other patients.