CNA Bathing and Dressing

Question 1

When giving a bed bath, in what order should the CNA wash the patient's body?

Accepted Answer

Face first, then proceeding from clean to dirty areas, finishing with the perineum

Answer

Feet first, then working upward toward the face

Answer

Perineum first to get the most difficult area done, then moving upward

Answer

No specific order is required as long as all areas are cleaned

Question 2

When dressing a patient who has weakness in their right arm, which arm should be dressed first?

Accepted Answer

The right (weaker) arm, so the sleeve can be positioned over it more easily

Answer

The left (stronger) arm, as it is easier to start with

Answer

Either arm — it makes no clinical difference

Answer

Always the arm closest to the CNA's dominant hand

Question 3

Before beginning a bed bath, what is the most important safety check the CNA should perform?

Accepted Answer

Check the water temperature by testing it on the inner wrist

Answer

Ensure the privacy curtain is fully closed

Answer

Confirm the patient's dietary preferences for the day

Answer

Verify that all supplies are laid out in alphabetical order

Question 4

A resident with dementia becomes agitated and starts hitting the CNA during a bath. What is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Stop the bath, speak calmly, allow time for the resident to settle, and try again later

Answer

Restrain the resident to complete the bath safely

Answer

Increase the pace of the bath to finish it as quickly as possible

Answer

Document the behavior and skip the bath for the day without attempting alternatives

Question 5

When providing perineal care for a female patient, the CNA should clean in which direction?

Accepted Answer

Front to back, from the urethra toward the rectum

Answer

Back to front, to clean the most contaminated area first

Answer

In a circular motion starting from the outer labia inward

Answer

Side to side in a sweeping motion across the perineum

Question 6

What does the CNA do to protect a patient's privacy during a bed bath?

Accepted Answer

Use a bath blanket to cover the patient, exposing only the area being washed

Answer

Ask the patient to close their eyes during the entire procedure

Answer

Perform the bath as quickly as possible to minimize exposure time

Answer

Have the patient change in the bathroom before getting into bed