CNA Nutrition and Hydration Management

Question 1

Which observation indicates a resident may be at risk for dehydration?

Accepted Answer

Dark urine, dry mouth, and decreased urine output

Answer

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dark concentrated urine, decreased urine output, sunken eyes, poor skin turgor, confusion, and dizziness. CNAs should monitor these signs and report them to the nurse, as dehydration can cause serious complications in elderly residents.

Question 2

A resident has a prescribed fluid restriction. How should the CNA manage this?

Accepted Answer

Measure all fluids carefully and stay within the prescribed daily limit

Answer

When a resident has a prescribed fluid restriction, the CNA must carefully measure and track all fluid intake and not offer fluids beyond the prescribed limit. All fluids—including soups, ice cream, and gelatin—count toward the restriction and must be documented accurately.

Question 3

Which diet is appropriate for a resident who has recently had abdominal surgery?

Accepted Answer

Clear liquid diet as ordered, progressing as tolerated

Answer

After abdominal surgery, the gastrointestinal tract needs time to recover. A clear liquid diet (water, broth, clear juice, gelatin) is typically prescribed first. The diet is progressively advanced as tolerated based on physician orders.

Question 4

What does BMI stand for and why is it relevant to a CNA's responsibilities?

Accepted Answer

Body Mass Index — helps assess nutritional status and obesity risk

Answer

BMI stands for Body Mass Index, a measure of body weight relative to height. CNAs help monitor residents' nutritional status by weighing residents regularly and reporting significant weight changes, which may indicate malnutrition or other health problems.

Question 5

A CNA notices a resident has not been eating well for several days and has lost weight. What should the CNA do?

Accepted Answer

Report the findings to the nurse and document intake and weight accurately

Answer

Weight loss and poor oral intake in a resident must be reported to the nurse promptly. These findings can indicate depression, oral pain, medication side effects, dysphagia, or other medical issues requiring evaluation and intervention.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Nutrition and Hydration Management