CNA Practice Test - Basic Nursing Skills #2 2

Question 1

A resident's blood pressure is measured at 158/96 mmHg. This reading would be classified as:

Accepted Answer

Hypertensive

Answer

A blood pressure reading of 158/96 mmHg is elevated and falls in the Stage 2 hypertension range (systolic ≥140 or diastolic ≥90 mmHg per standard clinical guidelines). The CNA should report this finding to the supervising nurse for clinical assessment and documentation.

Question 2

A resident's axillary (armpit) temperature is 98.6°F (37°C). How should this reading be interpreted?

Accepted Answer

This is an elevated axillary temperature indicating possible fever

Answer

Axillary temperature is typically 0.5-1.0°F lower than oral temperature and 1.0-1.5°F lower than rectal temperature. An axillary reading of 98.6°F is therefore elevated compared to the normal axillary range of approximately 96.6-98.0°F and should be reported to the nurse.

Question 3

When counting a resident's respiration rate, the CNA should count for:

Accepted Answer

30 seconds and multiply by 2 if regular, or 60 seconds if irregular

Answer

Respiratory rate is counted for 30 seconds and multiplied by 2 if the rhythm is regular, or for a full 60 seconds if the rhythm is irregular. Residents should not be informed that their breathing is being counted, as awareness often causes them to alter their natural breathing pattern.

Question 4

Which pulse site does a CNA most commonly use when taking a routine vital sign pulse rate?

Accepted Answer

Radial artery at the wrist

Answer

The radial pulse at the wrist is the most commonly used site for routine pulse assessment due to its accessibility and ease of palpation. The brachial artery is used for blood pressure measurement, the carotid for CPR, and the femoral for emergencies or limited access situations.

Question 5

A resident is ordered to have their weight measured daily. The CNA should weigh the resident:

Accepted Answer

At the same time of day, on the same scale, in similar clothing

Answer

Consistency in weighing conditions (same time of day, same scale, and similar clothing) is essential for accurate weight trending. Daily weights are typically obtained in the morning before breakfast to establish a reliable baseline and track fluid retention or loss.