CNA Preventing Patient Falls and Injuries 2

Question 1

A resident with orthostatic hypotension who has been dizzy upon standing is starting a new blood pressure medication.
What is the MOST appropriate action for the CNA to take before assisting the resident to ambulate for the first time after receiving the new medication?

Accepted Answer

Ask the resident to sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes before standing.

Answer

Take the resident's blood pressure while they are lying down.

Answer

Encourage the resident to walk quickly to a nearby chair.

Answer

Have the resident drink a full glass of water immediately before getting up.

Question 2

You are caring for a resident with advanced dementia who becomes increasingly agitated and restless in the late afternoon, a behavior known as 'sundowning'. Which of the following interventions is most likely to decrease their risk of falling during this time?

Accepted Answer

Engaging the resident in a calm, familiar activity, such as folding laundry.

Answer

Increasing the lighting in the room and playing loud, upbeat music.

Answer

Asking the resident to stay in their room alone to reduce stimulation.

Answer

Administering a new sedative medication ordered by the physician.

Question 3

A patient is consistently trying to slide down in their wheelchair, increasing their risk of falling out. The CNA has already ensured the patient is comfortable and has no unmet needs. What is the best immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Place a wedge cushion in the wheelchair and reposition the patient.

Answer

Apply a lap belt to keep the patient in the chair and report it to the nurse.

Answer

Inform the patient that they must sit up straight to be safe.

Answer

Remove the patient from the wheelchair and place them in bed with all side rails up.

Question 4

A facility has placed thick, cushioned floor mats next to the beds of high-risk residents to reduce injury from a fall. When is this floor mat MOST likely to become a hazard itself?

Accepted Answer

When a staff member is assisting the resident out of bed to a standing position.

Answer

When the resident is sleeping soundly in the bed.

Answer

When the resident is using the call light to ask for assistance.

Answer

When the mat is placed on a carpeted surface instead of a hard floor.

Question 5

A resident expresses a significant fear of falling after a recent near-miss event and is now refusing to participate in their prescribed physical therapy. Which action by the CNA is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Ask the nurse or physical therapist to discuss alternative, less intimidating exercises with the resident.

Answer

Insist that the resident must attend therapy because the doctor ordered it.

Answer

Tell the resident their fear is irrational and they will be fine.

Answer

Document the refusal and take no further action.

Question 6

Which of the following is an often-overlooked environmental factor that a CNA can modify to help prevent falls in residents with visual impairments?

Accepted Answer

Reducing glare by adjusting blinds and using soft, indirect lighting.

Answer

Ensuring the television volume is at an appropriate level.

Answer

Administering prescribed eye drops exactly on schedule.

Answer

Making sure the resident's hearing aids are working properly.