CNA Preventing Patient Falls and Injuries 3

Question 1

A resident with known orthostatic hypotension feels suddenly dizzy while being assisted from the toilet. What is the CNA's most immediate and appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Gently and safely lower the resident back to the toilet or to the floor.

Answer

The immediate priority is the resident's safety and preventing an injury from a fall. Gently lowering the resident to a safe, low surface like the toilet or the floor is the fastest way to prevent a fall caused by dizziness from orthostatic hypotension. While calling the nurse is crucial, it should be done after the resident is in a safe position.

Question 2

Which of the following environmental factors poses a subtle but significant fall risk specifically for a patient with peripheral neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Thick, high-pile carpeting in the hallway.

Answer

Peripheral neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to perceive changes in surfaces. A thick, high-pile carpet can easily catch the foot of someone who cannot properly feel the floor, leading to a trip and fall. The other options are generally not considered specific fall risks related to this condition.

Question 3

A resident has recently been prescribed a diuretic. The CNA should be on high alert for which new behavior that significantly increases fall risk?

Accepted Answer

Rushing to the bathroom with a sense of urgency.

Answer

Diuretics increase urine production, leading to urinary frequency and urgency. This often causes residents to rush to the bathroom, which elevates the risk of tripping and falling, particularly in cluttered spaces or at night when it's dark.

Question 4

A resident with dementia, who has a bed alarm, becomes agitated and attempts to climb out of bed. The alarm sounds. What is the CNA's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Go to the resident, speak calmly, and attempt to redirect their attention.

Answer

For a resident with dementia, agitation is often a form of communication. The priority is to de-escalate the situation calmly. Approaching the resident with a calm voice and attempting to redirect them to a different activity or address an unmet need is the most appropriate first step. This person-centered approach can resolve the agitation without the need for more restrictive measures.

Question 5

Purposeful rounding using the "4 P's" is a key fall prevention strategy. Which of the following is NOT one of the core "4 P's"?

Accepted Answer

Pillows

Answer

The core components of the "4 P's" of purposeful rounding are Pain, Potty (toileting needs), Positioning (comfort and safety), and Possessions (ensuring personal items are within reach). While adjusting pillows is part of ensuring good positioning, "Pillows" itself is not one of the four main categories.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Preventing Patient Falls and Injuries 3