CNA Roles and Responsibilities 2

Question 1

A resident's family member, who is very anxious, asks the CNA for their opinion on the resident's long-term prognosis. What is the CNA's most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

"I understand you're concerned. The nurse is the best person to answer your questions. Let me get them for you."

Answer

A CNA's scope of practice does not include diagnosing, interpreting medical information, or offering a prognosis. Doing so would be practicing nursing without a license. The correct action is to refer the family member to the licensed nurse, who can provide accurate information or facilitate a conversation with the physician.

Question 2

A CNA is asked by a physical therapist to perform a complex, two-person pivot transfer on a resident. The CNA has never been trained in this specific technique. What is the CNA's best course of action?

Accepted Answer

Inform the therapist they are not trained in that technique and request guidance or assistance from a qualified staff member.

Answer

A CNA has the right and responsibility to refuse any task they have not been trained to perform safely and competently, even if delegated by another healthcare professional. The most professional and safest response is to communicate the lack of training and ask for proper instruction or assistance, ensuring resident safety.

Question 3

Which of the following documents most directly and legally defines a CNA's specific duties and limitations within their state?

Accepted Answer

The state's Nurse Practice Act

Answer

While all the other documents guide a CNA's work, the Nurse Practice Act is the state law that legally defines the scope of practice for nurses and, by extension, the tasks that can be delegated to CNAs. It establishes the legal boundaries for nursing care within that state.

Question 4

A CNA is providing post-mortem care. Which of the following actions is a key responsibility during this process?

Accepted Answer

Gently washing the body and positioning it in a dignified manner.

Answer

A primary role of the CNA in post-mortem care is to treat the deceased resident with dignity and respect. This includes tasks like gently bathing the body, changing linens, and positioning the body in proper alignment before the family arrives or the funeral home is called. Notifying family and handling legal documentation are responsibilities of the nurse or physician.

Question 5

A CNA enters the room of a resident with a valid Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order and finds them unresponsive, without a pulse, and not breathing. What is the CNA's immediate priority?

Accepted Answer

Immediately call the nurse and stay with the resident.

Answer

Even with a DNR order, the CNA's first responsibility is to confirm the resident's condition and immediately alert the licensed nurse. The nurse is responsible for assessing the situation, confirming the death, and ensuring all protocols, including the DNR, are followed correctly. The CNA should not leave the resident and must activate the proper chain of command.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Roles and Responsibilities 2