CNA Scope of Practice

Question 1

What defines a CNA's scope of practice?

Accepted Answer

State laws, facility policies, and tasks the CNA has been trained and found competent to perform

Answer

Whatever a supervising nurse asks them to do regardless of training

Answer

Only the tasks listed in their job description

Answer

What they learned in nursing school

Question 2

Which of the following is OUTSIDE the CNA's scope of practice?

Accepted Answer

Administering prescription medications

Answer

Measuring and recording vital signs

Answer

Providing personal hygiene care

Answer

Assisting with ambulation using a gait belt

Question 3

A nurse asks a CNA to perform a sterile catheter insertion. The CNA has not been trained for this. What should the CNA do?

Accepted Answer

Politely decline and explain they have not been trained for this procedure

Answer

Attempt the procedure while calling for help if needed

Answer

Do it this one time and request training later

Answer

Ask another CNA to supervise them while they attempt it

Question 4

Why is it important for CNAs to understand their scope of practice?

Accepted Answer

To protect residents from harm, protect themselves legally, and function effectively within the care team

Answer

So they can do as much as possible and relieve the nurses of work

Answer

It is only important for obtaining promotions

Answer

To know which tasks they can refuse without reason

Question 5

A CNA notices that a resident's IV site appears red and swollen. What is within the CNA's scope of practice to do?

Accepted Answer

Report the observation to the nurse immediately

Answer

Adjust the IV flow rate to reduce pressure at the site

Answer

Remove the IV catheter to prevent further irritation

Answer

Apply ice to the site and continue monitoring without reporting

Question 6

Which task demonstrates appropriate CNA practice within their scope?

Accepted Answer

Measuring and recording a resident's intake and output

Answer

Diagnosing a urinary tract infection based on urine color

Answer

Changing a central venous catheter dressing

Answer

Ordering a dietary consult for a malnourished resident