CNA Skills and Competencies

Question 1

Which clinical skill is considered a core competency that all CNAs must demonstrate during their certification exam?

Accepted Answer

Hand hygiene (handwashing technique)

Answer

Inserting an NG tube

Answer

Performing wound irrigation

Answer

Drawing blood for a CBC

Question 2

A CNA is performing a two-person transfer. What is each person's primary role?

Accepted Answer

One CNA supports the upper body/head and the other controls the lower body, coordinating movements together

Answer

Both CNAs lift from the same side

Answer

One CNA watches while the other does all the work

Answer

One CNA holds the transfer belt while the other operates the mechanical lift

Question 3

How should a CNA measure a resident's blood pressure using a manual sphygmomanometer?

Accepted Answer

Place the cuff 1 inch above the elbow, inflate 20–30 mmHg above palpated systolic, deflate slowly at 2–3 mmHg/sec

Answer

Inflate the cuff as high as possible and release it rapidly

Answer

Place the cuff over clothing for comfort

Answer

Use the dominant arm and measure while the resident is walking

Question 4

What is the correct site for measuring an axillary temperature?

Accepted Answer

In the center of the underarm (axilla) with the arm held close to the body

Answer

Under the tongue (sublingual)

Answer

In the rectum

Answer

Behind the ear (tympanic)

Question 5

When performing range of motion (ROM) exercises, how should the CNA move each joint?

Accepted Answer

Slowly and gently, supporting above and below the joint, stopping at the point of resistance

Answer

As fast as possible to complete the exercise set quickly

Answer

Force the joint through its full range even if the resident feels pain

Answer

Only move each joint once per session to prevent fatigue

Question 6

A CNA obtains a resident's temperature of 101.2°F orally. What should the CNA do?

Accepted Answer

Report the elevated temperature to the nurse promptly

Answer

Administer acetaminophen from the medication cart

Answer

Document it and check again at the end of the shift before reporting

Answer

Apply cooling blankets independently without notifying the nurse