CNA Toileting and Elimination 2

Question 1

How should a CNA position a female patient for bedpan use?

Accepted Answer

In a semi-recumbent position with head of bed raised, hips flat on the bedpan

Answer

Raising the head of the bed places the patient in a more natural position for elimination, reduces strain, and improves comfort and success.

Question 2

A patient has a urinary catheter. What is the correct position for the drainage bag?

Accepted Answer

Below the level of the bladder to maintain gravity drainage

Answer

The catheter drainage bag must always be kept below bladder level to use gravity for drainage and to prevent urine from flowing back into the bladder, which increases infection risk.

Question 3

A CNA notices a patient's urine output for the past 8 hours is only 100 mL. What should the CNA do?

Accepted Answer

Record it on the intake and output sheet and immediately report it to the nurse

Answer

Normal adult urine output is approximately 30 mL/hour or more. 100 mL over 8 hours (12.5 mL/hr) represents oliguria, which may indicate dehydration, renal failure, or hemodynamic compromise — requiring immediate nursing assessment.

Question 4

What should a CNA do when a patient reports straining and pain during a bowel movement?

Accepted Answer

Document the complaint and report it to the nurse

Answer

Pain and straining during defecation are clinical symptoms requiring nursing assessment. The CNA documents and reports — not treats — these findings.

Question 5

When assisting an incontinent patient with perineal care, in which direction should the CNA wipe?

Accepted Answer

Front to back to prevent fecal contamination of the urethral area

Answer

Front-to-back wiping prevents bacteria from the anal area from contaminating the urethra, significantly reducing urinary tract infection risk.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Toileting and Elimination 2