CNA Toileting and Elimination

Question 1

What is the first action a CNA should take when a resident uses the call light to request toileting assistance?

Accepted Answer

Respond promptly and assist the resident to the toilet or commode

Answer

Responding promptly to a call light for toileting is a dignity and safety priority. Delayed response increases the risk of incontinence, falls, and skin breakdown. The CNA should respond as quickly as possible and assist the resident to the toilet or commode.

Question 2

When performing perineal care for a female resident, in which direction should the CNA wipe?

Accepted Answer

Front to back, using a clean cloth for each stroke

Answer

Perineal care for female residents must be performed from front to back (anterior to posterior) to prevent fecal contamination of the urethra and vagina, which can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). A clean wipe or cloth should be used for each stroke.

Question 3

A resident has been using a bedpan. After removing the bedpan, what should the CNA do first?

Accepted Answer

Provide perineal care to the resident, then attend to the bedpan

Answer

After removing the bedpan, the first step is to provide perineal care to clean the resident, then cover and remove the bedpan, measure output if ordered, empty and clean the bedpan per facility protocol, and perform hand hygiene. Maintaining the resident's comfort and dignity throughout is essential.

Question 4

Which observation about a resident's urine output should the CNA report to the nurse?

Accepted Answer

Dark, cloudy, foul-smelling urine or urine with visible blood

Answer

Dark brown or red-tinged urine, blood in urine (hematuria), foul odor, cloudy appearance, or a significant decrease in urine output are all abnormal findings that must be reported promptly. These signs may indicate infection, dehydration, kidney problems, or other medical issues.

Question 5

How should a CNA help a resident who experiences frequent urinary incontinence?

Accepted Answer

Implement a scheduled toileting program and provide thorough skin care after any episodes

Answer

A prompted or scheduled toileting program is the standard approach for managing urinary incontinence. The CNA offers toileting assistance at regular intervals (e.g., every 2 hours), tracks patterns, and uses incontinence products as needed while ensuring thorough skin care to prevent breakdown.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Toileting and Elimination