Basic Nursing Skills 15 Flashcards

When measuring a patient's blood pressure, the cuff should be placed:

Answer: About 1–2 inches above the antecubital space

The BP cuff should be positioned approximately 1–2 inches (2–3 cm) above the antecubital space to allow proper auscultation over the brachial artery.

A patient has an order for intake and output (I&O). Which of the following should be recorded as output?

Answer: Wound drainage collected in a drain

Output includes all fluids leaving the body such as urine, emesis, wound drainage, and ostomy output.

Which technique is used to prevent friction and shear when moving a patient up in bed?

Answer: Using a lift sheet or draw sheet

A lift or draw sheet reduces friction and shear forces on the patient's skin during repositioning.

The pulse oximeter reading on a patient drops from 98% to 90%. The CNA should first:

Answer: Reposition the probe and check for circulation issues

A low reading may be caused by poor probe placement, nail polish, or cold fingers; the CNA should verify the reading before escalating.

A patient with dysphagia is eating lunch. Which observation should be reported to the nurse immediately?

Answer: The patient coughs repeatedly during eating

Repeated coughing during meals in a patient with dysphagia may signal aspiration, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

When providing a complete bed bath, which area of the body should be washed last?

Answer: Perineal area

The perineal area is washed last to prevent spreading microorganisms from the genitourinary or rectal area to cleaner body regions.

A CNA is applying a warm compress to a patient's arm. To prevent burns, the temperature of the water should not exceed:

Answer: 105°F (41°C)

Warm compresses should use water no hotter than approximately 105°F (41°C) to prevent thermal burns, especially in patients with reduced sensation.