Basic Nursing Skills 15 Flashcards
6 cards from real CNA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Basic Nursing Skills 15 flashcards as text
A stroke patient with aphasia tries to communicate but cannot find the right words. The MOST helpful CNA response is to:
Answer: Give the patient time to speak, listen patiently, and use yes/no questions to help clarify
Aphasia is a language processing disorder, not a hearing or intelligence problem; giving time, patience, and using yes/no questions respects the patient's autonomy and supports communication.
A stroke patient cannot swallow safely and has a nasogastric tube for feeding. When positioning for tube feeding, the CNA should:
Answer: Elevate the head of bed to at least 30–45 degrees during and for 1 hour after feeding
Head-of-bed elevation at 30–45 degrees during and after tube feeding reduces aspiration risk by using gravity to keep formula in the stomach rather than allowing it to reflux toward the airway.
When caring for a stroke patient's affected limb during personal care, the CNA should:
Answer: Handle the affected limb gently and support it throughout positioning and care activities
Gentle handling and full support of the affected limb prevents shoulder subluxation, joint injury, and pain in a limb that cannot protect itself through normal reflexes.
What does the term 'TIA' (transient ischemic attack) mean, and why is it important?
Answer: A brief episode of stroke-like symptoms lasting minutes to hours without permanent damage — a warning of impending stroke
A TIA is a temporary interruption of brain blood flow that produces stroke-like symptoms resolving within 24 hours — it is a medical emergency because up to 15% of TIA patients have a full stroke within 3 months.
Which behavior should the CNA encourage to help prevent a recurrent stroke in a patient with known cardiovascular risk factors?
Answer: Adhering to prescribed medications, a heart-healthy diet, and regular activity as approved by the physician
Secondary stroke prevention requires medication adherence, dietary modification, and appropriate physical activity — the CNA reinforces these behaviors as part of holistic care.
A hemiplegic stroke patient asks the CNA to help with active exercises for their affected arm. The CNA should:
Answer: Clarify that active exercises for the affected limb should be guided by the physical or occupational therapist per the care plan
Exercise programs for stroke rehabilitation must be coordinated through the physical or occupational therapist and incorporated into the care plan to ensure safe, evidence-based progression.