CNA Basic Nursing Skills 8 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When applying a warm compress to a patient's arm, the CNA should check the skin underneath the compress every:
- 5 minutes (Correct answer)
- 15 minutes
- 30 minutes
- 60 minutes
Correct answer: 5 minutes
Warm compresses should be checked every 5 minutes to prevent burns or skin damage.
Question 2: A patient's urine output for an 8-hour shift is 240 mL. The CNA should:
- Document it as normal
- Report it to the nurse immediately (Correct answer)
- Encourage the patient to drink more fluids without notifying the nurse
- Recheck in 4 hours before reporting
Correct answer: Report it to the nurse immediately
Normal urine output is about 30 mL/hour (240 mL/8 hours is at the low threshold), and any concerns about output should be reported promptly to the nurse.
Question 3: When performing passive range of motion (ROM) exercises, the CNA should:
- Move each joint as fast as possible to save time
- Support the joint above and below while moving slowly and gently (Correct answer)
- Push through resistance to improve flexibility
- Only move joints that are painful to strengthen them
Correct answer: Support the joint above and below while moving slowly and gently
Supporting above and below the joint ensures safety and prevents injury during passive ROM.
Question 4: Which action is correct when emptying a urinary catheter drainage bag?
- Drain the bag directly into the toilet without measuring
- Use a clean graduate for each patient and measure output accurately (Correct answer)
- Wear no gloves since urine is sterile
- Leave the drainage port open after emptying to prevent pressure buildup
Correct answer: Use a clean graduate for each patient and measure output accurately
A clean graduate must be used per patient to prevent cross-contamination, and output must be accurately measured and documented.
Question 5: A resident with dementia refuses to take a bath. The BEST response by the CNA is to:
- Insist and proceed with the bath immediately
- Offer a sponge bath or wash-up at a different time when the resident is calmer (Correct answer)
- Document the refusal and take no further action
- Restrain the resident to complete the bath safely
Correct answer: Offer a sponge bath or wash-up at a different time when the resident is calmer
Offering alternatives and approaching at a calmer time respects the resident's dignity while still meeting hygiene needs.
Question 6: The purpose of applying an elastic (compression) bandage is to:
- Immobilize a fracture permanently
- Reduce swelling and provide support to an extremity (Correct answer)
- Replace the function of a cast
- Warm the extremity to promote circulation
Correct answer: Reduce swelling and provide support to an extremity
Elastic bandages reduce edema and provide support, often after injury or surgery.
Question 7: When shaving a male resident's face with a safety razor, the CNA should shave in which direction?
- Against the direction of hair growth
- In the direction of hair growth (Correct answer)
- In circular motions only
- Upward strokes only regardless of hair growth
Correct answer: In the direction of hair growth
Shaving in the direction of hair growth reduces skin irritation and the risk of cuts.
CNA Basic Nursing Skills 8 3
When applying a warm compress to a patient's arm, the CNA should check the skin underneath the compress every: