DCW Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield DCW facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What does the term 'PRN' mean on a medication order? → Give as needed
2. What is the first step a Direct Care Worker should take when performing a new task for a client? → Check for any special instructions or training required
3. How often should a bedridden client typically be repositioned to prevent pressure injuries? → Every 2 hours
4. If a client refuses to eat for several meals in a row, what should the DCW do? → Document the refusal and report it to the supervisor
5. A client receives a new prescription from the doctor. Who is responsible for updating the medication administration record? → The licensed nurse or supervising clinician
6. Which of the following is an example of effective communication with a client? → Speaking slowly and clearly
7. A client with congestive heart failure (CHF) has a low-sodium diet order. Which snack should the DCW avoid serving? → Canned soup
8. Which of the following is an example of non-verbal communication that would likely make a client feel more at ease and trusting? → Facing the client with a relaxed posture and a pleasant facial expression.
9. How often should a Direct Care Worker wash their hands to prevent the spread of infection? → Before and after each client interaction
10. What is the purpose of maintaining client confidentiality? → To protect the client's privacy and personal information
11. Which of the following actions by a DCW best promotes the independence of an adult client with an intellectual disability? → Assisting the client to follow a picture-based recipe to make their own lunch.
12. Which of the following is an example of maintaining client confidentiality? → Sharing client information only with authorized personnel
13. What does the term 'thickened liquids' refer to in a care plan? → Liquids mixed with a thickening agent to a specified consistency to prevent choking
14. The primary purpose of assisting a client with their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is to: → Help the client maintain their health, safety, and personal independence.
15. When transferring a client from bed to wheelchair, on which side should the wheelchair be placed? → On the client's stronger side
16. A client tells you they have been taking double the prescribed dose on their own. What is the correct DCW response? → Document and report the information to a supervisor immediately
17. Which storage condition is most important for most oral medications? → Stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture
18. Why is it important for a Direct Care Worker to document care provided to clients? → To ensure continuity of care and accurate records
19. A DCW notices a medication bottle is significantly less full than it should be based on the refill date. What does this suggest? → The client may be taking more medication than prescribed
20. A client refuses their scheduled medication. Which action should the DCW take first? → Respect the refusal, document it, and notify the supervisor
21. To use a fire extinguisher correctly, a Direct Care Worker should remember the acronym P.A.S.S. What does the 'A' in P.A.S.S. stand for? → Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
22. What should a DCW do if a client says the medication makes them feel dizzy? → Document the complaint and report it to the supervisor or nurse
23. When using a mechanical (Hoyer) lift to transfer a client, what is the recommended minimum number of staff members present? → Two staff members — one to operate the lift and one to guide and support the client
24. A client has leftover prescription medications from a previous condition. What should the DCW do? → Report the unused medications to a supervisor or nurse for proper disposal
25. Which mobility aid provides the most stability for a client with significant balance problems? → Standard walker (pick-up or wheeled)
26. A client on a renal (kidney) diet should generally limit which of the following nutrients? → Potassium, phosphorus, and sodium
27. A client with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) begins to cough repeatedly during a meal. What should the DCW do? → Stop the meal immediately, sit the client upright, and notify the nurse or supervisor
28. Which of the following scenarios represents a violation of a client's right to confidentiality? → A DCW tells their spouse about a client's recent cancer diagnosis.
29. When assisting a client with mobility, what is an important safety measure? → Using proper body mechanics and assisting devices
30. The 'chain of infection' describes how pathogens are transmitted. Which of the following represents the 'portal of entry' link in this chain? → A break in a client's skin