GNA Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Which of the following is the correct technique when counting respirations? → Count without informing the resident to avoid altering breathing
2. When inspecting a resident's skin, redness that does not turn white (blanch) when pressed indicates: → A stage 1 pressure injury
3. Which of the following BEST describes the primary philosophy of hospice care? → To focus on comfort, dignity, and quality of life when a cure is not possible.
4. A resident on a thickened-liquid diet asks for a glass of water. The GNA should: → Report to the nurse and follow the care plan
5. When measuring vital signs in an elderly resident, which change is considered a normal part of aging that the nursing assistant should be aware of? → Blood pressure that tends to be slightly higher than in younger adults
6. A resident receiving end-of-life care tells the GNA, "I'm so scared of dying." What is the MOST therapeutic response from the GNA? → "Would you like to talk about what is making you feel scared?"
7. A GNA is assigned to assist a resident with bathing. Which action best ensures the resident's dignity and safety during this ADL? → Ensuring the resident is properly covered and the water temperature is safe.
8. During rounds, a GNA discovers a frayed electrical cord on a resident's personal lamp. Which of the following is the most appropriate immediate action? → Unplug the lamp, remove it from the resident's room, and report the hazard.
9. When a GNA promotes a resident's independence in performing ADLs, what is the primary goal? → To enhance the resident's self-esteem and functional ability.
10. Mr. Jones is a resident who can feed himself but has difficulty getting out of his bed and moving to a chair. Which ADL does he need assistance with? → Transferring
11. A GNA is caring for a resident who is actively dying. Which of the following are common physical signs that death is approaching? → Irregular breathing patterns (like Cheyne-Stokes) and mottling of the skin.
12. When assisting a dependent resident to move up in bed, what is the safest and most effective method for the GNA to use? → Ask a coworker for help and use a draw sheet or slide sheet.
13. When providing postmortem care for a resident who has just passed away, what is a primary responsibility of the GNA? → Treating the body with dignity while performing a final bath and positioning.
14. Which resident characteristic increases the risk of developing a pressure injury? → Limited mobility and poor circulation
15. Which behavior at mealtime should the GNA report to the nurse as a potential swallowing problem? → Resident coughs or chokes repeatedly while eating
16. Moisture from incontinence increases the risk of skin breakdown primarily because it: → Softens and weakens the skin, making it more vulnerable to injury
17. Which of the following blood pressure readings would be considered hypotensive (abnormally low) for most adults? → 88/52 mmHg
18. A licensed nurse delegates the task of obtaining a resident's weight to a GNA. Before performing the task, the GNA has a responsibility to: → Confirm they understand the instructions and feel competent to perform the task safely.
19. Which of the following is considered a basic Activity of Daily Living (ADL)? → Dressing oneself
20. When bathing a resident, the GNA should inspect the skin for: → Redness, blisters, open areas, bruising, or changes since last assessment
21. Which of the following is an early sign of hypoxia (low blood oxygen) that the nursing assistant should report? → Restlessness and confusion
22. A resident has a reddened area on the heel that does not blanch. The GNA should: → Document findings and report to the nurse immediately
23. Which site is most commonly used to count the pulse rate in a nursing assistant's routine assessment? → Radial artery at the wrist
24. A GNA is trying to communicate with a resident who has a significant hearing impairment and dementia. Which action is most effective? → Using simple sentences and gesturing or pointing.
25. Which of the following actions should the nursing assistant take BEFORE measuring a resident's blood pressure? → Ensure the resident has rested for at least 5 minutes in a seated position
26. A resident with dysphagia is at highest risk for which complication during meals? → Aspiration pneumonia
27. The nursing assistant documents a resident's respirations as 'labored.' What does this term mean? → The resident requires visible effort or appears to be struggling to breathe
28. A GNA accidentally sustains a needlestick injury from a used lancet while performing a blood glucose check. What is the GNA's first priority? → Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
29. When counting a resident's pulse, the nursing assistant notices the rhythm is irregular. What is the best action? → Count the pulse for a full minute and report the finding to the nurse
30. The nursing assistant notices a resident's skin is pale, cool, and clammy. Which vital sign change is most consistent with these findings? → Low blood pressure and rapid pulse