- Health Care Assistant Personal Care and Mobility Questions and Answers Flashcards
6 cards from real HCA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 - Health Care Assistant Personal Care and Mobility Questions and Answers flashcards as text
When trimming a diabetic resident's toenails, what should the HCA do?
Answer: Refer to the care plan; if not authorized for the HCA, report the need to the nurse for a foot care nurse referral rather than trimming independently
Foot care for diabetic residents is a high-risk task due to poor circulation and neuropathy; it typically requires a trained foot care nurse.
A resident with a right-sided weakness (hemiplegia) is being dressed. What is the correct approach?
Answer: Dress the weak (right) side first and undress the weak side last
The affected (weak) limb is dressed first because it has the least range of motion; undressing follows the reverse order (strong side first).
A resident requests a shower but their care plan specifies a bed bath. What should the HCA do?
Answer: Acknowledge the preference, explain the care plan, and discuss with the resident; escalate to the nurse to review whether the care plan can be updated
Resident preferences should be accommodated where possible; discrepancies between preference and care plan must be escalated for review, not unilaterally resolved.
Which of the following is a correct technique when assisting a resident with ambulation using a standard walker?
Answer: The resident moves the walker forward first, then steps with the weaker leg, then the stronger leg
The correct walker gait pattern: advance walker, step with the weak leg, follow with the strong leg to provide stability through the transfer.
How should an HCA assist a resident with oral hygiene if the resident is semiconscious or at risk of aspiration?
Answer: Position the resident in a side-lying position or with head turned to the side, use small amounts of water or foam swabs, and suction if available per the care plan
A side-lying or turned head position with minimal fluid reduces aspiration risk during oral care for at-risk residents.
A resident with severe arthritis in their hands is having difficulty fastening clothing. What is the most appropriate HCA response?
Answer: Suggest adaptive clothing with Velcro or magnetic closures and report the difficulty to the occupational therapist
Adaptive clothing and occupational therapy referral support independence and dignity rather than creating dependence.