Free HHA Basic Care and Comfort Questions and Answers 2 Flashcards

When providing a bed bath to a patient, what is the correct water temperature?

Answer: Comfortably warm water between 105–115°F (41–46°C)

Bed bath water should be comfortably warm — approximately 105–115°F. Water that is too hot can burn fragile skin; too cold causes discomfort and chilling.

Which position is generally recommended for a patient with dyspnea (difficulty breathing) while resting in bed?

Answer: Semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position (head elevated 30–90°)

Elevating the head of the bed in a Fowler's or semi-Fowler's position allows the diaphragm to drop, expanding lung capacity and easing breathing.

A patient has a pressure ulcer on their coccyx. How often should the home health aide reposition them?

Answer: Every 2 hours

Repositioning every 2 hours relieves sustained pressure on bony prominences, the primary cause of pressure ulcer formation and progression.

When assisting a patient to put on a shirt, which arm should be dressed first?

Answer: The weaker or affected arm

The weaker or affected arm is dressed first because it has less range of motion. The garment is then pulled over and the stronger arm inserted last, minimizing discomfort.

What is the purpose of passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises for a bedridden patient?

Answer: To prevent contractures and maintain joint flexibility

Passive ROM moves joints through their full range without patient effort, preventing stiffness, contractures, and circulatory problems in immobilized patients.

When making an occupied bed, the aide should keep the patient:

Answer: Turned to one side while one half of the bed is remade, then turned to the other side

Fan-folding clean linen to the center and rolling the patient from side to side allows complete linen change without removing the patient from the bed, ensuring comfort and safety.