Patient Care and Safety Flashcards

A nursing assistant observes that a resident's intravenous (IV) site is swollen and the skin feels cool. This most likely indicates:

Answer: Infiltration of IV fluid into surrounding tissue

Swelling and cool skin at an IV site are classic signs of infiltration, where fluid leaks into surrounding tissue rather than the vein.

Which scenario correctly demonstrates safe oxygen safety practices in a patient care area?

Answer: Posting 'No Smoking/Oxygen in Use' signs outside the room

Posting 'No Smoking/Oxygen in Use' signs is a required safety measure because oxygen accelerates combustion and creates fire risk.

A resident with dysphagia (swallowing difficulty) is ordered a nectar-thick liquid diet. The nursing assistant should:

Answer: Ensure all liquids are thickened to the ordered consistency before serving

All liquids must be thickened to the prescribed consistency to reduce aspiration risk in residents with dysphagia.

Which statement about using side rails is accurate under current nursing home safety standards?

Answer: Side rails are classified as restraints if they prevent the resident from getting out of bed

CMS guidelines classify raised full side rails as restraints when they restrict a resident's ability to exit the bed voluntarily.

A nursing assistant is helping a resident who uses a cane walk down a hallway. The cane should be held:

Answer: On the opposite side from the weaker leg

The cane is held on the stronger side so it can bear weight during the weak-leg step, providing lateral support and balance.

What is the correct way for a nursing assistant to respond when a resident refuses a prescribed treatment?

Answer: Document the refusal and report it to the nurse

Competent residents have the right to refuse treatment; the nursing assistant must document and promptly report the refusal to the nurse.

When performing range-of-motion (ROM) exercises on a resident's joints, the nursing assistant should stop if:

Answer: The resident expresses pain or significant resistance

Pain or significant resistance during ROM indicates possible injury or joint damage—stop immediately and notify the nurse.