CNA - Certified Nurse Aide Infection Control and Safety Questions and Answers

Question 1

A resident is on airborne precautions due to a suspected respiratory infection. When entering the resident's room, which piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) is MOST essential for the CNA to wear?

Accepted Answer

N95 respirator

Answer

Airborne precautions are required for diseases that are transmitted through small particles in the air, such as tuberculosis or measles. An N95 respirator is specifically designed to filter these small particles and protect the healthcare worker from inhaling them. A standard surgical mask does not provide adequate protection against airborne pathogens.

Question 2

What is the single most effective way a Certified Nurse Aide can prevent the spread of infection?

Accepted Answer

Proper and frequent hand hygiene

Answer

According to the CDC and numerous health organizations, proper and frequent hand hygiene (washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub) is the most important and effective measure to prevent the transmission of infections in healthcare settings. While other measures are important, hand hygiene is the cornerstone of infection prevention.

Question 3

A CNA is disposing of waste items from a resident's room. Which of the following items must be placed in a designated biohazard bag?

Accepted Answer

A wound dressing saturated with blood

Answer

Biohazard bags are used for waste contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) that can release these substances in a liquid or semi-liquid state if compressed. A dressing saturated with blood fits this description and must be disposed of as regulated medical waste. Items like used tissues or gowns from routine care without significant contamination are typically considered regular waste.

Question 4

When assisting a resident with personal care, a CNA should always wear gloves in which of the following situations?

Accepted Answer

When there is potential contact with blood or body fluids

Answer

Gloves are a critical barrier and part of Standard Precautions. They must be worn whenever there is a risk of contact with blood, body fluids, mucous membranes, or non-intact skin. This includes activities like oral care, perineal care, or handling soiled linens. Gloves are not typically required for activities like combing hair or taking blood pressure unless other risk factors are present.

Question 5

You are about to assist a resident with perineal care and notice you have a small, uncovered cut on your finger. What is the MOST appropriate initial action?

Accepted Answer

Wash the cut, apply an adhesive bandage, and then wear gloves.

Answer

A cut represents a break in the skin, which is a portal of entry for pathogens. The proper procedure is to wash the wound, cover it with a waterproof dressing to create a barrier, perform hand hygiene, and then apply gloves before providing patient care. This protects both the CNA from potential infection and the resident from exposure to the CNA's blood.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA - Certified Nurse Aide Infection Control and Safety Questions and Answers