General CNA Practice Nutrition and Hydration

Question 1

A resident on a dysphagia diet requires thickened liquids. The CNA should:

Accepted Answer

Provide liquids at the prescribed consistency only

Answer

Thickened liquids at the prescribed consistency are ordered to prevent aspiration in residents with swallowing difficulties.

Question 2

Which sign indicates a resident may be dehydrated?

Accepted Answer

Dark urine, dry mouth, and decreased skin turgor

Answer

Dark urine, dry mouth, and poor skin turgor are classic signs of dehydration indicating inadequate fluid intake.

Question 3

The CNA notices a resident is not eating well at meals. The FIRST action should be:

Accepted Answer

Observe and document the food intake, then report to the nurse

Answer

Observing intake, documenting it accurately, and reporting to the nurse allows the care team to address possible causes of poor appetite.

Question 4

A resident is on a low-sodium diet. Which food should the CNA avoid offering?

Accepted Answer

Canned soup

Answer

Canned soups are typically very high in sodium and are not appropriate for residents on low-sodium diets.

Question 5

Aspiration occurs when:

Accepted Answer

Food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus

Answer

Aspiration occurs when food, liquid, or secretions enter the trachea and lungs rather than being swallowed into the esophagus.

General Practice Test