STNA Personal Care and Hygiene 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When performing oral care for an unconscious patient, the nurse aide should position the patient in which way?
- Supine with head tilted back
- Side-lying with head turned to the side (Correct answer)
- Sitting upright at 90 degrees
- Prone position
Correct answer: Side-lying with head turned to the side
Positioning an unconscious patient side-lying with the head turned prevents aspiration of fluids during oral care.
Question 2: How often should a bedridden patient's position be changed to prevent pressure injuries?
- Every 4 hours
- Every 6 hours
- Every 2 hours (Correct answer)
- Every 8 hours
Correct answer: Every 2 hours
Repositioning every 2 hours reduces sustained pressure on bony prominences and prevents pressure ulcer formation.
Question 3: Which water temperature is considered safe for a patient's bath?
- 105–115°F (40–46°C) (Correct answer)
- 90–95°F (32–35°C)
- 115–120°F (46–49°C)
- 80–85°F (27–29°C)
Correct answer: 105–115°F (40–46°C)
Bath water between 105–115°F is warm enough to be comfortable while minimizing the risk of burns.
Question 4: When providing perineal care for a female patient, in which direction should the nurse aide cleanse?
- Back to front
- Side to side
- Front to back (Correct answer)
- Circular motion only
Correct answer: Front to back
Cleansing front to back prevents introducing bacteria from the rectal area into the urinary tract.
Question 5: What is the correct technique for washing a patient's hair in bed?
- Use a dry shampoo only
- Place a shampoo trough under the head to collect water (Correct answer)
- Tilt the bed to 45 degrees and let water drain off the mattress
- Wrap hair in a dry towel without rinsing
Correct answer: Place a shampoo trough under the head to collect water
A shampoo trough placed under the patient's head directs water away from the bed and prevents soiling linens.
Question 6: Which action is most important before beginning any personal care procedure?
- Gather all supplies needed
- Tell the patient what you are going to do (Correct answer)
- Lower the bed to its lowest position
- Apply gloves immediately
Correct answer: Tell the patient what you are going to do
Explaining the procedure to the patient respects their dignity, reduces anxiety, and promotes cooperation.
STNA Personal Care and Hygiene 1
When performing oral care for an unconscious patient, the nurse aide should position the patient in which way?