State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Residents with Parkinson's disease often require assistance with walking because they:

Have a shuffling walk and tremors. (Correct answer)
Have poor attention skills and do not notice safety problems.
Become confused and forget how to take steps without help.
Have visual problems that require special glasses.

Correct answer: Have a shuffling walk and tremors.

Parkinson's disease is characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, which often manifest as a shuffling gait. This distinctive walking pattern, combined with tremors and impaired balance, significantly increases the risk of falls. Therefore, residents with Parkinson's frequently require assistance with walking to ensure their safety and mobility.

Question 2: A resident is on a bladder retraining program. The nurse aide should expect the resident to:

Have a schedule for toileting. (Correct answer)
Have a fluid intake restriction to prevent sudden urges to urinate.
Have an indwelling urinary catheter.
Wear an incontinent brief in case of an accident.

Correct answer: Have a schedule for toileting.

Bladder retraining programs are designed to help residents regain control over urination by establishing a regular, timed toileting schedule. This involves taking the resident to the bathroom at specific intervals, gradually increasing the time between voids. The goal is to re-establish a predictable pattern of urination and improve bladder capacity, reducing episodes of incontinence.

Question 3: How long should the nursing assistant clean hands fully and completely after adequately washing them?

Ten seconds.
Fifteen seconds.
Twenty seconds. (Correct answer)
Five seconds.

Correct answer: Twenty seconds.

The CDC and most other handwashing guidelines advise spending 20 seconds cleaning your hands.

Question 4: A resident who is lying in bed suddenly becomes short of breath. After calling for help, the nurse aide's next action should be to:

Elevate the resident's feet.
Take the resident's vital signs.
Raise the head of the bed. (Correct answer)
Ask the resident to take deep breaths.

Correct answer: Raise the head of the bed.

When a resident suddenly becomes short of breath, the immediate action after calling for help is to raise the head of the bed. This position, known as Fowler's position, helps to expand the lungs and ease breathing by reducing pressure on the diaphragm. It provides immediate relief and improves oxygen intake while waiting for further medical assistance.

Question 5: A resident asks the nursing assistant to keep a secret about abuse from another staff member. What should the CNA do?

Report the abuse immediately as a mandatory reporter (Correct answer)
Keep the secret to maintain the resident's trust
Tell only the accused staff member to resolve it internally
Wait to see if the resident mentions it again

Correct answer: Report the abuse immediately as a mandatory reporter

CNAs are mandatory reporters and must immediately report all suspected or disclosed abuse, regardless of confidentiality requests.

Question 6: Which of the following statements BEST describes abduction?

When you bend the extremity
When you move the extremity towards the body
When you move the extremity away from the body (Correct answer)
When you extend the extremity

Correct answer: When you move the extremity away from the body

In anatomical terminology, abduction refers to the movement of a limb or body part away from the midline of the body. For example, lifting your arm out to the side is abduction of the shoulder. Conversely, adduction is the movement towards the midline of the body.

Question 7: A resident asks the CNA not to tell their spouse about a new diagnosis. What should the CNA do?

Honor the resident's confidentiality and inform the nurse of the request (Correct answer)
Tell the spouse anyway since they have a right to know
Document it but share the information with the spouse discreetly
Do nothing since the diagnosis is the physician's responsibility

Correct answer: Honor the resident's confidentiality and inform the nurse of the request

Residents have the right to control their own health information; the nurse should be informed to ensure this preference is respected by all staff.

Question 8: If you have a patient who cannot independently perform range of motion, your job is to help them by performing passive range of motion (PROM). PROM will help the patient with all of the following EXCEPT:

Increase his or her nutrition (Correct answer)
Increase his or her circulation
Increase his or her joint motion
Protect his or her muscles from atrophy

Correct answer: Increase his or her nutrition

Passive Range of Motion (PROM) exercises involve a caregiver moving a patient's joints through their full range of motion when the patient cannot do so independently. PROM is beneficial for preventing muscle atrophy, improving circulation, and maintaining joint flexibility. However, these exercises do not directly influence or increase a patient's nutritional intake or status, which is primarily determined by diet.

Question 9: When a resident refuses a bedbath, the nurse aide should:

Remind the resident that people who smell don't have friends.
Offer the resident a bribe.
Tell the resident that the nursing home policy requires daily bathing.
Wait a while and then ask the resident again. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Wait a while and then ask the resident again.

Residents have the right to refuse care, and their autonomy must be respected. If a resident initially refuses a bedbath, waiting a while and then gently asking again allows for a potential change in their mood or readiness. This approach maintains their dignity and provides an opportunity for them to accept care later without feeling coerced.

Question 10: Which of the following is the correct procedure for serving a meal to a client who must be fed?

Serve the tray along with all the other trays, and then come back to feed the client
Have the kitchen hold the tray for one hour
Bring the tray into the room when you are ready to feed the client (Correct answer)
Bring the tray to the client last; feed after you have served all other clients

Correct answer: Bring the tray into the room when you are ready to feed the client

For a client who needs to be fed, bringing the tray into the room only when the nurse aide is ready to feed them ensures the food remains at the appropriate temperature and is served fresh. This practice prevents the client from waiting unnecessarily or the food getting cold, promoting a more pleasant and nutritious meal experience.

Question 11: A resident who is inactive is at the risk of constipation. In addition to increased activity and exercise, which of the following actions helps to prevent constipation?

High protein diet
Adequate fluid intake (Correct answer)
Low fiber diet
Regular mealtimes

Correct answer: Adequate fluid intake

Adequate fluid intake is crucial for preventing constipation because water helps soften stool and adds bulk, making it easier to pass through the digestive system. Dehydration can lead to hard, dry stools, exacerbating constipation. Combined with increased activity and a high-fiber diet, proper hydration is a cornerstone of maintaining bowel regularity.

Question 12: An important way to reduce the incidence of decubitus ulcers is to:

Force fluids every 2 hours
All of the above
Keep the client in bed
Change position every 2 hours (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Change position every 2 hours

Decubitus ulcers, or pressure sores, are caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, which restricts blood flow and leads to tissue damage. The most effective preventative measure, especially for immobile clients, is to regularly change their position, typically every two hours. This relieves pressure on vulnerable areas, allowing blood flow to resume and preventing skin breakdown.

Question 13: Which of the following is essential care when giving a resident a bath?

Permit caregiving to encourage a feeling of independence. (Correct answer)
When giving the patient a bath, use cool water to encourage improved circulation.
Before helping a patient clean their face, clean their perinea.
Take care of the resident in every way possible to save energy.

Correct answer: Permit caregiving to encourage a feeling of independence.

Encouraging the resident to take part in their care will boost their self-confidence and grant them independence. Cleaning the perineum before the face or using cool water instead of comfortably warm water is incorrect.

Question 14: The MOST serious problem that wrinkles in bedclothes can cause is:

Bleeding and shock
Restlessness
Sleeplessness
Decubitus ulcers (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Decubitus ulcers

Wrinkles in bedclothes create friction and pressure points against a patient's skin, especially for those with limited mobility. This constant pressure and shearing force can impede blood flow to the affected areas, leading to tissue damage and the formation of decubitus ulcers, also known as pressure sores. Preventing these ulcers is a critical aspect of an STNA's role in maintaining patient skin integrity and comfort.

Question 15: Which statement by a resident requires immediate reporting to the nurse?

I miss my family.
I have a plan to end my life. (Correct answer)
I feel sad sometimes.
I wish things were different.

Correct answer: I have a plan to end my life.

A statement about having a plan to end one's life indicates suicidal ideation with intent and requires immediate reporting to the nurse for safety intervention.

Question 16: Gloves should be worn for which of the following procedures?

Brushing a resident's hair
Feeding a resident
Ambulating a resident
Emptying a urinary drainage bag (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Emptying a urinary drainage bag

Gloves should always be worn when there is a potential for contact with body fluids, secretions, excretions, or contaminated items, as per standard precautions. Emptying a urinary drainage bag involves direct contact with urine, which is a body fluid, making glove use essential to prevent the spread of microorganisms and protect the healthcare worker from potential pathogens.

Question 17: You are assigned a hemiplegia patient. Which of the following options BEST describes what the patient’s medical condition is?

The patient’s entire right side of his or her body is paralyzed (Correct answer)
The patient’s lower half of his or her body is paralyzed
The patient has been diagnosed with a blood condition
The patient has blood clots in his or her lower extremities

Correct answer: The patient’s entire right side of his or her body is paralyzed

Hemiplegia is a medical term derived from 'hemi-' meaning half, and '-plegia' meaning paralysis. Therefore, a patient with hemiplegia experiences paralysis affecting one entire side of their body, either the right or the left. This condition is distinct from paralysis of only the lower half of the body (paraplegia) or general blood conditions.

Question 18: It is NOT appropriate to measure the patient's typical upper arm blood pressure when the patient:

cries, "This is the fifth time today."
had the lymph nodes surrounding the left arm's axilla excised.
Has both left and right arm IV catheters. (Correct answer)
suffers with heart failure.

Correct answer: Has both left and right arm IV catheters.

The intravenous flow of the patient will be impeded by a blood pressure cuff if they have IV catheters in both arms.

Question 19: A resident has an indwelling urinary catheter. While making rounds, the nurse aide notices that there is no urine in the drainage bag. The nurse aide should first:

Offer the resident fluid intake.
Ask the resident to try urinating.
Obtain a new urinary drainage bag.
Check for kinks in the tubing. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Check for kinks in the tubing.

If there is no urine in an indwelling urinary catheter drainage bag, the nurse aide's first and most immediate action should be to check for any kinks or obstructions in the tubing. This is a common and easily rectifiable cause of blocked urine flow, which can prevent discomfort and potential complications for the resident. Addressing this simple issue first can often resolve the problem.

Question 20: When a person is admitted to the nursing home, the nurse aide should expect that the resident will:

Have problems related to incontinence.
Require a lot of assistance with personal care.
Experience a sense of loss related to the life change. (Correct answer)
Adjust more quickly if admitted directly from the hospital.

Correct answer: Experience a sense of loss related to the life change.

Admission to a nursing home often represents a significant life change for residents, involving the loss of independence, familiar surroundings, and established routines. It is common for residents to experience feelings of grief, sadness, and loss as they adjust to this new environment. Recognizing and addressing these emotional needs is crucial for their overall well-being and successful transition.

Question 21: How should you record a patient’s output?

Using cubic meters and liters
Using cubic centimeters or milliliters (Correct answer)
Using millimeters and centimeters
Using grams and kilograms

Correct answer: Using cubic centimeters or milliliters

In healthcare, patient output, such as urine, emesis, or wound drainage, is consistently measured and recorded using the metric units of cubic centimeters (cc) or milliliters (mL). These units are equivalent (1 cc = 1 mL) and are the standard for accurate fluid balance tracking. This ensures uniformity and precision in patient care documentation.

Question 22: It is prescribed that a person with an indwelling urinary catheter walk twice a day. Prior to helping the customer walk, the nursing assistant ought to:

Keep the pouch below the level of your bladder. (Correct answer)
Ask the patient to put a pillow sleeve over the bag.
Lift the bag up above the level of the bladder.
Verify this order with the nurse.

Correct answer: Keep the pouch below the level of your bladder.

By keeping the bag below the cavity's level, you can prevent bacteria from using gravity to move up from the bag and into the bladder.

Question 23: When assisting a client with eating, one of the FIRST things the nurse aide should do is:

Cut the food into large bite-size pieces.
Wash his/her hands and the client's hands. (Correct answer)
Butter the client's bread.
Provide the client with privacy.

Correct answer: Wash his/her hands and the client's hands.

Hand hygiene is the most critical step in preventing the spread of infection in healthcare settings. Before assisting a client with eating, the nurse aide must wash their own hands and ensure the client's hands are clean. This prevents the transfer of germs to the food or the client, promoting a safe and healthy environment.

Question 24: What destroys microbes?

Heat and light (Correct answer)
Darkness
Air
Moisture

Correct answer: Heat and light

Heat, especially high temperatures used in sterilization and disinfection, effectively destroys microbes by denaturing their proteins and damaging their cellular structures. Certain types of light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, can also destroy microbes by damaging their DNA. Conversely, darkness and moisture often promote microbial growth rather than destroying them.

Question 25: A resident's wife recently died. The resident is now staying in his room all the time and eating very little. The best response by the nurse aide is to:

Tell the resident that he needs to get out of his room at least once a day.
Understand the resident is grieving and give him chances to talk. (Correct answer)
Avoid mentioning his wife when caring for him.
Remind the resident to be thankful for the years he shared with his wife.

Correct answer: Understand the resident is grieving and give him chances to talk.

The resident is experiencing grief, which is a normal and profound reaction to the loss of a loved one. The best response is to offer empathy and support, creating an environment where the resident feels comfortable expressing their feelings. Encouraging conversation and active listening validates their emotions and helps them process their grief.

Question 26: Which of the following options is NOT when you would use a gait belt on a patient?

When you are moving a patient from a chair to a bed
When you are moving a patient from a bed to a wheelchair
When you are moving a patient from the supine position to the Sim’s position (Correct answer)
When you are moving a patient from a bed to a stretcher

Correct answer: When you are moving a patient from the supine position to the Sim’s position

A gait belt, also known as a transfer belt, is a safety device used by healthcare professionals to assist patients with standing, walking, or transferring between surfaces like a bed, chair, or stretcher. Moving a patient from the supine position (lying on their back) to Sim's position (a semi-prone side-lying position) is a repositioning task performed within the bed, which typically does not require the use of a gait belt.

Question 27: When cleansing the genital area during perineal care, the nurse aide should:

Replace the foreskin when pushed back to cleanse an uncircumcised penis. (Correct answer)
Cleanse the penis with a circular motion starting from the base and moving toward the tip.
Use the same area on the washcloth for each washing and rinsing stroke for a female resident.
Cleanse the rectal area first, before cleansing the genital area.

Correct answer: Replace the foreskin when pushed back to cleanse an uncircumcised penis.

When providing perineal care for an uncircumcised male, the foreskin must be gently retracted to ensure thorough cleaning of the glans. After cleaning, it is absolutely critical to return the foreskin to its natural position. Failure to do so can lead to paraphimosis, a painful and serious condition where the retracted foreskin becomes trapped and restricts blood flow.

Question 28: You’ve asked a patient about their pain but have received a lengthy response without an answer. You then state “Describe for me your hip pain.” <br><br> This statement demonstrates what aspect of communication?

Focusing (Correct answer)
Clarifying
Silence
Repeating

Correct answer: Focusing

When a patient gives a lengthy, unhelpful response, stating "Describe for me your hip pain" is an example of focusing. This communication technique helps to narrow the conversation to a specific, relevant topic. It guides the patient to provide more precise and useful information, preventing them from straying off-topic and ensuring the nurse aide gathers the necessary details.

Question 29: Which of the following is a job task performed by the nurse aide?

Changing sterile wound dressings.
Participating in resident care planning conferences. (Correct answer)
Taking a telephone order from a physician.
Giving medications to assigned residents.

Correct answer: Participating in resident care planning conferences.

Nurse aides are vital members of the healthcare team and their observations about a resident's daily needs, preferences, and responses to care are crucial for effective care planning. Participating in resident care planning conferences allows them to contribute valuable insights and ensure the care plan is person-centered. Other tasks listed are typically within the scope of licensed nurses.

Question 30: While giving a bed bath, the nurse aide hears the alarm from a nearby door suddenly go off. The nurse aide should:

Stop the bed bath and go check on the location of all assigned residents.
Make the resident being bathed safe and go check the door right away. (Correct answer)
Report the alarm to the charge nurse immediately.
Wait a few minutes to see if the alarm stops.

Correct answer: Make the resident being bathed safe and go check the door right away.

A door alarm indicates a potential safety risk, such as a resident eloping or an unauthorized person entering. The nurse aide's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of the resident currently in their care before responding to the alarm. Once the resident is safe, the nurse aide must immediately investigate the alarm to prevent harm or address the security breach.

Question 31: Validation therapy is most appropriate for which type of resident?

Residents with newly diagnosed hypertension
Residents with dementia experiencing confusion about time and place (Correct answer)
Residents recovering from surgery
Residents with physical disabilities

Correct answer: Residents with dementia experiencing confusion about time and place

Validation therapy acknowledges and respects the feelings of residents with dementia, reducing distress by entering their reality rather than correcting it.

Question 32: A resident's room is being searched by staff looking for a missing item. What right may be at risk?

Right to manage personal finances
Right to receive visitors
Right to privacy and personal space (Correct answer)
Right to participate in activities

Correct answer: Right to privacy and personal space

Searching a resident's personal space without consent or proper authority violates their right to privacy.

Question 33: When walking a resident, a gait or transfer belt is often:

Used to keep the resident positioned properly in the wheelchair.
Worn around the nurse aide's waist for back support.
Used to help stand the resident, and then removed before walking.
Put around the resident's waist to provide a way to hold onto the resident. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Put around the resident's waist to provide a way to hold onto the resident.

A gait or transfer belt is a safety device specifically designed to be placed around a resident's waist, over their clothing. It provides a secure and firm grasp for the nurse aide, allowing them to safely support and stabilize the resident during transfers or ambulation. This helps prevent falls and allows the aide to assist without pulling on the resident's arms or clothing.

Question 34: Which of the following statements is TRUE in regards to administering a cleansing enema?

The enema bag should be hung 24 inches above the bed
The enema bag should be secured to the bed frame
The enema bag should be hung on the IV pole with the tubing at the bottom (Correct answer)
The enema bag should be placed at the same height as the patient’s anus

Correct answer: The enema bag should be hung on the IV pole with the tubing at the bottom

When administering a cleansing enema, the enema bag is typically hung on an IV pole to utilize gravity for a controlled flow of the solution into the rectum. The tubing should be positioned at the bottom of the bag to allow the fluid to drain effectively. The height of the bag, usually 12-18 inches above the patient's anus, is crucial for regulating the flow rate and preventing discomfort.

Question 35: The doctor has told the resident that his cancer is growing and that he is dying. When the resident tells the nurse aide that there is a mistake, the nurse aide should:

Ask if the resident is afraid of dying.
Understand that denial is a normal reaction. (Correct answer)
Suggest the resident ask for more tests.
Remind the resident the doctor would not lie.

Correct answer: Understand that denial is a normal reaction.

Denial is one of the five stages of grief and is a common initial reaction when facing a terminal diagnosis. It serves as a psychological defense mechanism to cope with overwhelming news. The nurse aide should recognize this as a normal part of the grieving process and offer supportive presence without challenging the resident's current state of mind.

Question 36: When providing foot care to a resident it is important for the nurse aide to:

Keep the water cool to prevent burns
Check the feet for skin breakdown (Correct answer)
Remove calluses and corns
Apply lotion, including between the toes

Correct answer: Check the feet for skin breakdown

When providing foot care, especially for residents with conditions like diabetes or circulatory issues, it is paramount for the nurse aide to thoroughly inspect the feet for any signs of skin breakdown. Early detection of redness, sores, blisters, or other abnormalities can prevent serious complications such as infections or ulcers. Removing calluses or applying lotion between toes are generally not within an STNA's scope or recommended practice.

Question 37: A resident who is alert and oriented declines a bath. What is the appropriate response?

Insist until the resident agrees for their own health
Proceed with the bath since hygiene is medically necessary
Respect the refusal, offer alternatives, and document and report (Correct answer)
Involve the family to override the resident's decision

Correct answer: Respect the refusal, offer alternatives, and document and report

A competent resident's right to refuse care must be respected; the CNA should offer alternatives, document, and notify the nurse.

Question 38: A resident refuses to eat, bathe, or participate in any activities for several days. The nursing assistant should:

Respect the resident's wishes and document nothing
Report the behavior change to the nurse (Correct answer)
Tell other residents to encourage the person
Force the resident to participate for their own good

Correct answer: Report the behavior change to the nurse

A sudden change in behavior such as refusing care and activities may indicate a mental health issue and must be reported to the nurse for evaluation.

Question 39: A resident with bipolar disorder is exhibiting a manic episode, speaking rapidly and attempting to leave the facility. The nursing assistant should:

Argue with the resident about the risks of leaving
Allow the resident to leave to prevent escalation
Calmly redirect the resident and notify the nurse (Correct answer)
Physically restrain the resident immediately

Correct answer: Calmly redirect the resident and notify the nurse

Calmly redirecting the resident and notifying the nurse ensures safety while de-escalating the situation within the nursing assistant's scope of practice.

Question 40: Which of the following is a resident's right under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987?

To have the facility manage all their personal finances.
To be free from physical and chemical restraints imposed for discipline or convenience. (Correct answer)
To receive care only from physicians employed by the facility.
To choose their own roommate, regardless of availability.

Correct answer: To be free from physical and chemical restraints imposed for discipline or convenience.

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987 established a set of regulations to protect the rights of residents in long-term care facilities, including the right to be free from unnecessary physical or chemical restraints.

Question 41: A resident who uses a wheelchair wants to self-propel to the dining room but it will make them late for the meal. What should the CNA do?

Allow the resident to self-propel and notify dietary if they will be late (Correct answer)
Discourage self-propelling to prevent exhaustion
Push the wheelchair to ensure the resident arrives on time
Ask the family to decide what is best

Correct answer: Allow the resident to self-propel and notify dietary if they will be late

Residents have the right to independence and self-determination; minor schedule adjustments should accommodate their autonomy.

Question 42: A resident frequently talks about feeling worthless and hopeless. Which action should the nursing assistant take first?

Tell the resident these feelings will pass
Distract the resident with an activity
Report the statements to the nurse immediately (Correct answer)
Leave the resident alone to process their feelings

Correct answer: Report the statements to the nurse immediately

Statements indicating worthlessness and hopelessness may signal depression or suicidal ideation and must be reported to the nurse immediately for proper assessment.

Question 43: While giving an unconscious patient a bath, it is important to:

Perform a passive range of motion to all joints. (Correct answer)
Call the physical therapist to exercise the patient afterward.
Let the charge nurse exercise the patient's joints.
Exercise the patient only if the doctor has ordered it

Correct answer: Perform a passive range of motion to all joints.

For an unconscious patient, performing passive range of motion (PROM) exercises during a bath is vital. These exercises help prevent joint stiffness, contractures, and muscle atrophy, while also promoting circulation. Maintaining joint mobility is crucial for the patient's long-term physical health and potential for recovery.

Question 44: A resident who has stress incontinence:

Will have an indwelling urinary catheter.
Needs toileting every 1-2 hours throughout the day.
May leak urine when laughing or coughing. (Correct answer)
Should wear an incontinent brief at night.

Correct answer: May leak urine when laughing or coughing.

Stress incontinence is characterized by the involuntary leakage of urine that occurs with activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or lifting. This happens due to weakened pelvic floor muscles or a compromised urethral sphincter. It is a common type of incontinence, particularly prevalent in women.

Question 45: Before touching a resident who is crying to offer comfort, the nurse aide should consider:

Whether the resident has family that visits routinely.
The resident's cultural background. (Correct answer)
The resident's recent vital signs.
Whether the resident has been sad recently.

Correct answer: The resident's cultural background.

Cultural background significantly influences how individuals express and receive comfort, especially physical touch. Before offering comfort through touch, it is crucial to consider the resident's cultural norms and personal preferences. This ensures the gesture is perceived as supportive and respectful, rather than intrusive or inappropriate.

Question 46: A resident with dementia becomes agitated during evening hours. This behavior pattern is known as:

Perseveration
Catastrophic reaction
Sundowning (Correct answer)
Confabulation

Correct answer: Sundowning

Sundowning refers to increased confusion, agitation, and behavioral changes that occur in late afternoon or evening in residents with dementia.

Question 47: The resident's weight is obtained routinely as a way to check the resident's:

Nutrition and health (Correct answer)
Activity level
Growth and development
Adjustment to the facility

Correct answer: Nutrition and health

Routine weight monitoring is a vital part of assessing a resident's nutritional status and overall health. Significant weight changes, whether gain or loss, can indicate underlying health issues, nutritional deficiencies, fluid retention, or the effectiveness of medical treatments. It provides crucial data for the healthcare team to make informed decisions about care.

Question 48: Due to ethnic, racial, and cultural factors, which of the following groups is LESS likely to be diagnosed with diabetes?

Hispanics
African Americans
White Americans (Correct answer)
Native Americans

Correct answer: White Americans

Statistical data consistently shows that certain ethnic and racial groups, including Hispanics, Native Americans, and African Americans, have a significantly higher prevalence and incidence of diabetes compared to White Americans. These disparities are attributed to a complex interplay of genetic predispositions, socioeconomic factors, lifestyle, and access to healthcare. Therefore, White Americans are less likely to be diagnosed with diabetes among the options provided.

Question 49: A resident has an advance directive, specifically a living will. The STNA understands that this document primarily serves to:

Give the STNA permission to perform tasks outside their scope of practice.
List all the resident's medications and allergies.
Appoint a person to make financial decisions for the resident.
Specify the resident's wishes regarding medical treatment if they become unable to communicate. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Specify the resident's wishes regarding medical treatment if they become unable to communicate.

A living will is an advance directive that outlines a person's wishes for medical treatment in the event they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves. The Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) requires facilities to inform residents of their right to create advance directives.

Question 50: A resident with dementia repeatedly asks for their deceased mother. The nursing assistant should:

Ignore the question each time it is asked
Redirect the resident gently to a comforting activity or topic (Correct answer)
Tell the resident their mother is coming soon
Remind the resident firmly that their mother has died

Correct answer: Redirect the resident gently to a comforting activity or topic

Gentle redirection avoids causing repeated grief while still acknowledging the resident's emotional state, which is the most therapeutic approach for dementia care.

Question 51: As the nurse aide begins his/her assignment, which of the following should the nurse aide do first?

Collect linen supplies for the shift.
Start bathing a resident who has physical therapy in one hour.
Check all the nurse aide's assigned residents.
Assist a resident who has called for assistance to get off the toilet. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Assist a resident who has called for assistance to get off the toilet.

When starting an assignment, the nurse aide's priority should always be to address immediate resident needs, especially those related to safety, comfort, or elimination. A resident calling for assistance to get off the toilet indicates an urgent need that should be addressed promptly before routine tasks like collecting supplies or starting scheduled baths, ensuring the resident's dignity and comfort.

Question 52: Which intervention best promotes social well-being for a resident who is isolated and withdrawn?

Leaving the resident in their room to respect privacy
Discussing the resident's isolation with other residents
Inviting the resident to a small group activity (Correct answer)
Telling the resident they must socialize

Correct answer: Inviting the resident to a small group activity

Inviting the resident to a small group activity provides a low-pressure opportunity for social engagement, which supports emotional and social well-being.

Question 53: When a resident is expressing anger, the nurse aide should consider:

Listen closely to the resident's concerns. (Correct answer)
Remind the resident that everyone gets angry.
Correct the resident's misperceptions.
Ask the resident to speak in a kinder tone.

Correct answer: Listen closely to the resident's concerns.

When a resident is expressing anger, the most effective response is to listen actively and attentively to their concerns. This validates their feelings, shows respect, and helps the nurse aide understand the root cause of the anger. Understanding the underlying issue is the first step toward resolving the problem or de-escalating the situation.

Question 54: A resident with schizophrenia tells the nursing assistant that the television is sending them secret messages. The nursing assistant should:

Agree with the resident to avoid conflict
Acknowledge the resident's feelings without reinforcing the delusion (Correct answer)
Argue that the television cannot send messages
Ignore the resident completely

Correct answer: Acknowledge the resident's feelings without reinforcing the delusion

Acknowledging feelings without agreeing or arguing respects the resident and avoids reinforcing the delusion while maintaining a therapeutic relationship.

Question 55: What does HIPAA require nursing assistants to do when discussing a resident's condition?

Inform the resident's entire family to keep everyone updated
Discuss only with those directly involved in the resident's care (Correct answer)
Share information openly with all staff for coordinated care
Post updates in the staff lounge for shift communication

Correct answer: Discuss only with those directly involved in the resident's care

HIPAA's minimum necessary standard requires sharing health information only with those who need it to provide care.

Question 56: Before feeding a resident, what is the best reason to wash the resident's hands?

The resident needs to keep meal routines.
The resident may still touch his/her mouth or food. (Correct answer)
It reduces the risk of spreading airborne diseases.
It improves resident morale and appetite.

Correct answer: The resident may still touch his/her mouth or food.

Washing a resident's hands before a meal is a critical infection control measure. Even if the resident is being fed, they may still touch their mouth, face, or the food itself. Handwashing removes germs, preventing their transfer from the resident's hands to their mouth or food, thereby significantly reducing the risk of illness and infection.

Question 57: A resident gets dressed and comes out of his room wearing shoes that are from two different pairs. The nurse aide should:

Ask if the resident lost some of his shoes.
Remind the resident that the nurse aide can dress the resident.
Tease the resident by complimenting the resident's sense of style.
Ask if the resident realizes that the shoes do not match. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ask if the resident realizes that the shoes do not match.

The most respectful and appropriate response is to gently inquire if the resident is aware of the mismatch in their shoes. This approach maintains the resident's dignity, allows them to correct the error if they are capable, and provides an opportunity for the nurse aide to offer assistance without causing embarrassment or making the resident feel incompetent.

Question 58: What are protozoa?

1-celled organism that can cause an infection
Plant-like organisms
1-celled animals (Correct answer)
Things that grow in living cells

Correct answer: 1-celled animals

Protozoa are single-celled eukaryotic organisms that are classified as animal-like protists. They are microscopic and possess characteristics similar to animals, such as motility and heterotrophic nutrition. While some can cause infections, their fundamental classification is as one-celled animals, distinguishing them from bacteria (which are prokaryotes) or fungi (plant-like organisms).

Question 59: Which of the following statements is true about residents who are restrained?

They are not at risk of falling.
They are at a greater risk of developing pressure sores. (Correct answer)
Their posture and alignment are improved.
They are at lower risk of developing pneumonia.

Correct answer: They are at a greater risk of developing pressure sores.

Residents who are restrained are at a significantly higher risk of developing pressure sores. Restraints restrict movement, leading to prolonged pressure on specific body areas and impaired circulation. This lack of repositioning and reduced blood flow increases the likelihood of skin breakdown and the formation of pressure ulcers.

Question 60: When arranging a patient's room, you should do all of the following EXCEPT:

Administer medications (Correct answer)
Check lighting
Adjust the back and knee rests as directed
Check signal cords

Correct answer: Administer medications

Administering medications is a task that falls outside the scope of practice for a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA). This responsibility requires specialized training, assessment skills, and licensure held by registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). STNAs focus on direct patient care, comfort, and safety, which includes checking signal cords, adjusting bed positions, and ensuring adequate lighting, but not medication administration.

Question 61: A resident who recently lost a spouse is crying and says they do not want to talk. The best response is to:

Change the subject to distract them
Tell the resident to stay strong
Sit quietly with the resident and offer presence (Correct answer)
Leave immediately and check back later

Correct answer: Sit quietly with the resident and offer presence

Sitting quietly with a grieving resident provides comfort through presence without forcing conversation, which supports emotional well-being.

Question 62: A resident's family member demands to see their loved one's medical chart. What should the nursing assistant do?

Copy the chart and give them the copies
Provide the chart immediately since they are family
Direct them to the charge nurse or administrator (Correct answer)
Deny access since only residents may see charts

Correct answer: Direct them to the charge nurse or administrator

Medical record access requests from family must be handled by authorized staff who can verify consent and legal authority.

Question 63: When trying to communicate with a resident who speaks a different language than the nurse aide, the nurse aide should:

Use pictures and gestures (Correct answer)
Assume when the resident nods his/her head that the message is understood.
Face the resident and speak softly when talking.
Repeat words often if the resident does not understand.

Correct answer: Use pictures and gestures

When a language barrier exists, non-verbal communication methods like pictures, gestures, and demonstrations are essential tools. These methods can convey basic needs, instructions, and emotions more effectively than simply repeating words or speaking loudly. Using visual and physical cues helps bridge the communication gap and ensures better understanding.

Question 64: While flossing the client's teeth, which motion is incorrect?

With each hand, place the floss between the middle fingers.
Don't forget to floss the backs of the final teeth on the top, bottom, right, and left of the mouth.
Gently slide the floss between the teeth, up and down.
For each tooth, use a fresh piece of floss. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: For each tooth, use a fresh piece of floss.

It is not required to floss every tooth with a fresh piece of floss. Take an eighteen-inch length of floss out of the dispenser; this will cover every tooth. After flossing every other tooth, simply move on to a new section of floss. The other options are the proper flossing techniques.

Question 65: Social service needs of residents are best addressed when the nursing assistant:

Makes all social decisions for the resident
Arranges family meetings without nurse involvement
Observes and reports changes in social behavior to the care team (Correct answer)
Limits resident interactions to reduce emotional risk

Correct answer: Observes and reports changes in social behavior to the care team

Observing and reporting changes in social behavior ensures the interdisciplinary team can address social service needs collaboratively and appropriately.

Question 66: An agitated resident must be turned every two hours all night long. The first action of the nurse aide when waking up this resident is to:

Shout her name.
Turn on the light.
Touch her shoulder.
Speak quietly and calmly. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Speak quietly and calmly.

When waking an agitated resident, a calm and quiet approach is crucial to avoid startling or further distressing them. Speaking gently helps to orient the resident and reduces the likelihood of an escalated agitated response. This promotes a sense of safety and minimizes confusion.

Question 67: Which of the following is the nursing assistant's role in supporting the mental health of residents?

Prescribing medication for anxiety
Diagnosing mental health conditions
Conducting psychiatric evaluations
Providing a safe, supportive environment and reporting changes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Providing a safe, supportive environment and reporting changes

Nursing assistants support mental health by maintaining a safe, supportive environment and reporting any behavioral or mood changes to the nurse.

Question 68: Which action by the nursing assistant best supports a resident's spiritual and emotional well-being?

Respecting and facilitating the resident's own spiritual practices (Correct answer)
Sharing personal religious beliefs to comfort the resident
Inviting the resident to attend your religious services
Discouraging religious discussions to maintain professionalism

Correct answer: Respecting and facilitating the resident's own spiritual practices

Respecting and facilitating the resident's own spiritual practices honors their individuality and supports holistic well-being without imposing the nursing assistant's beliefs.

Question 69: Which of the following, if observed as a sudden change in the resident, is considered a possible warning sign of a stroke?

Dementia
Slurred speech (Correct answer)
Contractures
Irregular heartbeat

Correct answer: Slurred speech

Slurred speech (dysarthria) is a common and critical warning sign of a stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, which can impair the brain's ability to control speech muscles. Recognizing this sudden change is crucial for prompt medical intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes.

Question 70: When assisting a client to use the bedside commode, it is important to:

Place toilet tissue close by.
Leave the call light within reach.
Return to check on the client periodically.
All of the above. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All of the above.

When assisting a client with a bedside commode, ensuring their safety, comfort, and dignity is paramount. Leaving the call light within reach allows them to summon help, placing toilet tissue nearby provides for their hygiene needs, and checking periodically ensures their well-being and addresses any immediate needs. Therefore, all these actions are important.

Question 71: During morning care, a resident tells the STNA, "I don't want to take a bath today." Which of the following is the STNA's best response?

Tell the resident they have to bathe to stay clean and prevent infection.
Respect the resident's decision and document the refusal. (Correct answer)
Offer to come back later to see if the resident has changed their mind.
Inform the resident that their doctor has ordered a daily bath.

Correct answer: Respect the resident's decision and document the refusal.

Residents have the right to refuse care and make choices about their daily lives. The STNA must respect this right. The refusal should be documented according to facility policy, and the nurse should be informed. While offering to come back later is also a good approach, the primary action is to respect the initial refusal.

Question 72: An immobile patient is susceptible to all of the following alterations EXCEPT:

Respiratory infections
An increased appetite (Correct answer)
Bedsores
Blood clots

Correct answer: An increased appetite

Immobility typically leads to a decrease in metabolic rate and physical activity, which often results in a decreased appetite, not an increased one. Conversely, immobility significantly increases the risk for respiratory infections due to poor lung expansion, blood clots due to venous stasis, and bedsores due to prolonged pressure on the skin.

Question 73: Which approach is most effective when caring for a resident experiencing a panic attack?

Administer a PRN medication without nurse authorization
Leave the room and return when the resident calms down
Restrain the resident to prevent injury
Stay with the resident, speak calmly, and encourage slow breathing (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Stay with the resident, speak calmly, and encourage slow breathing

Staying with the resident, speaking calmly, and guiding slow breathing helps reduce the intensity of a panic attack by providing reassurance and regulation techniques.

Question 74: Reality orientation is used primarily to help residents with:

Chronic pain management
Medication adherence
Confusion about person, place, and time (Correct answer)
Physical rehabilitation after a stroke

Correct answer: Confusion about person, place, and time

Reality orientation uses repetitive cues about person, place, and time to help confused residents maintain or regain orientation to their environment.

Question 75: A resident tells you they want to file a complaint about their care. What is the nursing assistant's responsibility?

Resolve the complaint privately without involving management
Tell the resident complaints must go through family only
Discourage the complaint to avoid trouble for the facility
Inform the resident of their right to contact the ombudsman (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Inform the resident of their right to contact the ombudsman

Residents have the right to voice grievances and must be informed they can contact the long-term care ombudsman.

Question 76: A resident refuses to take their scheduled medication. What should the nursing assistant do?

Document the refusal without telling anyone
Convince the resident by hiding it in food
Respect the refusal and report it to the nurse (Correct answer)
Administer it anyway to protect the resident's health

Correct answer: Respect the refusal and report it to the nurse

Residents have the right to refuse treatment; the nursing assistant must honor this and report it to the nurse for follow-up.

Question 77: Which is an example of psychological or emotional abuse?

Gently correcting a resident who is confused about the date
Raising one's voice briefly in a noisy environment
Using simple language when explaining a procedure
Threatening to withhold meals if the resident does not cooperate (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Threatening to withhold meals if the resident does not cooperate

Threatening to withhold basic needs is emotional abuse and is strictly prohibited.

Question 78: The resident's three top priorities when taking a bath are:

Sanitation, warmth, and safety.
Security, comfort, and slumber.
Privacy, security, and safety. (Correct answer)
Warmth, seclusion, and leisure.

Correct answer: Privacy, security, and safety.

When a resident is taking a bed bath, their top priorities are safety, security, and privacy.

Question 79: Encouraging a client to take part in activities for daily living (ADLS) such as bathing, combing hair, and feeding is:

The family's responsibility.
Done only when time permits.
A violation of client rights.
Necessary for rehabilitation. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Necessary for rehabilitation.

Encouraging clients to participate in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is fundamental for their rehabilitation and overall well-being. It promotes independence, helps maintain existing physical and cognitive abilities, and can improve self-esteem. Active participation in self-care tasks is a key component of restorative care.

Question 80: Which behavior is a common sign of depression in an elderly resident?

Increased appetite and energy
Elevated mood and talkativeness
Withdrawal from activities and social interaction (Correct answer)
Increased interest in hobbies

Correct answer: Withdrawal from activities and social interaction

Withdrawal from activities and social interaction is a hallmark sign of depression, particularly in elderly residents.

State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Exam

The STNA exam certifies individuals to work as nursing assistants, demonstrating competency in providing basic care under the supervision of a licensed nurse.

Questions

90 min

Time Limit

75%

To Pass

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These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy

codes.ohio.gov — Passing score, test delivery, eligibility, retake policy, renewal · verified Oct 2026
hdmaster.com — Time limit, exam format, score release, fees, retake fee, exam information · verified Oct 2026