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

Question 1: Which of the following, if observed as a sudden change in the resident, is considered a possible warning sign of a stroke?

Irregular heartbeat
Contractures
Dementia
Slurred speech (Correct answer)

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 2: What destroys microbes?

Heat and light (Correct answer)
Air
Darkness
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 3: Which of the following illnesses doesn't call for safety precautions when flying?

MRSA. (Correct answer)
Measles.
Chickenpox.
TB

Correct answer: MRSA.

The disease MRSA is spread by skin-to-skin contact. Airborne or droplet precautions are not necessary.

Question 4: When a person is admitted to the nursing home, the nurse aide should expect that the resident will:

Require a lot of assistance with personal care.
Experience a sense of loss related to the life change. (Correct answer)
Have problems related to incontinence.
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 5: A resident's religious dietary restrictions are not being followed by the kitchen. What should the CNA do?

Tell the resident to accept what is served
Bring in food from outside without telling anyone
Document it in the chart and wait for the next care conference
Report the issue to the nurse or dietary supervisor immediately (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Report the issue to the nurse or dietary supervisor immediately

Residents have the right to have their religious and cultural preferences honored, and the appropriate supervisor must be notified promptly.

Question 6: Which behavior is a common sign of depression in an elderly resident?

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

Correct answer: Withdrawal from activities and social interaction

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

Question 7: How can a nursing assistant avoid infection the most effectively?

Before and after providing resident care, give yourself an antibacterial hand massage.
Regular washing of hands. (Correct answer)
Gloves should be worn whenever handling bodily fluids.
When providing care for residents, use conventional precautions.

Correct answer: Regular washing of hands.

Without a question, the greatest strategy to prevent illness is to wash your hands frequently. The other actions are encouraging.

Question 8: Which action by the nursing assistant best supports a resident's spiritual and emotional well-being?

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

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 9: In order for a microbe to survive it must have somewhere to live. What is the term used to describe the area where the microbe lives?

Reservoir (Correct answer)
Method of transmission
Source
Portal of entry

Correct answer: Reservoir

In the chain of infection, a 'reservoir' is defined as the natural environment or habitat where a pathogen or microbe normally lives and multiplies. This can be a human, an animal, soil, water, or inanimate objects. For a microbe to survive and potentially cause an infection, it must have a suitable reservoir to reside in and reproduce.

Question 10: 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
Involve the family to override the resident's decision
Respect the refusal, offer alternatives, and document and report (Correct answer)

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 11: A resident who is incontinent of urine has an increased risk of developing:

Urinary tract infection (Correct answer)
Dementia
Dehydration
Pressure sores

Correct answer: Urinary tract infection

Residents who are incontinent of urine are at a significantly increased risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). This is because urine can remain in contact with the skin, creating a moist environment where bacteria can multiply and potentially ascend into the urethra, leading to infection. Proper hygiene and frequent changes are crucial to mitigate this risk.

Question 12: A resident with dementia wanders toward an exit door. What is the safest immediate action?

Gently redirect the resident away from the exit and notify the nurse (Correct answer)
Physically restrain the resident to stop the wandering
Lock the resident in their room to prevent elopement
Ignore it since the door is locked anyway

Correct answer: Gently redirect the resident away from the exit and notify the nurse

Gentle redirection protects safety while preserving dignity, and the nurse must be notified to address the wandering risk.

Question 13: Of these, MRSA is an example of which?

A bacterial strain that is resistant to antibiotics and is challenging to treat. (Correct answer)
A collection of rules for activities intended to protect citizens.
A type of bacterium that responds well to antibiotic treatment.
A mental note to help recall what to do in the event of a facility fire.

Correct answer: A bacterial strain that is resistant to antibiotics and is challenging to treat.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, is extremely resistant to the majority of antibiotic therapies.

Question 14: A nurse aide finds a resident looking in the refrigerator at the nurses' station at 5 a.m. The resident, who is confused, explains he needs breakfast before he leaves for work. The best response by the nurse aide is to:

Tell him that residents are not allowed in the nurses' station.
Help the resident back to his room and into bed.
Remind him that he is retired from his job and in a nursing home.
Ask the resident about his job and if he is hungry. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ask the resident about his job and if he is hungry.

When a confused resident expresses a desire related to a past life, such as going to work, the best approach is to engage them in their reality rather than correcting or reorienting them. Asking about their job and if they are hungry validates their feelings and provides an opportunity to gently redirect them. This technique, known as validation therapy, helps reduce agitation and fosters trust.

Question 15: A customer is wearing a face mask for oxygen therapy. For this client, which of the following is contraindicated?

consuming his lunch.
conversing with guests.
Cotton bedding is used.
shave using an electric blade. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: shave using an electric blade.

Safety precautions should be put in place for a client receiving oxygen therapy to avoid explosions. It is not permitted to use electric hair dryers or razors when the oxygen is operating. A client's hair can produce an electrical spark when combed, which has the potential to cause an explosion. If the patient wants to eat and interact with guests, the face mask can be taken off. It is also advised to use cotton bed linens to reduce static electricity.

Question 16: When assisting a client with eating, one of the FIRST things the nurse aide should do is:

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

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 17: A patient has a new cast on his right arm. While caring for him, it is important to FIRST observe for:

Color and hardness of the cast.
Pulse above the cast.
Signs of crumbling at the cast end.
Warmth and color of fingers. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Warmth and color of fingers.

When a patient has a new cast, it is crucial to monitor for signs of impaired circulation, which can occur if swelling develops under the cast. Observing the warmth and color of the fingers (or toes, if a leg cast) distal to the cast provides immediate indicators of blood flow. Coldness, pallor, or a bluish discoloration (cyanosis) would signal a circulatory compromise requiring urgent attention.

Question 18: A nurse gets a doctor's permission to use a jacket restraint on a patient, and she assigns a nursing assistant to help with the restraint. Which of the following observations suggests that the nursing assistant used the restraint inappropriately?

securely fastened restraint straps to the side rails. (Correct answer)
The jacket restraint should be fastened so that the client's skin and the restraint can be easily touched by two fingers.
belts used to restrain jackets that release tension when pressure is applied.
a safety knot in the straps used for restraint.

Correct answer: securely fastened restraint straps to the side rails.

To prevent unintentional harm in the unlikely event that the side rail is unfastened, the restraint straps should always be fastened to the bed frame rather than the side rail itself. Applying a constraint should be done with a half-bow or safety knot since they are easy to remove in an emergency and do not tighten when force is placed against them. One or two fingers should be able to readily slip between the client's skin and the jacket constraint once it is fastened.

Question 19: You can promote sleep for your patients by all of the following actions EXCEPT:

Provide the patient with positioning devices to enhance his or her comfort
Provide emotional support when patients are experiencing pain
Change the patient’s routine on a daily basis (Correct answer)
Decrease noise and confusion in the patient’s environment

Correct answer: Change the patient’s routine on a daily basis

Changing a patient's routine on a daily basis disrupts their natural sleep-wake cycle and can make it harder for them to fall asleep. To promote sleep, STNAs should aim to establish a consistent daily routine, including regular bedtimes and wake times. A predictable environment and routine help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which is essential for restful sleep.

Question 20: 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:

Verify this order with the nurse.
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.

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

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

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

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

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 23: Which stage of grief involves a resident bargaining with God to reverse their diagnosis?

Anger
Acceptance
Bargaining (Correct answer)
Denial

Correct answer: Bargaining

In the bargaining stage of Kübler-Ross's grief model, individuals attempt to negotiate or make deals in hopes of changing their situation.

Question 24: 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?

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

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 25: A resident has diabetes. Which of the following is a common sign of low blood sugar?

Vomiting
Fever
Thirst
Shakiness (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Shakiness

Shakiness is a common and important sign of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in individuals with diabetes. Other symptoms can include dizziness, sweating, hunger, confusion, and weakness, as the body reacts to the lack of glucose needed for energy. Recognizing these signs promptly is crucial for intervention.

Question 26: How should you record a patient’s output?

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

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 27: A person drinks 1 cup of apple juice with their breakfast. How many milliliters should be recorded?

180 mL
360 mL
120 mL
240 mL (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 240 mL

In healthcare, a standard conversion for fluid measurement is that 1 cup is approximately equivalent to 8 fluid ounces. Since 1 fluid ounce is roughly 30 milliliters (mL), multiplying 8 ounces by 30 mL/ounce yields 240 mL. Therefore, 1 cup of apple juice should be recorded as 240 mL for accurate intake tracking.

Question 28: How long should the nursing assistant clean hands fully and completely after adequately washing them?

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

Correct answer: Twenty seconds.

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

Question 29: The resident's three top priorities when taking a bath are:

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

Correct answer: Privacy, security, and safety.

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

Question 30: A slipknot is used when securing a restraint so that:

The restraint can be removed quickly when needed. (Correct answer)
It can be easily observed whether the restraint is applied correctly.
The restraint cannot be removed by the resident.
Body alignment is maintained while wearing the restraint.

Correct answer: The restraint can be removed quickly when needed.

A slipknot is used when securing a restraint so that it can be removed quickly and easily in an emergency. This allows for rapid release if the resident needs immediate medical attention, if the restraint is causing distress, or if there's a safety concern. The ability to quickly remove the restraint is crucial for resident safety and well-being.

Question 31: Which of the following is true about caring for a resident who wears a hearing aid?

Remove the hearing aid before showering. (Correct answer)
Replace batteries weekly.
Clean the ear mold and battery case with water daily, drying completely.
Apply hairspray after the hearing aid is in place.

Correct answer: Remove the hearing aid before showering.

Hearing aids are sensitive electronic devices that can be severely damaged by water. Removing them before showering, bathing, or swimming is essential to protect them from moisture. This preventative measure ensures the device's proper function and longevity, allowing the resident to continue hearing effectively.

Question 32: 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:

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

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

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

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 34: When communicating with a resident who has severe anxiety, the nursing assistant should:

Discuss the cause of their anxiety in detail
Speak quickly to complete tasks efficiently
Avoid making eye contact to reduce pressure
Remain calm and use a slow, reassuring tone (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Remain calm and use a slow, reassuring tone

A calm, slow, and reassuring tone helps reduce anxiety by providing the resident with a sense of safety and stability.

Question 35: When should you wash your hands?

When the charge nurse tells you to
At least twice daily
Before and after contact with a patient (Correct answer)
When you notice they look or feel dirty

Correct answer: Before and after contact with a patient

Handwashing is a cornerstone of infection control and must be performed before and after every contact with a patient. This practice prevents the transmission of microorganisms between patients, from the environment to the patient, and from the patient to the healthcare worker. It is a critical step in maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for everyone.

Question 36: Which of the following is a resident's right under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987?

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

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 37: Which scenario describes neglect by a nursing assistant?

Failing to reposition a resident who cannot move independently (Correct answer)
Reporting a resident's complaint of pain to the nurse
Notifying the nurse before leaving the unit for a break
Offering a resident a choice of beverages with meals

Correct answer: Failing to reposition a resident who cannot move independently

Failing to turn and reposition an immobile resident is neglect that can result in pressure injuries and other harm.

Question 38: 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 realizes that the shoes do not match. (Correct answer)
Ask if the resident lost some of his shoes.
Tease the resident by complimenting the resident's sense of style.
Remind the resident that the nurse aide can dress the resident.

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 39: Reality orientation is used primarily to help residents with:

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

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 40: 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
Physically restrain the resident immediately
Calmly redirect the resident and notify the nurse (Correct answer)
Allow the resident to leave to prevent escalation

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 41: What does 'least restrictive environment' mean in long-term care?

Residents must share rooms to maximize social interaction
Staff must never use any safety equipment
Providing care with the fewest limitations on the resident's freedom (Correct answer)
Residents are not supervised during activities

Correct answer: Providing care with the fewest limitations on the resident's freedom

The least restrictive environment principle means maximizing resident freedom and autonomy while still providing necessary safe care.

Question 42: A resident often carries a doll with her, treating it like her baby. One day, she wanders around, crying, and she can't find her baby. The nurse aide should:

Ask the resident where she last had her doll.
Let the other staff know the resident is very confused and should be watched closely.
Offer comfort to the resident and help her look for her baby. (Correct answer)
Ask the activity department if they have any other dolls.

Correct answer: Offer comfort to the resident and help her look for her baby.

When a confused resident is distressed about a lost item, especially one they perceive as important, the best approach is validation and comfort. Offering comfort and helping them look for their "baby" acknowledges their feelings and respects their reality, even if it's a doll. This approach provides emotional support and can help de-escalate their distress.

Question 43: Which action protects a resident's right to receive information about their care?

Explaining procedures to the resident before performing them (Correct answer)
Discussing the care plan only with family at monthly meetings
Providing written care summaries to the charge nurse only
Posting care information on the hallway bulletin board

Correct answer: Explaining procedures to the resident before performing them

Residents have the right to be informed about all aspects of their care before and during procedures.

Question 44: 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 45: While giving an unconscious patient a bath, it is important to:

Call the physical therapist to exercise the patient afterward.
Let the charge nurse exercise the patient's joints.
Perform a passive range of motion to all joints. (Correct answer)
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 46: Which approach is most effective when caring for a resident experiencing a panic attack?

Leave the room and return when the resident calms down
Restrain the resident to prevent injury
Administer a PRN medication without nurse authorization
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 47: Which statement by a resident requires immediate reporting to the nurse?

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

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 48: 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:

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

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 49: During hand washing, the nurse aide accidentally touched the inside of the sink while rinsing the soap off. The NEXT action is to:

Dry the hands and turn off the faucet with the paper towel.
Repeat the wash from the beginning. (Correct answer)
None of the above
Allow the water to run over the hands for two minutes.

Correct answer: Repeat the wash from the beginning.

Touching a contaminated surface like the inside of the sink after washing but before drying re-contaminates the hands. To ensure proper infection control and maintain hand hygiene, the entire handwashing procedure must be repeated from the beginning. This eliminates any pathogens picked up from the sink.

Question 50: An STNA is assisting a resident with bathing. The resident's family member, who is visiting, asks the STNA for the resident's recent blood pressure readings. How should the STNA respond?

Leave the resident's medical chart at the bedside for the family to review.
Ask the resident in front of the family member if it's okay to share the information.
Provide the blood pressure readings since it is a direct family member asking.
Politely state that they cannot share that information and direct the family member to the charge nurse. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Politely state that they cannot share that information and direct the family member to the charge nurse.

Under HIPAA, an STNA cannot share a resident's protected health information (PHI) without the resident's consent. The proper response is to protect the resident's privacy and refer the family member to the licensed nurse who can follow the facility's protocol for releasing information.

Question 51: When cleaning a client's dentures at the sink the reason that either line the emesis basin with a paper towel or fill the sink with water is to:

Hide the dentures from view.
Prevent contamination of the dentures.
Guard against breaking the dentures. (Correct answer)
Protect the basin from scratches.

Correct answer: Guard against breaking the dentures.

Dentures are fragile and can easily break if dropped onto a hard surface. Lining the emesis basin with a paper towel or filling the sink with water creates a cushioned barrier. This precaution helps absorb impact and prevents the dentures from cracking or shattering if they are accidentally dropped during cleaning.

Question 52: A resident is found on the floor. After calling for help, what is the CNA's next priority?

Document the incident and continue with other duties
Stay with the resident and keep them calm until the nurse arrives (Correct answer)
Help the resident stand up immediately
Move the resident to the bed to prevent further injury

Correct answer: Stay with the resident and keep them calm until the nurse arrives

The CNA must stay with the resident to monitor and provide reassurance while preventing further injury until a nurse assesses the situation.

Question 53: 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)
Face the resident and speak softly when talking.
Assume when the resident nods his/her head that the message is understood.
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 54: Staff members ask a puzzled client to stay on bedrest, but the client still tries to get out of bed. The nursing assistant is aware that the nurse will probably submit an application:

wrist shackles.
four limitations on points.
an alarm for bed. (Correct answer)
a constraint on the vest.

Correct answer: an alarm for bed.

The least intrusive option that will nevertheless keep the customer secure is the bed alarm. Any kind of constraint needs a doctor's prescription.

Question 55: Which of the following statements is true about range of motion (ROM) exercise?

Are often performed during ADLs such as bathing or dressing (Correct answer)
Require at least ten repetitions of each exercise
Help prevent strokes and paralysis
Done just once a day

Correct answer: Are often performed during ADLs such as bathing or dressing

Range of Motion (ROM) exercises are essential for maintaining joint flexibility and preventing stiffness or contractures. Incorporating these exercises into daily activities like bathing, dressing, and grooming makes them a natural and consistent part of a resident's routine, promoting mobility and independence. They should be performed regularly, not just once a day, and the number of repetitions is guided by the care plan.

Question 56: The nursing assistant is aware that all of the following are required when helping the patient go from their bed to a chair, with the exception of:

Help the resident on with the non-slip shoes and robe.
On the resident's strong side, position the chair.
Urge the resident to turn around on their own with little help. (Correct answer)
Lock the wheels after lowering the bed to its lowest position.

Correct answer: Urge the resident to turn around on their own with little help.

To avoid falls, residents should be completely supported and watched over during turning.

Question 57: A resident is on a bladder retraining program. The nurse aide should expect the resident to:

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

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

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

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

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

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 60: When lifting a heavy object, the correct method would be to bend at the:

Waist, rounding your shoulders.
Knees, keeping your back straight. (Correct answer)
Knees and waist.
Waist, keeping your legs straight.

Correct answer: Knees, keeping your back straight.

When lifting heavy objects, proper body mechanics are crucial to prevent injury. Bending at the knees and keeping the back straight allows the strong leg muscles to bear the weight, rather than straining the weaker back muscles. This technique minimizes stress on the spine and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

Question 61: When a resident is combative and tries to hit the nurse aide, it is important for the nurse aide to:

Explain that if the resident is not calm a restraint may be applied.
Show the resident that the nurse aide is in control.
Call for help to make sure there are witnesses.
Step back to protect yourself from harm while speaking in a calm manner. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Step back to protect yourself from harm while speaking in a calm manner.

When a resident is combative and attempts to hit, the nurse aide's first priority is to ensure their own safety and de-escalate the situation. Stepping back creates a safe distance, while speaking calmly can help reduce the resident's agitation. This approach prioritizes safety and attempts to calm the resident without escalating the confrontation.

Question 62: The nursing assistant should verify the water's temperature before getting a client ready for a hot Sitz bath. It is desirable for the water to be at:

from 105°F to 120°F
from 95°F to 110°F (Correct answer)
from 65°F to 80°F
from 80°F to 93°F

Correct answer: from 95°F to 110°F

For a hot Sitz bath, the water should be between 95°F and 110°F in temperature. A client exposed to too-hot or too-cold water may burn, and their muscles will contract instead than relax. In addition to relieving tension and easing muscular spasms, a hot Sitz bath can soften exudates, speed up the healing process (especially after perianal surgery), lessen congestion, and offer comfort in the perineal area.

Question 63: When moving a resident up in bed who is able to move with assistance, the nurse aide should:

Position them with their knees straight and bent at the waist.
Bend the resident's knees and ask the resident to push with his/her feet. (Correct answer)
Pull the resident up holding onto one side of the drawsheet at a time.
Use a gait or transfer belt to assist with the repositioning.

Correct answer: Bend the resident's knees and ask the resident to push with his/her feet.

When moving a resident up in bed who can assist, bending their knees and asking them to push with their feet utilizes their own strength and helps them actively participate in the movement. This technique reduces the physical strain on the nurse aide, promotes resident independence, and is a key principle of proper body mechanics and safe patient handling.

Question 64: Which of the following statements is true about residents who are restrained?

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

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 65: When changing a patient who is incontinent, what safety gear should be worn?

N-95 face covering.
gown and gloves. (Correct answer)
robe and mask.
A mask, a gown, and gloves.

Correct answer: gown and gloves.

As a proper contact precaution, the nursing assistant should wear a gown and gloves at most.

Question 66: A resident tells you they want to file a complaint about their care. What is the nursing assistant's responsibility?

Inform the resident of their right to contact the ombudsman (Correct answer)
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

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

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

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 of the following statements BEST describes abduction?

When you move the extremity towards the body
When you bend the extremity
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 69: When giving mouth care to an unconscious patient, the safest position to prevent aspiration is:

With the head turned to the side. (Correct answer)
In semi-Fowler's position.
On her or his back.
In the supine position

Correct answer: With the head turned to the side.

When providing mouth care to an unconscious patient, the primary concern is preventing aspiration, where fluids or debris enter the lungs. Turning the patient's head to the side allows gravity to facilitate the drainage of any liquids or secretions out of the mouth, significantly reducing the risk of them being inhaled into the airway and causing complications like pneumonia.

Question 70: You are told to put a client in Fowler's position. Before changing the position of the client's bed you should:

Check with the client's family
Explain the procedure to the client (Correct answer)
Remake the bed
Open the window

Correct answer: Explain the procedure to the client

Before performing any procedure, including changing a client's position, it is a fundamental principle of patient care to explain what you are going to do. This practice respects the client's autonomy, helps them understand the procedure, reduces anxiety, and encourages cooperation. It ensures informed consent and builds trust between the caregiver and the client.

Question 71: When using personal protective equipment (PPE) the nurse aide correctly follows standard precautions when wearing:

Gloves while ambulating a resident.
Double gloves when providing perineal care to a resident.
A mask and gown while feeding a resident who coughs.
Gloves to remove a resident's bedpan. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Gloves to remove a resident's bedpan.

Standard precautions require wearing gloves whenever there is a potential for contact with body fluids, secretions, excretions, or contaminated items. Removing a resident's bedpan involves handling human waste, which necessitates the use of gloves to prevent the transmission of microorganisms and maintain proper infection control.

Question 72: Which of the following is considered a normal age-related change?

Contractures
Dementia
Bladder holding less urine (Correct answer)
Wheezing when breathing

Correct answer: Bladder holding less urine

As people age, the bladder muscle can become less elastic and its capacity to hold urine may decrease, leading to more frequent urination. This is a common physiological change associated with the aging process. Unlike dementia, contractures, or wheezing, which are typically signs of disease or specific conditions, a reduced bladder capacity is often a normal age-related alteration.

Question 73: Which of the following is considered a physical restraint requiring physician order?

A call light placed within resident reach
A non-skid mat placed under the resident's feet
A raised toilet seat used for transfers
A full side rail raised on both sides of the bed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A full side rail raised on both sides of the bed

Full bilateral side rails are classified as restraints because they prevent the resident from freely exiting the bed.

Question 74: A resident frequently paces the hallways and appears restless. The nursing assistant should:

Tell the resident to return to their room immediately
Observe the behavior, ensure safety, and report to the nurse (Correct answer)
Restrain the resident to prevent falls
Ignore the behavior as long as no one complains

Correct answer: Observe the behavior, ensure safety, and report to the nurse

Observing, ensuring safety, and reporting allows the nurse to assess whether the restlessness is related to a mental health issue, pain, medication, or another cause.

Question 75: An STNA observes a coworker yelling at and insulting a resident who is confused. This action constitutes which type of abuse?

Psychological (emotional) abuse (Correct answer)
Financial abuse
Physical abuse
Involuntary seclusion

Correct answer: Psychological (emotional) abuse

Yelling, insulting, threatening, or intimidating a resident are all forms of psychological or emotional abuse. It causes emotional pain and distress.

Question 76: A resident who was previously social now stays in their room and refuses meals. This change most likely indicates:

A possible psychological or physical health decline requiring assessment (Correct answer)
Dissatisfaction with roommate assignment
Normal aging behavior
A preference for alone time

Correct answer: A possible psychological or physical health decline requiring assessment

A sudden change in social behavior and refusal of meals can indicate depression, illness, or other health changes that require professional assessment.

Question 77: Gloves should be worn for which of the following procedures?

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

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 78: Which of the following options is FALSE in regards to feeding a patient?

Record the amount of food that the patient consumed using a percentage
Feed the patient while they are in a sitting position
Allow the patient time to swallow before offering another bite
Use a fork to feed the patient (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use a fork to feed the patient

Using a fork to feed a patient is generally considered unsafe, especially for those with swallowing difficulties or impaired motor skills. Forks can be sharp and pose a risk of injury to the mouth or throat, or increase the risk of choking. STNAs should typically use a spoon for feeding to ensure patient safety and better control of food portions.

Question 79: A resident's room is being searched by staff looking for a missing item. What right may be at risk?

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

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

Have visual problems that require special glasses.
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.

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.

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%

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