CNA Terms

Aphasia

a brain injury that impairs the expression and understanding of language. The injury may also affect reading and writing.

Neglect

When the resident is ignored and doesn’t get proper care from the facility, its employees or service providers. the lack of proper care causes physical harm, pain, or mental anguish.

Cognitive

The ability to think, reason, make decisions, and have memory.

Dignity 

Maintain and improve the resident’s self-esteem and self-worth.

Care plan

A written outline that identifies a resident’s unique needs includes how health workers will assist the resident in meeting those needs.

Cyanosis

Blue or gray color to the lips due to not enough oxygen in the blood.

Infection Control

Practices which help to prevent the development and spread of disease.

Bradycardia

Pulse rate under 60 beats per minute (bpm)

Dyspnea

Difficulty breathing

Hypotension

Low blood pressure, lower than 90/60

Hypoxia

Lack of oxygen in the body tissues.

Respirations

The process of breathing in and out.

Pressure Ulcer/Injury

An open place in the skin that comes from lying in one position too long.

Abduction

Movement away from the body.

Extension

To straighten.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing

Constipation

When a person has difficulty having a BM.

Fecal Impaction

Hard, dry stool that is stuck in the intestine or rectum. 

Incontinence

Unable to control urine or stool. 

Void

To urinate. To pass urine.