CNA Exam Review Flashcards

A comprehensive collection of flashcards based on key concepts from CNA lecture notes to aid in exam preparation.

What should you do before touching a resident?

Ask for consent, explain what you’ll do, wait for their response, and respect refusals or body language.

Where is the best place to report confidential information under HIPAA?

In a private setting, such as a nurse’s station or charting room—never in public areas.

Why is timely documentation important?

It ensures accurate care, protects legally, and helps the care team communicate.

What should you check if a hearing aid isn’t working?

Make sure it’s on, has a working battery, and is clean. Report issues if it still doesn’t work.

What should you do if a patient is hiding or lying about being in pain?

Be supportive, try to build trust, ask gentle questions, and report signs to the nurse.

What should you do if a call light is on but the resident is not assigned to you?

Answer it anyway. All residents deserve help.

What should you do if you notice a change in a resident’s condition?

Stay with the resident if needed and immediately report the change to the nurse.

What is an example of subjective information in charting?

“Resident says they feel cold.”

What is an example of objective information in charting?

“Resident’s temperature is 99.8°F.”

How should you chart when a resident is found on the floor?

Write 'Resident found on floor' instead of 'Resident fell.'

What is an example of indirect contact in infection control?

Touching contaminated linens and then touching another resident.

What are examples of standard precautions?

Hand hygiene, gloves, PPE, disinfecting surfaces, and proper sharps disposal.

What is the chain of infection?

Infectious agent → Reservoir → Exit → Transmission → Entry → Susceptible host.

What are the steps for collecting a specimen in isolation?

1) Wash hands and gather supplies 2) Don PPE 3) Label container before entering 4) Collect specimen 5) Seal in biohazard bag 6) Doff PPE properly 7) Wash hands again 8) Deliver to lab.

What should someone with choking risk eat and drink?

Soft, mashed, or pureed foods and thickened fluids. Avoid dry or sticky foods.

What is the proper way for CNAs to lift boxes or equipment?

Stand close, feet apart, bend at knees, and lift with legs—not your back.

What are the first steps in an emergency?

Assess the situation and the resident, stay calm, call for help, and notify the nurse.

What is holistic care?

Caring for the whole person—physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.

How can you show empathy to a stroke (CVA) patient?

Speak slowly, give time to respond, listen patiently, and be supportive.

Why are older adults more at risk for UTIs?

Bladder muscles weaken with age, causing incomplete emptying and higher infection risk.

How can pressure sores be prevented?

Reposition every 2 hours, keep skin clean and dry, and use pillows to reduce pressure.

What should you do if a resident is dizzy at the edge of the bed for over a minute?

Lay them back down and notify the nurse—do not continue the activity.

How do you assist with ambulation?

Use a gait belt if needed, support the weaker side, and walk slowly.

How do you weigh a bedbound resident?

Use a bed scale or lift with scale according to facility policy.

What should be reported about a new resident?

Orientation, hygiene, pain, skin, appetite, mood, and how they interact.

What should be charted when a resident is admitted?

Time of arrival, belongings, vital signs, condition, complaints, and who came with them.

Why should you introduce a transferred resident to new staff?

It helps reduce anxiety and helps them adjust to their new environment.

What are normal aging symptoms of the nervous system?

Slower reaction time, memory loss, poor coordination, and balance issues.

How does aging affect the skin?

Skin becomes thinner and fragile, bruises easily. Keep it clean and moisturized.

What causes insomnia in residents, and how can you help?

Anxiety, meds, or environment. Reduce noise, use calming routines, and dim lights.

Where do clean linens go during bed making?

On a clean surface like a chair or overbed table—never on the floor.

What does it mean to be conscious and aware as a CNA?

Observing behavior, mood, and physical changes. Report anything unusual.

What are the steps to proper handwashing?

Wet hands → Apply soap → Scrub 20 sec → Rinse → Dry → Turn off faucet with paper towel.

When can you mention resident info over the phone?

Only to approved people, after verifying identity. Follow HIPAA rules.

How do you make correct and accurate observations?

Use your senses and document only what you see, hear, smell, or feel—no guessing.