Key Medical Terms for CNA Exam

A collection of key medical terms and definitions that are crucial for the CNA exam and practical application in a healthcare setting.

ADLs

Activities of daily living, such as dressing, washing, and feeding.

Ambulate

To help a resident walk.

Edema

Swelling.

Intake and Output (INO)

Refers to what you are drinking and swallowing (intake) and output, such as blood pressure and pain levels.

PRN

Abbreviation for per diem, meaning as needed.

Sepsis

Refers to clean techniques.

Fowler's

Sitting in a 45 to 90 degree angle.

Tachycardia

Fast heart rate.

Bradycardia

Slow heart rate.

Cyanosis

Blue coloring due to low oxygen.

Incontinence

Loss of control of bowel or bladder.

Aspiration

Food or liquid has entered the lungs, causing coughing.

Contracture

Tightening of a muscle.

Sundowning

Increased confusion in the evening hours.

Q two

Every two hours.

B N

Bowel movement.

Transfer

Moving someone, such as from a bed to a chair.

Baseline

A resident's normal condition, including vital signs.

Care Plan

A plan for the care of a patient.

O2 Sat

Oxygen saturation, typically measured with a pulse oximeter.

WDL

With defined limits, or normal.

Hoyer Lift

A mechanical device used for transferring patients.

PPE

Personal protective equipment, including gloves, masks, and gowns.

Isolation Precautions

Special steps taken for contagious residents.

Skin Breakdown

Abnormal skin conditions that can lead to pressure wounds.

One on One Observation

Staying with a resident at all times.

NPO

Nothing by mouth.

PO

By mouth.

QHS

At bedtime.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing.

Dyspnea

Difficulty breathing.

Hemiplegic

Paralyzed on one side of the body.

Aphasia

Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.

UA

Urine analysis.

COPD

Chronic lung disease common in long-term care.

CHF

Congestive heart failure.

UTI

Urinary tract infection.

OOB

Out of bed.

DNR

Do not resuscitate.