CNA Skill – Applies One Knee-High Elastic Stocking

A CNA should always be mindful of the patient’s dignity and comfort. One way to do so is by evenly distributing pressure on their legs with a knee-high elastic stocking. The article explains how this can apply one knee-high elastic stocking as a CNA and other helpful tips for caring for your patients in general.

Here is a video demonstration of how to apply one knee-high elastic stocking.

Applies One Knee-High Elastic Stocking

The process for applying one knee-high elastic stocking to a patient during the CNA skills exam is as follows:

  1. First, You will need to wash your hands with soap and water before you start applying the stockings.
  2. Make sure that the stocking you have is of the right size for your patient. Make a comparison between their height and weight to make sure they will fit them well without cutting off circulation.
  3. Once you verify that the person has the right-sized stockings, they will need to be in a supine position before applying them. Start by gathering all of their fabric and slowly sliding it up onto their feet – without wrinkling or bunching any of it along the way!
  4. Carefully roll the stocking up their leg until it is above your patient’s knee. Ensure there are no wrinkles left on the stocking as you finish this step, and ensure that the heels and toes are in the proper location for a comfortable fit.
  5. After you’ve made certain that the anti-embolism stockings have been correctly applied, it’s time to help your patient find a comfortable position.
  6. You’ll want to wash your hands again after you’re through with this procedure.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips on Appling one knee-high elastic stocking.

  • Patients wearing anti-embolism stockings should be monitored to ensure they are receiving a proper circulation. Elastic bandages also have the same effect and can cause a lack of blood flow if not properly fitted.
  • Visit every now and then to ensure that your patient’s toes (or fingers if bandages are on the arms) do not show any symptoms of receiving a decreased blood flow. If you notice anything unusual, talk with their nurse immediately as numbness or tingling could mean they have developed poor circulation in their limbs.
  • Elastic stockings should never be left on for more than eight hours at a time. It’s important to remove them every so often to let your skin breathe and avoid varicose veins!
  • In certain cases, the stockings will be left on for less than eight hours. As instructed by your doctor or supervising nurse, make sure to take care of them as necessary!

We hope this article has been helpful to you and we encourage anyone interested in becoming a CNA to visit our other skill test post. From proper foot care, how to use the bedpan, and much more!

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