This is our first free CNA basic nursing skills practice test. The question pattern is (NNAAP) standard and up to date for 2022. This practice test has 60 questions and you will be given 60 seconds per question to answer. To pass the test, you have to correct at least 80% which is 48 questions. At the end of each question, you can review the questions and learn from the explanations. Good Luck!
This is a timed quiz. You will be given 60 seconds per question. Are you ready?
A resident with an ileostomy evacuates feces through the
The ileum is the lowest part of the small intestine. An ileostomy is an opening in the abdomen that is created during surgery. The end of the ileum is placed outside the body and connected to a bag that collects the waste of the intestine. The ileostomy is usually on the lower right side of the body.
Which of these is the least likely to signal impending death?
Impending death will often lead to a decreased appetite rather than an increase in appetite. The other answer options are all common signs of a body shutting down.
Which of these treatments would be best to decrease swelling?
Cold packs are applied to reduce swelling. Heat compressions are common treatments for back pain. Dry bandage pressure is used to stop bleeding and moist bandages are used on burns.
You should be careful when changing, as this is a common site for unintentionally discarded needles.
As many procedures requiring the use of needles and other “sharps” are done at the bedside, the bed linens may be a place where extra precaution is needed when changing as they may be a common site for unintentionally discarded needles.
Why is an axillary reading generally lower than the other forms of taking a temperature?
Axillary temperatures are taken in the armpit. They are not actually inside the body such as in the mouth, rectum, or ear. The other answers are incorrect.
Continuing education is
For health care professionals, learning does not end at graduation. Medicine is constantly changing, and it is the responsibility of each person to be aware of new developments in their area of practice. Also, clinical standards and many states require proof of continuing education in order to renew a license or certification. During an accreditation survey, hospitals and facilities must show proof that staff members are receiving ongoing training and education.
Drainage bags from urinary catheters should always
Drainage bags from an indwelling Foley catheter should be kept below the the level of the bladder to prevent urine from backflowing into the bladder. It also allows gravity to help drain the tubing. Always check that the tubing is not kinked or compressed. Depending on the reason for the catheter, urine may have an unusual appearance; ask the nurse what is abnormal for the patient. Monitor and record the color of the urine as well as observations such as sediment, cloudiness, or blood. Follow your facility's policy or the patient's care plan regarding how often to change the urinary drainage bag.
A patient complains that her hand hurts where the IV is running. The nurse assistant notices that the hand is puffy. The best thing to do is
Infiltration happens when the IV fluid leaks into the tissue because of a dislodged or misplaced IV catheter . The nurse assistant should monitor the IV site and report if it becomes swollen, cool to the touch, or painful. The skin near the IV site may look pale. Always be careful when moving or assisting a client with an IV to avoid pulling the line.
Mrs. Shumway’s nursing care plan lists CHF (Congestive Heart Failure) as her primary dx. (diagnosis). You would expect her ADL routine to include
Congestive heart failure is a chronic disease that happens when the heart becomes weak and is unable to pump efficiently. It is important to monitor the client’s weight, because sudden weight gain means that the client is retaining fluid. This puts a strain on the heart and lungs. The nurse aide should weigh the client every morning at the same time and record the weight. Notify the nurse of any sudden change.
To obtain the most accurate patient weight, the nursing assistant should weigh the patient ____.
Weighing the patient at the same time every day will yield the most accurate results, as the patient is likely in similar circumstances.
Which of the following is the safest way to confirm a resident’s identity?
Accurate identification of a resident is always done by checking the resident's ID bracelet or tag. This is a universal standard of practice in every facility and health care setting. It ensures that the resident receives the correct treatment and care every time.
Mrs. Johnson is an 83-year-old female patient who suffers from the late effects of a CVA. she has {L} sided hemiplegia. This is
A client with left-sided hemiplegia has paralysis on the left side of the body. The paralysis can be partial or total. It occurs on the opposite side of the CVA (stroke) or brain disorder. Mrs. Sparks had a CVA on the right side of her brain, resulting in left-sided paralysis.
Another term for decubitus ulcer is
The term pressure sore is actually a more accurate term to use than decubitus ulcer. The other options are incorrect.
A professional and safe working appearance would include which of the following?
The nurse aide is considered a health care professional and should dress accordingly. Each facility has a dress code policy regarding the type of uniform to wear. Clothing must be clean and free from stains, tears, or wrinkles. Shoes must be closed toe with non-skid soles. Appropriate grooming is always necessary. To prevent a nurse aide from injuring a client while giving care, the nurse aide's jewelry is usually limited to a watch and a wedding ring. A name tag is part of the standard uniform.
Mrs. Hernandez had a hip replacement and is admitted to the long-term care facility for rehabilitation. Her condition is considered
An acute event is a new or sudden situation that is expected to resolve. Examples are a broken bone, a head cold or the flu, or an asthma attack. In this question, Mrs. Hernandez has an acute condition because she will be leaving the long-term care facility after she finishes rehabilitation. A chronic condition develops slowly and continues to progress. Examples are heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
A patient who was given insulin in the morning is pale and sweaty and appears confused two hours later. It would be helpful to find out whether the patient.
Diabetic clients have a strict schedule regarding insulin injections and eating. Eating causes blood sugar to rise, and the insulin helps move it into the cells. Without food, the blood sugar drops quickly, causing a serious situation. Immediate treatment is necessary. Quickly check the client’s blood sugar and report it to the nurse. The client will need to eat 15 grams of glucose or a simple carbohydrate, such as 1/2 cup orange juice or a Tablespoon of sugar. The nurse aide should be aware of which clients are diabetic so that meals are served shortly after receiving insulin.
On what side should the patient lie for an enema?
The left Sim’s position is used for rectal examinations and administering enemas. The client lies on the left side, with the right knee and hip bent. It is also called the lateral recumbent or semiprone side position.
Post-partum refers to
Post-partum is the medical term that means “after giving birth.” The prefix “post” always means after in any medical term. For example, post-operatively means “after surgery” and post-discharge means “after leaving treatment.” The term “partum” refers to giving birth.
Normal urine color is
Normal urine has a yellow color that ranges from dark yellow to light straw color. Urine that is amber-colored indicates dehydration; more fluids need to be taken. Brown urine can mean severe dehydration or liver disease, and should be checked. Red-tinted urine can occur after the client eats certain foods, such as beets or blueberries. Red urine can also be a sign of kidney disease, urinary tract infection, or prostate problems. Colorless urine may mean that the client is overhydrated and should reduce fluid intake.
Who can order a warm or cold application?
It is important to remember that only a doctor can order a treatment, test, or medication for a client. This includes even simple treatments such as hot and cold compresses. A nurse aide can be fired or lose certification for initiating treatments.
Meal trays have arrived. Before serving each tray, the nurse aide should
Some clients have special diets, severe food allergies, or strict fluid restrictions. Before serving a meal tray, always check the client's ID band or tag and match it to the correct tray. Although it can be tempting to skip this step in a long-term care facility, the nurse aide is legally responsible for verifying the identity of each client before serving food or giving care.
Which of the following statements about blindness are false?
People who are legally blind or visually impaired may still be able to see, but images can be quite blurry even when they're wearing glasses. They have difficulty reading and are restricted from such activities as driving. Another disability results from tunnel vision. A person with this condition can only see straight ahead, lacking peripheral vision to see almost 180 degrees. Only about 10 – 15% of people who are diagnosed as blind see nothing at all.
Which of these applies to proper hand washing procedures?
Using a paper towel to turn off the faucet prevents transferring germs from the faucet to your hands. The other options are incorrect because friction needs to be longer than 15 seconds, using only antibacterial soap may not be an option, and some soaps can be effective even if they do not produce a lot of lather.
Your resident consumed a bowl of soup that was 180 cc of liquid. How many ounces was that?
180 cc = 6 oz. When converting cubic centimeters (c to ounces (oz) remember that 30 cc= 1 ounce. Although an ounce is slightly more, the amounts are considered to be equal by doctors and pharmacists. Also, 1 cc = 1 ml.
To take a rectal temperature, the nurse aide should insert the thermometer and
A rectal reading is the most accurate way to measure body temperature, but it needs to be done correctly. After placing the client in the Sims position, lubricate the thermometer and gently insert it about one or two inches into the rectum. Hold the thermometer in place for two minutes to prevent it from being pushed out or advancing into the rectum. After withdrawing the thermometer, wipe it with a gauze pad, read the temperature, and place the thermometer in the "used" container.
Alcohol-based hand cleanser is appropriate for all of these situations except ____.
Observable dirt that is visible on hands requires soap and water. The other options are all considered times that alcohol-based hand cleanser could be used.
The normal pulse rate for an adult is 60-100 beats per minute. The normal pulse rate for children is
A range of 70 to 120 is normal for young children. Babies up to 1 year old can have even higher pulse rates. The other options could apply to adults or conditioned athletes but are incorrect for children.
Most of our calories should come from
A balanced diet is essential for health. When the client consumes nutrients in the right combination of calories, the person's desired weight is maintained. Carbohydrates supply fuel for the body, so 45 – 65% of calories should come from carbohydrates. The energy is stored in the muscles and liver for immediate or future use, as well as for the brain to function. Fat and protein have important roles, but they are not good as energy sources.
Which of these is not true when taking a blood pressure reading?
It is not optimum to have a resident lying down for a blood pressure reading. All of the other options are true considerations for optimum results.
Which of the following is associated with smoking?
The effects of smoking can cause many diseases and medical complications. While cigarette smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, it also causes other lung conditions such as COPD, emphysema, and pneumonia. Smokers are more likely to develop heart disease and have heart attacks and strokes. Vitamins are depleted in smokers, especially vitamin C and the B vitamins.
In the Nursing Care Plan, you note that it is written, “O2 per N/C @3L, Orthopnea pos. as needed”. As a CNA, you know that this means which of the following?
Every facility has a list of approved abbreviations. The CNA should become familiar with these, for reading care plans and for preparing documentation. This nursing care plan means that the client is receiving oxygen at a constant rate of 3 liters per minute, using a nasal cannula. If the client has difficulty breathing, the CNA can assist the client to sit in a Fowler's (upright) position.
A nurse assistant notices red marks on a resident’s back and buttocks. The aide acts in the knowledge that
A reddened area is the first sign of skin breakdown. It means that there is pressure and a lack of blood circulation to the area. The nurse aide should immediately reposition the client to eliminate pressure. Clients who are not mobile need to be repositioned at least every two hours. Never massage a reddened area, because this will only increase the damage. Keep the client clean from perspiration, urine, and feces. Continue to observe the skin and report to the nurse if the marks do not quickly disappear.
When having a conversation with a dysphasic patient (someone who has trouble speaking), it is important not to
Dysphasia may occur as the result of a neurological problem (stroke or Alzheimers disease) or a past surgery to remove a cancer from the mouth, tongue, oral cavity, or larynx (voice box). It is important to remember that although the patients ability to communicate has been affected, their intelligence has not. Be patient and do not hurry them. Do not try to finish what you believe they are trying to say. Use visual aids and devices to help them communicate, encourage them to use all of their senses to convey their needs, and always praise their efforts to communicate.
You are caring for Mr. Brown who has a diagnosis of COPD. His SpO2 is 82%. He is currently receiving O2 via Nasal Cannula @ 2 liters/min. What do you do?
The normal SpO2 range for a client with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COP is 88-92%. This is because oxygen reaches the lungs, but lung damage prevents oxygen from getting into the blood. Giving oxygen is carefully regulated for clients with COPD, with limits according to how the oxygen is delivered. Immediately report a low saturation to the nurse. Do not make any changes on your own.
Which of the following should be reported immediately?
A low blood pressure (hypotension) is less than 90/60. Only one of the numbers has to be lower to be considered hypotension. Some clients may have a normal blood pressure in the low range, but if there is a sudden drop from usual, immediately report it to the nurse.
Which medical term is often used for “burping, belching and passing gas”?
The medical term for intestinal gas is flatus. Familial refers to a condition more common in certain families than in the general population. Fascia is the medical term for a tissue lining under the skin. Flank is used for a side of the back.
What is the best way to keep a skilled nursing facility from having an unpleasant odor?
All staff in a skilled nursing facility are responsible for maintaining a pleasant environment. Any source of odor must be dealt with at once. Bedpans and commodes should be emptied and cleaned as soon as the client finishes. All linens should be changed in accordance with the facility's policies and as needed. Soiled linens should be transferred to the laundry facilities as soon as possible. Housekeeping can clean the common areas, dining room, and client rooms to prevent odors from food or incontinent episodes.
Why is taking a residents oral temperature the most common means of obtaining a reading?
Ease of using this method makes it the most preferable. The other answer options are not necessarily true.
In a report, the nurse aide is told that one of her patients has been ordered NPO after midnight. The aide should
NPO is a common medical term that means the client can not eat or drink anything, including water or ice chips. A doctor may order a patient to be NPO before surgery or certain lab work. The nurse aide can provide mouth care for a client who is NPO. Placing an "NPO" sign over the client's bed and on the client's door will remind all staff members not to give the client anything to eat or drink.
Mrs. Shumway has an order for I&O. You have picked up her breakfast and note that she drank half of a 6 oz. glass of juice, 4 oz. of milk, and 8 oz. of coffee. Therefore, you document
The question involves HALF of a 6 oz glass. 15 oz = 450 mL. When converting ounces (oz) to milliliters (mL), remember that 1 oz = 30 mL. Although an ounce is very slightly less, the amounts are considered equal by doctors and pharmacists. NOTE: You may still find some liquid measurements in cubic centimeters (c. One cc = one mL.
To avoid pulling the catheter when turning a patient, the catheter tube should be taped to the patients
Taping the catheter to the upper thigh can help prevent inadvertent removal and physical trauma. Taping it to the outer thigh, bed frame, or knee can cause pulling and removal when you are turning a patient.
A resident has the following symptoms: dizziness, feeling faint, blood pressure below 90/60 and cold, sweaty skin. The resident is most likely suffering from
Hypotension is low blood pressure and all these symptoms are associated with it. Hypodermia is the medical term for tissue under the epidermis, hypoglottis is the underside of the tongue, and hypertension is high blood pressure.
Which of the following measurements that you obtained from Mrs. Shumway should be reported immediately to the charge nurse?
Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure over 140/90. Severe hypertension is above 180/120. Even if the client has a history of high blood pressure, always immediately report a sudden increase to the nurse. Untreated hypertension can lead to heart disease and stroke.
To help ensure adequate circulation to prevent skin breakdown, you could
One of the primary responsibilities of a nurse aide is to monitor the client’s skin for any signs of breakdown. During baths, dressing, or position changes, inspect the skin for redness, pallor, warmth, or bruising. Reposition at least every two hours, protecting areas that rub together, as well as the bony prominences. Massages to the back and buttocks can promote circulation. Range-of-motion exercises are also helpful. Always report any signs of breakdown to the nurse.
Before performing any procedure, a nurse aide must
Clinical standards require all health care professionals to identify the client by checking the ID band or tag before providing care. They should wash their hands both before and after an encounter with a client. They should also explain what they are going to do and give the client an opportunity to ask questions before proceeding.
The circulatory system consists of the
The circulatory system is made up of the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. They are connected to make a complete circuit in the body. The heart pumps oxygenated blood from the lungs, as well as nutrients, through the arteries to the capillaries. The capillaries then deliver carbon dioxide and waste to the veins. The veins take the waste products to the liver and kidneys for disposal, and the carbon dioxide goes to the lungs to be exhaled.
The charge nurse has asked you to take Mrs. Shumway’s vital signs. You know you must first
Before providing any care, the nurse aide must follow all the standard steps in preparation. ALL of the steps must be taken before proceeding, not just one. Gather everything needed, so that you don’t have to leave the client’s room once you begin. Handwashing is always done before and after each client interaction. Knocking before entering the client’s room, introducing yourself, identifying the client, and explaining what you will be doing are also part of standard practice.
A patient appears paler than usual. The nurse aide should
Whenever you notice a change in the client's condition, stop to assess the client and take vital signs. If the client is able to respond, ask the person how he or she feels. Report the change, vital signs, and client's response to the nurse. When charting, document what you observed and did.
A nurse aide notices blood in a patient’s IV tubing. The aide should
When an IV is running well, the tubing should be clear and the IV site clean and dry. If you notice blood in the tubing, notify the nurse. It is beyond the scope of practice for a nurse aide to do anything with an IV.
All of these might be used in dealing with contractures except
Contractures involve the degeneration and stiffening of joints. Bandaging is not used as a method of prevention or treatment. The other options are all possible ways of preventing contractures from happening or loosening joints after contraction has occurred.
The safest way to confirm a resident’s identity is
Accurate identification of a resident is always done by checking the resident’s ID bracelet or tag. This is a universal standard of practice in every facility and health care setting. It ensures that the resident receives the correct treatment and care every time.
Which of these would most likely be used to protect a resident from inflicting immediate harm to themselves in a care facility setting?
Restraints are only used with an order from the physician and only when the resident is in danger of harm to themselves or others. Isolation increases the chance for harm and additional staff or a 24/7 watch schedule are likely unmanageable with the number of residents and staff in a care facility. This is the correct answer, given the answer choices, however, please check the regulations in your state concerning the use of restraints. There is at least one state that does not permit their use.
A patient has a diagnosis of psoriasis. Her nurse aide should
Auto-immune diseases are never contagious. They happen when the body’s defense (immune) system attacks its own healthy tissue by mistake. Besides psoriasis, other examples of an auto-immune disease are lupus, celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. Client care is the same as for any other client without an auto-immune disease.
Signs and symptoms of shock may include
Signs of shock include low blood pressure (hypotension); a rapid heart rate (tachycardi; a weak pulse; and pale skin, which can be damp or clammy. The client may be breathing rapidly (hyperventilation). The client may also be confused or not alert. Shock is an emergency situation requiring rapid treatment.
Which statement is incorrect regarding the Heimlich maneuver?
If the resident can cough, there is a good chance the object will be dislodged. If the resident cannot speak or cough it is a sign you need to do the maneuver. All of the other options are correct.
Mrs. Shumway has an order for I&O. You have picked up her breakfast and note she drank half of a 6oz. glass of juice, 4oz. of milk, and 8oz. of coffee, you document
The question is about HALF of a 6oz. glass. 15 oz. = 450 cc. When converting ounces (oz.) to cubic centimeters (c remember that 1 oz. = 30 cc. Although an ounce is slightly more, the amounts are considered to be equal by doctors and pharmacists. Also, 1 cc = 1 ml.
The opening of the colostomy to the outside of the body is called
A stoma is an artificial opening in the body, created surgically. To create a colostomy, the surgeon brings the end of the colon through the abdomen and creates a mouthlike opening that will drain waste into a bag. A stoma can also be created for the bladder or the ileum (the lowest part of the small intestine).
The brain is part of the
The nervous system has two parts. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system (CNS). The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is made up of all the body's nerves, which connect to the CNS. The brain sends messages through the spinal cord and nerves to control the body's muscles and organs. It also processes and interprets the information from both inside and outside the body.
When caring for a resident with an indwelling Foley catheter, you should
When a client has an indwelling Foley catheter, the nurse aide should check that the tubing is open so that the urine can flow from the bladder. After each position change or whenever the client returns to the bed or chair after being up, ensure that the tubing is not kinked or closed. Finally, the bag should be lower than the bladder to prevent backflow.
Which of these is incorrect in reference to wearing gloves?
Latex gloves may not necessarily be the best choice because of latex allergies. The other options are all necessary precautions that should be used.
