The Ultimate |CNA| Mastery Guide: Your
Path to Success in the Nursing Assistant
Certification Exam *Q&A* (100% Correct)
2025/2026 |VERIFIED|
What is the primary responsibility of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) when assisting a patient with
feeding?
The CNA should ensure the patient is positioned comfortably, assist with cutting or preparing
food if necessary, and monitor the patient's swallowing to prevent choking.
How should a CNA respond if a patient begins to complain about shortness of breath during a routine
procedure?
The CNA should immediately stop the procedure, notify the nurse or physician, and assist the
patient in a position that eases their breathing, such as sitting upright.
What is the correct technique for hand washing to prevent the spread of infection?
Wet hands, apply soap, rub hands together for at least 20 seconds, rinse thoroughly, and dry with
a clean paper towel or air dryer.
How should a CNA address a patient who refuses to take prescribed medications?
The CNA should report the refusal to the nurse, ensure the patient understands the importance
of the medication, and respect the patient's autonomy.
What is the most effective way for a CNA to assist a resident with mobility limitations while preventing
falls?
The CNA should use assistive devices like walkers or canes, maintain a steady gait, and always
offer support while walking.
What are the appropriate steps for repositioning a bedridden patient?
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, The CNA should explain the procedure to the patient, use proper body mechanics, ensure the
patient is in a comfortable and safe position, and reposition at least every two hours to prevent
bedsores.
What is the purpose of using standard precautions in patient care?
Standard precautions prevent the spread of infections by treating all blood, body fluids, non-
intact skin, and mucous membranes as potentially infectious.
What should a CNA do if they notice a patient has developed a pressure ulcer?
The CNA should notify the nurse immediately, document the ulcer's location and appearance,
and ensure proper repositioning techniques are followed to prevent further damage.
How can a CNA ensure patient dignity when providing personal care?
The CNA should maintain the patient’s privacy, use proper draping, communicate respectfully,
and encourage the patient to be as independent as possible during personal care.
What is the proper procedure for taking a patient's temperature orally?
The CNA should ensure the thermometer is clean, place it under the patient’s tongue, ask the
patient to close their mouth, and wait for the thermometer to beep before removing it.
Why is it important for a CNA to monitor a patient’s vital signs regularly?
Monitoring vital signs helps detect changes in the patient's condition early, providing important
data for healthcare providers to make timely medical decisions.
What should a CNA do if a patient is found unresponsive?
The CNA should check for breathing, immediately call for help, and initiate CPR if necessary while
following proper protocols.
What is the correct technique for assisting a patient with ambulation?
The CNA should ensure the patient is wearing non-slip shoes, offer assistance with a gait belt if
needed, and provide support while maintaining the patient’s balance.
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,What is the best way to assist a patient with a colostomy bag?
The CNA should ensure proper hygiene when emptying or changing the colostomy bag, maintain
the patient's privacy, and check the bag for leaks or odors regularly.
How should a CNA assist a patient in taking a bath or shower?
The CNA should ensure the water temperature is comfortable, offer assistance as needed while
respecting the patient’s privacy, and ensure safety to prevent slips or falls.
What are the signs of dehydration that a CNA should look out for?
Dry mouth, decreased urine output, dark-colored urine, dizziness, and confusion are signs of
dehydration that require immediate attention.
What is the best practice when transferring a patient from a bed to a wheelchair?
The CNA should use proper body mechanics, ensure the wheelchair is locked, and provide
support to the patient to prevent falls or injury during the transfer.
How should a CNA handle a situation where a patient exhibits signs of confusion or agitation?
The CNA should remain calm, use clear and simple communication, ensure the patient’s
environment is safe, and notify the nurse of any significant behavioral changes.
What is the importance of proper documentation in nursing assistant care?
Documentation ensures that the patient's care is accurately recorded, allows for communication
between healthcare providers, and is legally required for patient safety and accountability.
What steps should a CNA take to prevent a patient from choking while eating?
The CNA should ensure the patient is seated upright, encourage small bites, assist with chewing if
needed, and monitor the patient closely during meals.
What should a CNA do if a patient complains of pain?
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, The CNA should listen attentively, report the complaint to the nurse, assist the patient with
comfort measures, and follow any prescribed pain management protocol.
How can a CNA help reduce a patient’s risk of developing blood clots in the legs?
The CNA should encourage frequent leg exercises, assist with ambulation as appropriate, and
ensure the patient is wearing compression stockings if ordered.
What should a CNA do when assisting a patient with incontinence care?
The CNA should maintain the patient’s dignity, use proper hygiene techniques, and monitor for
any signs of skin breakdown.
What is the proper procedure for measuring a patient's blood pressure?
The CNA should ensure the cuff is placed at the correct position on the arm, inflate it to the
correct pressure, and listen for the systolic and diastolic readings using a stethoscope.
How should a CNA handle a situation where a patient is upset or anxious?
The CNA should offer reassurance, listen to the patient's concerns, stay calm, and notify the nurse
if the situation requires further intervention.
What is the appropriate response if a patient is found with a high fever?
The CNA should notify the nurse immediately, document the temperature, and assist with
comfort measures such as adjusting room temperature or offering fluids if appropriate.
How should a CNA assist a patient with oral hygiene?
The CNA should ensure the patient is in a comfortable position, use a soft toothbrush or sponge,
and offer assistance with flossing if necessary.
What should a CNA do if a patient is experiencing a seizure?
The CNA should stay calm, protect the patient from injury by removing nearby hazards, and place
a soft object under the head while notifying the nurse and documenting the event.
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