Basic Nursing Skills

Question 1

The period of heart muscle contraction is called

A. Systole
B. Diastole
C. Fibrillation
D. Infarction

Answer 1

A. Systole

Question 2

The nurse aide is walking with a client confined to a wheelchair when the facility fire alarm system is activated. The client becomes excited from the noise. The nurse aide SHOULD
A. lock the client’s wheelchair and check the surrounding area for smoke.
B. comfort the client while moving to a safe place.
C. leave the client to search for help.
D. push the wheelchair out of the hallway and carry the client out of the facility.

Answer 2

A. lock the client’s wheelchair and check the surrounding area for smoke.

The nurse aide should be familiar with all fire safety policies and protocols. When a fire alarm sounds, all staff must respond to keep clients safe. Remember “R.A.C.E.” to quickly act. R = Rescue/Remove all people who can not take care of themselves. A = Alarm, if it has not already been done. Pulling the alarm can be done at the same time as rescue. C = Confine/Contain the fire or smoke by closing doors to prevent or slow the spread. Smoke is especially dangerous for everyone. E = Extinguish the fire if possible, using a handheld fire extinguisher. Attempt to extinguish only small fires, as long as you can remain safe and have an escape route.

Question 3

The nurse aide notices that the client’s radio cord is draped across a chair in order to reach the nearest outlet. The FIRST thing the nurse aide should do is
A. unplug the radio and ask the client not to use it.
B. see if any changes can be made so that the radio can be plugged in safely.
C. tell the client the radio is a safety hazard and take it away.
D. take the radio to the activities room and tell the client to listen to it there.

Answer 3

B. see if any changes can be made so that the radio can be plugged in safely. All facilities must comply with the electrical safety standards of governmental and accrediting agencies. Client devices, including radios or televisions, must be approved according to the facility’s policies. Cords cannot cause any potential hazards, such as tripping or falls. Extension cords are usually not allowed. The nurse aide can help the client find a place for the radio where the cord to be safely plugged in, so the client can continue to enjoy listening.

Question 4

When transferring a client, MOST of the client’s weight should be supported by the nurse aide’s
A.nshoulders
B. back
C. legs
D. wrists

Answer 4

C. legs

Question 5

The nursing care plan states, “Transfer with mechanical lift.” however, the client is very agitated. To transfer the client, the nurse aide SHOULD
A. place the client in the lift.
B. keep wheels unlocked so the lift can move with the client.
C. lift the client without the mechanical device.
D. get assistance to move the client.

Answer 5

D. get assistance to move the client.

Question 6

The case manager for a client requiring home health care is usually done by
A. A home health aide
B. A nutritionist
C. A registered nurse
D. A physician

Answer 6

C. A registered nurse

Question 7

The electric shaver that the nurse aide is using to shave a client begins to spark and smoke. What should the nurse aide do FIRST?
A. Use the roommate’s shaver to finish the shave
B. Call the nurse in charge.
C. Finish shaving the client as quickly as possible
D. Unplug the shaver

Answer 7

D. Unplug the shaver

Question 8

Which statement best describes ADL’s
A. Driving a car, shopping, cooking meals
B. Watching TV, sleeping, playing games
C. Bathing, feeding, dressing, ambulation
D. Going to work, having good relationships

Answer 8

C. Bathing, feeding, dressing, ambulation

Question 9

Rheumatoid arthritis may
A. Have periods of remission
B. Cause deformities
C. Cause pain and muscle spasms
D. All of the above

Answer 9

D. All of the above

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. The patient’s immune system attacks the lining of the membranes that surround the joints, causing severe pain, swelling, redness, and muscle spasms. Over time, the joints become deformed. There can be periods of remission, but there is no cure for RA.

Question 10

The nurse aide sees a client spill water on the floor in the hall. Another client is walking down the hall. The nurse aide SHOULD
A. leave the spill.
B. call the nurse.
C. clean up the spill.
D. call housekeeping.

Answer 10

C. clean up the spill.

Question 11

The first sign of a decubitis ulcer is
A. Mottled and cold skin
B. tender broken skin
C. white and insensitive skin
D. redness and warmth tender broken

Answer 11

D. redness and warmth tender broken

Question 12

When taking an oral temperature, it is important to
A. place the thermometer under the tongue.
B. put lubricant on the thermometer.
C. place the thermometer under the arm.
D. place the thermometer in the rectum.

Answer 12

A. place the thermometer under the tongue.
To take an oral temperature, make sure the client has not had anything hot or cold to eat or drink for 15 minutes. Place the thermometer under the client’s tongue. A digital thermometer will beep when it registers the client’s temperature. A glass thermometer will have a line that stops moving when it gives the reading. In an adult, a fever is considered to be greater than 38 degrees C (100.4 degrees F). For children, a fever is 37.5 degrees C (99.5 degrees F).

Question 13

When making an occupied bed, the nurse aide should always
A. Put the dirty sheets on the floor.
B. Keep the bed at the lowest level for patient safety.
C. Lower both side rails before changing the sheets.
D. Raise the side rail on the unattended side.

Answer 13

D. Raise the side rail on the unattended side.

Making an occupied bed involves changing the bed linens while keeping the patient comfortable. Use a privacy sheet to cover the patient during the process. Always raise the side rail on the opposite side of where you are working to prevent the patient from rolling out or falling.. If the patient is able, they can hold onto the side rail. Adjust the bed height to avoid injuring your back. Return the bed to its lowest level when you are finished.

Question 14

To convert four ounces of juice to milliliters (ml), the nurse aide should multiply
A. 4 x 15 ml
B. 4 x 5 ml
C.4 x 10 ml
D. 4 x 30 ml

Answer 14

D. 4 x 30 ml
When converting milliliters (ml) to ounces (oz) remember that 30 ml = 1 ounce. Although an ounce is slightly more, the amounts are considered to be equal by doctors and pharmacists.

Question 15

An apical pulse is counted for

Answer 15

1 full minute

Question 16

The equipment you need to gather to do unconscious oral care would include
A.Toothpaste
B. Toothbrush
C. toothette/mouth swab
D. All of the above

Answer 16

C. toothette/mouth swab
Because an unconscious client is not able to assist with oral care, the nurse aide must take extra precautions to prevent choking or aspirating while giving oral care. The client’s head should be turned to the side. If possible, lower the head of the bed. Gently clean the teeth and gums with a separate moist toothette or mouth swab for each area of the mouth. Wipe the client’s mouth when finished and raise the head of the bed to its prior position.

Question 17

Signs and symptoms of shock may include
A. Increased blood pressure, bradycardia, and flushed skin
B. Low blood pressure, tachycardia, clammy, pale skin
C. Hyperventilation
D. Absence of respirations and pulse

Answer 17

B. Low blood pressure, tachycardia, clammy, pale skin. Signs of shock include low blood pressure (hypotension), a rapid heart rate (tachycardia), a weak pulse, and pale skin which can be damp or clammy. The client may also be breathing rapidly (hyperventilation). The client may also be confused or not alert. Shock is an emergency situation, requiring rapid treatment.

Question 18

The nutrient used to build and repair tissue is
A. Carbohydrates
B. Fats
C. Protein
D. Vitamins

Answer 18

C. Protein

Protein is necessary to build and repair bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. It is also used to make hormones and enzymes.

Question 19

The recommended position for giving an enema is
A. Left Sims
B. Semi-fowlers
C. Supine
D. Prone

Answer 19

A. Left Sims

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.

Question 20

All of the following are signs of approaching death EXCEPT
A. Circulation increase
B. Breathing is labored
C. Low blood pressure
D. Cold extremities

Answer 20

A. Circulation increase

As death nears, the heart rate drops, causing many signs: the circulation slows, blood pressure drops, and the extremities become cold. Blood begins to pool on the patient’s back and back of the legs. Skin can grow pale. As the lungs work to bring in more oxygen, breathing becomes labored and irregular.

Question 21

Mrs. Jones is an insulin-dependent diabetic. What task should not be done for Mrs. Jones?
A. Bathing in warm water
B. Ambulating with a gait belt
C. Clipping toe nails
D. Feeding with a plastic spoon

Answer 21

C. Clipping toe nails

Question 22

The patient just voided 400cc of cloudy yellow urine that has a strong smell. The patient also complains of pain while urinating. What should you report to the nurse?
A. Record it in the patient’s chart for the nurse to read
B. Color, clarity, amount, odor, and pain
C. Color, amount, and odor
D. Color and amount

Answer 22

B. Color, clarity, amount, odor, and pain

Question 23

A major risk factor for a stroke is

A. Hypotension
B.Being underweight
C. Overuse of vitamins
D. Hypertension

Answer 23

A. Hypotension

Question 24

While taking a rectal temperature the nurse aide should insert the thermometer and
A. hold onto the thermometer until it can be removed.
B. go on his break.
C. take care of other patients and return in three minutes.
D. stay in the room until it is time to read the temperature.

Answer 24

A. hold onto the thermometer until it can be removed.

Question 25

A normal adult blood pressure is
A. 134/90
B. 80/40
C. 180/80
D. 116/70

Answer 25

D. 116/70
The American Heart Association guidelines state that a normal blood pressure for an adult is a systolic pressure of less than 120 and diastolic less than 80. Prehypertension levels are a systolic pressure of 120-139 and diastolic of 80-89. Hypertension begins at a systolic pressure of 140 or higher and diastolic of 90 or higher.

Question 26

The admission process includes all EXCEPT
A. Completing a physical assessment by the CNA
B. Weighing and measuring the person
C. Completing an admission checklist
D. Orientating the person to the room, nursing unit and facility

Answer 26

A. Completing a physical assessment by the CNA

Question 27

What is the best way of keeping a skilled nursing facility from having an unpleasant odor?
A. Keep all the windows open.
B. There is nothing you can do.
C. Empty bedpans and change linens in a timely manner.
D. Use an air freshener regularly

Answer 27

C. Empty bedpans and change linens in a timely manner.

Question 28

A patient has a diagnosis of psoriasis. Her nurse aide should

A. wear a mask when entering the room.
B. wear gloves for patient care.
C. avoid contact with the highly contagious lesions.
D. treat her the same as any other patient with a non-infectious disease.

Answer 28

D. treat her the same as any other patient with a non-infectious disease.

Question 29

Diabetes mellitus make a resident more prone to develop
A. infections
B.cancer
C. fever
D.chills

Answer 29

A. infections

Diabetics have high blood sugar levels which can decrease the immune system which fights infections. Urinary tract and skin are the most common places for infections in diabetics. Because diabetics often have nerve damage, they can develop foot infections without knowing.

Question 30

If the resident is smoking and the nurse aide needs to take an oral temperature, what should the nurse aide do

Answer 30

wait 15 minutes to take the temperature
Before taking an oral temperature, determine if the client has smoked, or had anything hot or cold to drink in the last 15 minutes. If so, wait a full 15 minutes before taking the temperature in order to obtain an accurate measurement.

Question 31

A sodium-restricted diet for heart disease does NOT include
A. Carrots and bananas
B. Pickles and olives
C. Hamburger and pears
D. Fish and potatoes

Answer 31

B. Pickles and olives Lowering or eliminating salt from the diet is important for people with heart disease. Salt causes fluid retention, which can strain the heart as it works harder to pump the extra fluid. Foods that are prepared or preserved with salt are not allowed: pickles, olives, soy sauce, broth mixes, sauerkraut, bacon bits, and barbeque sauce are examples of “hidden” sodium.

Question 32

When heat is applied to the skin, the blood vessels _______.
A. narrow
B. constrict
C. dilate
D. remain the same

Answer 32

C. dilate
Becomes wider or larger

Question 33

Many elderly residents lose their appetite due to
A. Depression
B.Social isolation
C. Decrease in number of taste buds
D. All of the above

Answer 33

All of above

Question 34

One of the major reasons the elderly person is incontinent of urine is

Answer 34

the muscle that keeps urine in the bladder weakens

As part of the aging process, a client may experience urinary incontinence because of weakness of the muscle that keeps the urine in until the client can get to the toilet. Other reasons are that the bladder itself doesn’t contract to expel all the urine. Bladder infections and prostate problems can contribute to incontinence. Diseases such as Alzheimer’s or multiple sclerosis can also be causes.

Question 35

Headaches, nausea and pain would be called
A. observations
B. charting
C. symptoms
D. assessment

Answer 35

C. symptoms

Question 36

The physician ordered Mrs. Jones “to receive physical therapy QOD”. That means that she will go ________.
A.four times a day
B.every four hours
C.every day
D.every other day

Answer 36

D.every other day

QOD means every other day. “Q” stands for every and “D” stands for day. “QD” is every day. Remember that “O” is other, or alternate.

Question 37

A bedsore or decubitus ulcer is caused by
A.burns
B. abrasions
C. fatigue
D. inadequate turning

Answer 37

D. inadequate turning

One of the primary responsibilities of a nurse aide is to monitor the client’s skin for any signs of breakdown that could develop into bedsores, also called decubitus ulcers or pressure sores. 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.

Question 38

Which of the following is true regarding the use of side rails on a bed?
A. Side rails on one side of a bed should be raised at all times.
B. Side rails should not be raised unless stated in the care plan.
C. Side rails should be raised at night.
D. Side rails should be raised on both sides when making an occupied bed.

Answer 38

B. Side rails should not be raised unless stated in the care plan.

Bed rails can be a safety risk for some clients who could be injured while trying to get out of bed. Clients can also become trapped or strangled in bed rails. Using bed rails without permission can be seen as an attempt to restrain the client. Always follow the care plan regarding use of bed rails.

Question 39

When making a bed, ________.
A.mraise the bed to the level of your hips.
B. raise the bed 12 inches.
C. raise the bed to the level of your waist.
D.do not raise the bed.

Answer 39

C. raise the bed to the level of your waist.

To avoid back injury, raise the bed to about waist height. You should be able to stand with your back straight.

Question 40

Edema means
A.Swelling
B. Decreased appetite
C. Increased appetite
D. Dehydration

Answer 40

A.Swelling

Edema (pronounced “Eh-DEE-mah”) is swelling caused by excess fluid that gets trapped in the body’s tissues. It usually occurs in the feet, ankles, and legs of a person with heart failure. It often develops gradually. The area looks puffy and the skin appears shiny. If you press on the area, it leaves a depression that lasts after you remove your finger.

Question 41

While providing denture care for a client, the nurse aide observes that the upper plate is cracked. The nurse aide should

Answer 41

Report the damage to the nurse in charge.

Question 42

Wasting or a decrease in the size of a muscle is called
A .edema
B. impaction
C. decubitus
D. atrophy

Answer 42

D. atrophy

Muscle atrophy is a loss of muscle mass. The main cause for atrophy is lack of physical activity, from either injury or disease. After an injury, the muscles are often immobile or painful to move. Examples: A herniated disc or a broken leg. Diseases which lead to atrophy include multiple sclerosis, anorexia nervosa, and AIDS.

Question 43

The proper temperature for a soapsuds enema is
A. 105°F
B. 115°F
C. 84°F
D. 98.6°F

Answer 43

A. 105°F

The proper temperature for a soapsuds enema is 105°F. This is slightly warmer than body temperature, or lukewarm.

Question 44

Settings where a CNA can work include
A. Hospitals
B. Home Care
C.Hospices
D. All of the above

Answer 44

D. All of the above

Question 45

Mr. Brown has an ankle brace. When you remove the brace, you notice a reddened area on the ankle bone. You should
A. put on two pairs of socks before the brace.
B. report your observations to the nurse.
C. apply a bandage to the reddened area.
D.massage the reddened area.

Answer 45

B. report your observations to the nurse.

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 remove the source of pressure or reposition the client to eliminate pressure. Never massage a reddened area, as this will increase the damage. Report your observation to the nurse.

Question 46

Mrs. Allen has a gastrostomy and the nurse just put Ensure through the feeding tube. The CNA needs to put her in which position for the next 1-2 hours?
A. Dorsal position
B. Fowler’s position
C. Supine position
D. Sim’s position

Answer 46

B. Fowler’s position

Fowler’s position is a sitting position that is used for several reasons. It prevents aspiration during and after a tube feeding. It can also help patients with respiratory problems breathe more easily. Standard Fowler’s position is 45-60 degrees.

Question 47

The surgical creation of an artificial opening of the large intestine is called _______.
A.a gastronomy
B.a colostomy
C.a pouch
D. a colectomy

Answer 47

B.a colostomy

A colostomy is a surgical procedure that takes a section of the colon and creates an artificial opening through the abdomen. The opening is called a stoma. Contents of the colon, or large intestine, are collected in a pouch outside the body.

Question 48

Which of the following is recorded as the systolic blood pressure?
A.The point when the pulse is no longer felt
B.The point where the last sound is heard
C. The point where the first sound is heard
D. The point 30 mm Hg above where the pulse was felt

Answer 48

C. The point where the first sound is heard

Question 49

What is the normal range of systolic blood pressure for adults?

Answer 49

100-120

Question 50

A restraint attached to a patient’s body and to a stationary object is ________.
A. a passive physical restraint
B. an active physical restraint
C. an illegal restraint
D. a chemical restraint

Answer 50

B. an active physical restraint

A restraint is a way of limiting a patient’s movement or freedom. It protects the patient’s safety or the safety of others. An active restraint is attached to the patient’s body and to a secure object. Example: a vest that ties to a wheelchair.

Question 51

The RN assigns you a task that is in your job description. Which statement is FALSE?
A. The RN can delegate the task to you if it’s suitable for the patient.
B. The RN should give you clear directions before you perform the task.
C. The RN should delegate every non-RN task to you.
D.The RN should check that you have the necessary education and training.

Answer 51

C.
The RN should delegate every non-RN task to you. While the RN can assign or delegate tasks that are in your job description, they must ensure that you know how to do the task and that it’s beneficial to the patient. Some non-RN tasks may be outside the scope of your CNA practice. If so, inform the RN.

Question 52

When giving an enema to a person you ask the person to lie on _______.
their back
their abdomen
their left side
their right side

Answer 52

their left side

Question 53

Which function is NOT done by the circulatory system?
Transmitting electrical pulses from the brain
Removing waste products from the cells
Transporting nutrients to the cells of the body
Delivering oxygenated blood throughout the body

Answer 53

Transmitting electrical pulses from the brain

Question 54

Mrs. Harvey complains of abdominal discomfort. Watery stool has been leaking from her rectum. This could be a sign of
A.diarrhea
B.bowel incontinence
C.constipation
D.fecal impaction

Answer 54

D.fecal impaction

Fecal impaction can be serious. When constipation is not resolved, stool becomes hardened and unable to pass. Liquid stool may pass around the impaction. Patients may complain of feeling bloated; having the urge to push; nausea or vomiting; not wanting to eat. There are several treatments to expel the impaction, but it may need to be manually removed.

Question 55

When nursing assistants find equipment in need of repair, they should

A.fill out an Incident Report.
B.wait for the safety inspection.
C.report it to the appropriate personnel.
D.continue to use the item until it is replaced.

Answer 55

C.report it to the appropriate personnel.

Question 56

A fracture-type bedpan is used for residents who
A.Have had hip surgery
B.Are in traction
C.Have a back injury
D.All of the above

Answer 56

D.All of the above

Question 57

When the valves in the legs weaken it can result in
A.Myocardial infarction
B.Cerebral vascular accident
C.Varicose veins
D.Heart failure

Answer 57

C.Varicose veins

Varicose veins are large, swollen veins in the legs that result from weakened valves. Veins have one-way valves to prevent blood from backflowing as it returns to the heart. If they are damaged, the blood pools in the veins, causing swelling, pain, and possibly blood clots. Varicose veins can be treated with compression stockings, or if they are serious, surgery.

Question 58

A health care agency or program for patients who are dying is

A.Managed care
B.Hospice
C.Case management
D.A preferred provider organization

Answer 58

B.Hospice

Hospice is a special type of care that works with patients who have life-limiting conditions, their families, and their caregivers. The goal is to maintain the patient’s dignity and quality of life, while supporting each person. Hospice care does not prolong life or hasten death.

Question 59

A nursing aide has four patients to assist. Who should she address first?
A.The patient who needs their drainage bag emptied
B.The patient who needs to be taken to the bathroom
C.The patient who lies uncomfortably in bed
D.The patient who asks for their glasses from the table to read

Answer 59

B.The patient who needs to be taken to the bathroom