Certified Nursing Assistant Exam Practice Test

Among the many CNA skills, strong communication skills are one of the most important to have when it comes to attaining the goals set to you as a medical practitioner. If you are planning to be a medical practitioner, there are many hats you will be expected to wear in regards to jobs you will do. Take the CNA practice exam quiz below and revise it before the certification exam.


Questions and Answers

  • 1. Which of the following should you observe and record when admitting a client?
    • A. Color of the stool and amount of urine voided
    • B. How much the client has eaten and drunk
    • C. Bruises, marks, rashes, or broken skin
    • D. Insurance information
    Correct Answer
    C. Bruises, marks, rashes, or broken skinExplanation
    When admitting a client, it is important to observe and record any bruises, marks, rashes, or broken skin. This is crucial for assessing the client’s overall health and identifying any potential injuries or skin conditions that may require medical attention. Monitoring the color of the stool and the amount of urine voided is important for assessing the client’s digestive and urinary system functioning. Recording how much the client has eaten and drunk helps in monitoring their nutritional intake and hydration levels. However, insurance information is not directly related to the client’s immediate health assessment and does not need to be observed and recorded during admission.Rate this question:
  • 2. When responding to a client on the intercom you should
    • A. Ask for the client’s name.
    • B. Say, “What do you want?”
    • C. Give your name and position and say “may I help you?”
    • D. Say, “The nurse will answer your call.”
    Correct Answer
    C. Give your name and position and say “may I help you?”Explanation
    When responding to a client on the intercom, it is important to provide a professional and courteous greeting. Giving your name and position and asking “may I help you?” demonstrates a polite and helpful attitude towards the client. This approach establishes a positive and welcoming interaction, ensuring that the client feels valued and supported. It also sets the tone for effective communication and assists in addressing the client’s needs promptly and efficiently.Rate this question:
  • 3. Which of the following things should you do to familiarize a new client with his or her surroundings?
    • A. Show the client where the call light is and how to work it.
    • B. Tell the client no to operate the TV.
    • C. Ask visitors to leave the room while you finish admittin th client.
    • D. Raise the side rails of the bed and raise the bed to high position.
    Correct Answer
    A. Show the client where the call light is and how to work it.
  • 4. When arranging a patient’s room, you should do all of the following EXCEPT
    • A. Check signal cords.
    • B. Adjust the back and knee rests as directed.
    • C. Administer medications.
    • D. Check to light.
    Correct Answer
    C. Administer medications.Explanation
    When arranging a patient’s room, there are several tasks that need to be completed. Checking signal cords is important to ensure that the patient can easily call for assistance. Adjusting the back and knee rests as directed is necessary to provide the patient with comfort and support. Checking the light is important to ensure that the room is well-lit and safe for the patient. However, administering medications is not a task that falls under the responsibility of arranging a patient’s room. Medication administration is typically done by nurses or healthcare professionals and is not directly related to the physical arrangement of the room.Rate this question:
  • 5. When assisting a client in and out of bed, the nurse aide should always
    • A. Employ body mechanic techniques.
    • B. Get another person to help.
    • C. Pull the client’s fee out first, and then lift the back up.
    • D. Put shoes on the client because the patient may slip.
    Correct Answer
    A. Employ body mechanic techniques.
  • 6. When should you wash your hands?
    • A. When you notice they look or feel dirty
    • B. When the charge nurse tells you to
    • C. At least twice daily
    • D. Before and after contact with a patient
    Correct Answer
    D. Before and after contact with a patient
  • 7. Which of the following is the correct procedure for serving a meal to a client who must be fed?
    • A. Serve the tray along with all the other trays, and then come back to feed the client
    • B. Bring the tray to the client last; feed after you have served all other clients
    • C. Bring the tray into the room when you are ready to feed the client
    • D. Have the kitchen staff hold the tray for one hour
    Correct Answer
    C. Bring the tray into the room when you are ready to feed the client
  • 8. The MOST serious problem that wrinkles in the bedclothes can cause is
    • A. Restlessness.
    • B. Sleeplessness.
    • C. Decubitus ulcers.
    • D. Bleeding and shock.
    Correct Answer
    C. Decubitus ulcers.Explanation
    Wrinkles in the bedclothes can cause decubitus ulcers, also known as bedsores. These ulcers occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, usually in areas where bones are close to the surface. The pressure reduces blood flow to the area, leading to tissue damage and the formation of ulcers. Restlessness and sleeplessness may be temporary discomforts caused by wrinkles, but decubitus ulcers are a more serious and long-term consequence. Bleeding and shock are not directly caused by wrinkles in the bedclothes.Rate this question:
  • 9. An important way to reduce the incidence of decubitus ulcers is to
    • A. Keep the client in bed.
    • B. Force fluids every 2 hours.
    • C. Change position every 2 hours.
    • D. All of the above.
    Correct Answer
    C. Change position every 2 hours.Explanation
    Changing position every 2 hours is an important way to reduce the incidence of decubitus ulcers. This helps to relieve pressure on specific areas of the body, improving blood circulation and preventing the development of pressure ulcers. Keeping the client in bed and forcing fluids every 2 hours may have their own benefits, but they are not specifically targeted at reducing the incidence of decubitus ulcers.Rate this question:
  • 10. You are told to put a client in Fowler’s position. Before changing the position of the client’s bed you should
    • A. Open the window.
    • B. Explain the procedure to the client.
    • C. Check with the client’s family.
    • D. Remake the bed.
    Correct Answer
    B. Explain the procedure to the client.Explanation
    Before changing the position of the client’s bed, it is important to explain the procedure to the client. This is necessary to ensure that the client is aware of what is happening and feels comfortable with the change. By explaining the procedure, the client can provide any necessary input or express any concerns they may have. This helps to establish trust and maintain good communication between the client and the caregiver, ensuring a smooth transition in the client’s position.Rate this question:
  • 11. During had washing, the nurse aide accidentally touches the inside of the sink while rinsing the soap off. The NEXT action is to
    • A. Allow the water to run over the hands for two minutes.
    • B. Dry the hands and turn off the faucet with the paper towel.
    • C. Repeat the wash from the beginning.
    • D. None of the above
    Correct Answer
    C. Repeat the wash from the beginning.Explanation
    If the nurse aide accidentally touches the inside of the sink while rinsing the soap off, it means that the hands may have come into contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. To ensure proper hand hygiene and prevent the spread of germs, the next action should be to repeat the handwashing process from the beginning. This will ensure that the hands are thoroughly cleaned and the risk of contamination is minimized.Rate this question:
  • 12. When giving mouth care to an unconscious patient, the safest position to prevent aspiration is
    • A. On her or his back.
    • B. In semi-Fowler’s position.
    • C. With the head turned to the side.
    • D. In the supine position.
    Correct Answer
    C. With the head turned to the side.
  • 13. Mr. Roark, a newly admitted conscious client, has been put to bed. Before leaving him alone, the FIRST action would be to
    • A. Ask him if he is hungry.
    • B. Inspect his skin.
    • C. Complete the listing of clothing and valuables.
    • D. Make sure he knows how to use the call light.
    Correct Answer
    D. Make sure he knows how to use the call light.
  • 14. When lifting a heavy object, the correct method would be to bend at the
    • A. Wast, keeping your legs straight.
    • B. Wast, rounding your shoulders.
    • C. Knees, keeping your back straight.
    • D. Knees and waist.
    Correct Answer
    C. Knees, keeping your back straight.Explanation
    The correct method for lifting a heavy object is to bend at the knees, keeping your back straight. This is because bending at the knees helps to distribute the weight evenly and allows the leg muscles to do most of the work, reducing strain on the back. Keeping the back straight helps to maintain proper alignment and prevents injury to the spine.Rate this question:
  • 15. When cleaning a client’s dentures at the sink the reason the either line the emesis basin with a paper towel or to fill the sink with water is to
    • A. Prevent contamintion of the dentures.
    • B. Hide the dentures from view.
    • C. Guard against breaking the dentures.
    • D. Protect the basin from scratches.
    Correct Answer
    C. Guard against breaking the dentures.
  • 16. When assisting a client with eating, the FIRST thing the nurse aide should do is
    • A. Cut the food into large bite-size pieces.
    • B. Wash his/her hands and the client’s hands.
    • C. Butter the client’s bread.
    • D. Provide the client with privacy.
    Correct Answer
    B. Wash his/her hands and the client’s hands.Explanation
    The first thing the nurse aide should do when assisting a client with eating is to wash his/her hands and the client’s hands. This is important to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of germs and infections. Washing hands before handling food helps to remove any potential contaminants and ensures that the client’s food is safe to eat. Additionally, washing the client’s hands helps to maintain their personal hygiene and prevent the spread of germs from their hands to their mouth while eating.Rate this question:
  • 17. A patient has a new cast on his right arm. While caring for him, it is important to FIRST observe for
    • A. Pulse above the cast.
    • B. Color and hardness of the cast.
    • C. Warmth and color of fingers.
    • D. Signs of crumbling at the cast end.
    Correct Answer
    C. Warmth and color of fingers.
  • 18. Encouraging a client to take part in activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, combing hair, and feeding is
    • A. Done only when time permits.
    • B. The family’s responsibility.
    • C. Necessary for rehabilitation.
    • D. A violation of clients’ rights.
    Correct Answer
    C. Necessary for rehabilitation.
  • 19. Before assisting a client into wheelchair, the FIRST action would be to check if the
    • A. The client is adequately covered.
    • B. The floor is slippery.
    • C. The door to the room is closed.
    • D. Wheels of the chair are locked.
    Correct Answer
    D. Wheels of the chair are locked.
  • 20. While giving an unconscious patient a bath, it is important to
    • A. Pass the range of motion to all joints.
    • B. Let the charge nurse exercise the patient’s joints.
    • C. Call the physical therapist to exercise the patient afterward.
    • D. Exercise the patient only if the doctor has ordered it.
    Correct Answer
    A. Pass the range of motion to all joints.
  • 21. You are assigned to assist Mrs. Kelley with her lunch. She is on bed rest. The BEST position for her, if permitted, would be
    • A. Tredelenberg position.
    • B. Hyperextension.
    • C. Legs dangling at the side of the bed.
    • D. Fowler’s position.
    Correct Answer
    D. Fowler’s position.
  • 22. When moving a wheelchair onto and elevator, you should stay
    • A. Behind the chair, pulling it toward you.
    • B. Behind the chair, pushing it away from you.
    • C. In front of the client to observe his or her condition.
    • D. To the side and hold the door open.
    Correct Answer
    A. Behind the chair, pulling it toward you.
  • 23. The Foley bag must be kept lower than the client’s bladder so that
    • A. Urine will not leak out, soiling the bed.
    • B. Urine will not return to the bladder, causing infection.
    • C. The bag will be hidden and the client will not be embarrassed.
    • D. The client will be more comfortable in bed.
    Correct Answer
    B. Urine will not return to the bladder, causing infection.
  • 24. Mrs. Black is a diabetic. For her midafternoon nourishment, the kitchen has sent a cartoon of chocolate ice cream. Your FIRST action should be to
    • A. Substitute diet cola for ice cream.
    • B. Hold the nourishment and report to the charge nurse.
    • C. Ask the secretary to notify the kitchen of an error,
    • D. Ask Mrs. Black if she likes ice cream.
    Correct Answer
    B. Hold the nourishment and report to the charge nurse.
  • 25. When assisting a client to use the bedside commode, it is important to
    • A. Leave the call light within reach.
    • B. Place toilet tissue close by.
    • C. Return to check on the client periodically.
    • D. All of the above.
    Correct Answer
    D. All of the above.
  • 26. When assisting Mr. Byrd, a blind client, with his meal, it is NECESSARY to
    • A. Sit next to him to help.
    • B. Identify each item on his tray.
    • C. Feed him so he won’t spill his food
    • D. Insist him to only use a spoon
    Correct Answer
    B. Identify each item on his tray.
  • 27. The purpose of cold applications is usually to
    • A. Speed the flow of blood to the area.
    • B. Prevent heat exhaustion.
    • C. Prevent or reduce swelling.
    • D. Prevent the formation of scar tissue.
    Correct Answer
    C. Prevent or reduce swelling.Explanation
    Cold applications, such as ice packs or cold compresses, are commonly used to prevent or reduce swelling. When applied to an injured area, the cold temperature causes vasoconstriction, narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the area. This helps to decrease inflammation and swelling by limiting the amount of fluid that accumulates in the tissues. Additionally, cold applications can also help to numb the area and provide pain relief.Rate this question:
  • 28. The hot water bottle is an example of a
    • A. Local dry heat application.
    • B. Generalized dry heat application.
    • C. Local moist heat application.
    • D. Generalized moist heat application.
    Correct Answer
    A. Local dry heat application.Explanation
    A hot water bottle is a specific type of heat application that provides dry heat to a localized area. It is typically filled with hot water and placed on the body to relieve pain or provide warmth. Unlike moist heat applications, such as hot towels or steam, the hot water bottle does not involve any moisture. Additionally, it is a localized application, meaning it is applied to a specific area rather than the entire body. Therefore, the hot water bottle fits the description of a local dry heat application.Rate this question:
  • 29. Clients receiving an enema are usually placed
    • A. On the right side.
    • B. On the left side.
    • C. Flat on the back.
    • D. In a semi-sitting position
    Correct Answer
    B. On the left side.
  • 30. A female client’s perineal area should be cleansed before which specimen is collected?
    • A. The 24-hour urine specimen.
    • B. The midstream clean-catch urine specimen.
    • C. The pediatric routine urine specimen.
    • D. The routine urine specimen.
    Correct Answer
    B. The midstream clean-catch urine specimen.
  • 31. The most common site for counting the pulse is the
    • A. Carotid artery.
    • B. Femoral artery.
    • C. Brachial artery.
    • D. Radial artery.
    Correct Answer
    D. Radial artery.
  • 32. When counting respirations, the nurse aide should
    • A. Wait until after the client has exercised.
    • B. Not tell the patient what you are going to do.
    • C. Count five respirations and then check your watch.
    • D. Have the client count respirations while you take her pulse.
    Correct Answer
    B. Not tell the patient what you are going to do.
  • 33. With catheterized patients, which of the following is NOT the nurse aide’s responsibility?
    • A. Insertion of the catheter
    • B. Prevention of infarction.
    • C. Checking to make sure the catheter is draining properly.
    • D. Recording output.
    Correct Answer
    A. Insertion of the catheter
  • 34. When giving information to the charge nurse for an incident report, the nurse aide should
    • A. Write in the client’s chart that an incident occurred.
    • B. Keep the report in your personal file.
    • C. Stat the facts clearly.
    • D. Give your opinions as to the cause of the incident.
    Correct Answer
    C. Stat the facts clearly.
  • 35. All long-term-care nurse aides must be competency evaluated and must complete a distinct education course, these requirements are set by
    • A. OBRA.
    • B. OSHA.
    • C. CDC.
    • D. FDA.
    Correct Answer
    A. OBRA.
  • 36. Sexuality changes in aging can result in
    • A. Decreased sexual desire.
    • B. Unchanged sexual desire.
    • C. Increased sexual desire.
    • D. All of the above
    Correct Answer
    D. All of the above
  • 37. When family members visit a client, the visitors should
    • A. Stay in the day room.
    • B. Stay a short while so as not to tire the client.
    • C. Be expected to help with care.
    • D. Be allowed privacy with the client.
    Correct Answer
    D. Be allowed privacy with the client.
  • 38. You may attend resident council meetings in an eldercare facility (ECF) if
    • A. You are invited to attend.
    • B. Your superior assigns you to attend.
    • C. You are interested in what the residents are discussing.
    • D. None of the above.
    Correct Answer
    A. You are invited to attend.
  • 39. Which of the following is considered a client’s right?
    • A. Having curtains pulled during personal care
    • B. Having personal information kept confidentially
    • C. Receiving and sending private mail
    • D. All of the above
    Correct Answer
    D. All of the aboveExplanation
    All of the options listed are considered a client’s right. Having curtains pulled during personal care ensures privacy and dignity. Keeping personal information confidentially protects the client’s privacy and maintains trust. Receiving and sending private mail allows the client to maintain communication and personal connections. Therefore, all of these options are considered a client’s right.Rate this question:
  • 40. An ECF resident wishes to wash her own underwear. You should
    • A. Ignore the request.
    • B. Tell her that clothing must go to the laundry.
    • C. Tell her you will do it.
    • D. Help her obtain supplies.
    Correct Answer
    D. Help her obtain supplies.Explanation
    The correct answer is to help her obtain supplies. This is the appropriate response because the resident wants to wash her own underwear, indicating a desire for independence and self-care. By assisting her in obtaining the necessary supplies, you are supporting her autonomy and promoting her well-being.Rate this question:
  • 41. In the long-term-care facility, the family members should be used to
    • A. Leave during treatments.
    • B. Attend care-planning meetings.
    • C. Avoid visiting during mealtimes.
    • D. Help perform client care.
    Correct Answer
    B. Attend care-planning meetings.Explanation
    In a long-term care facility, it is important for family members to attend care-planning meetings. These meetings allow the family members to actively participate in the planning and decision-making process regarding the care and treatment of their loved ones. By attending these meetings, family members can provide valuable input, discuss concerns, and stay informed about the progress and changes in the care plan. This involvement helps in ensuring that the care provided is personalized, comprehensive, and meets the specific needs and preferences of the client.Rate this question:
  • 42. Sexuality in long-term-care clients may include all the following except
    • A. Needing private time with a partner.
    • B. Caring about one’s physical appearance.
    • C. Engaging in public fonding.
    • D. Desiring sexual interaction.
    Correct Answer
    C. Engaging in public fonding.Explanation
    The correct answer is engaging in public fondling. Sexuality in long-term care clients is a normal and important aspect of their lives. It may include needing private time with a partner, caring about one’s physical appearance, and desiring sexual interaction. However, engaging in public fondling is not appropriate or acceptable behavior in any setting, including long-term care facilities. It is important to respect the privacy and dignity of all individuals, including their sexual expression, but within appropriate boundaries.Rate this question:
  • 43. Which statement about some patients with developmental disabilities is correct?
    • A. They usually have no ADL skills.
    • B. They are usually bed bound.
    • C. They can learn but at a slow pace.
    • D. They are dangerous because they are always strong.
    Correct Answer
    C. They can learn but at a slow pace.Explanation
    Patients with developmental disabilities can learn, but they may do so at a slower pace compared to individuals without disabilities. Developmental disabilities can affect cognitive, physical, and/or social functioning, making it more challenging for individuals to acquire new skills or knowledge. However, with appropriate support and interventions, individuals with developmental disabilities can still make progress and learn new things.Rate this question:
  • 44. A goal for an ECF resident is that she not swear at times or aides. When she calls you by your name, your appropriate action is to
    • A. Smile and give the appropriate reward.
    • B. Continue whatever task that is being done.
    • C. Tease the resident about not swearing.
    • D. Tell all of the staff that she didn’t swear.
    Correct Answer
    A. Smile and give the appropriate reward.Explanation
    The appropriate action when an ECF resident calls you by your name is to smile and give the appropriate reward. This indicates a positive reinforcement for the resident’s behavior of not swearing and encourages them to continue behaving in a respectful manner. Teasing the resident about not swearing may be inappropriate and could potentially discourage them from maintaining their goal. Continuing whatever task that is being done is not necessarily the appropriate response in this situation. Telling all of the staff that the resident didn’t swear is not relevant to the resident’s behavior and does not address the appropriate action to take.Rate this question:
  • 45. An agitated resident must be turned every two hours all night long. The first action of the nurse aide when waking up this resident is to
    • A. Turn on the light.
    • B. Speak quietly and calmly.
    • C. Touch her shoulder.
    • D. Shout her name.
    Correct Answer
    B. Speak quietly and calmly.
  • 46. If a client objects to certain food for religious or cultural reasons, the appropriate action would be to
    • A. Tell him to wait for the next meal.
    • B. Offer to substitute something different for him.
    • C. Call the dietician on the next day.
    • D. Tell him he needs to eat what is on his tray.
    Correct Answer
    B. Offer to substitute something different for him.
  • 47. The client’s religion forbids eating pork. Bacon is being served for breakfast. The MOST appropriated response is to
    • A. Encourage the client to eat it because she needs protein.
    • B. Tell the client it is all right since her doctor ordered the diet.
    • C. Call the kitchen for a tray without bacon.
    • D. Tell the client that restrictions don’t pertain in times of illness.
    Correct Answer
    C. Call the kitchen for a tray without bacon.
  • 48. If a client asks a question you cannot answer, the best response is to
    • A. Tell the client you will ask another aide.
    • B. Ask the charge nurse to talk to the client.
    • C. Call the doctor to talk to the client.
    • D. Tell the client that you cannot answer the question.
    Correct Answer
    B. Ask the charge nurse to talk to the client.
  • 49. Before bathing a client, the nursing assistant should
    • A. Close the door and pull the curtain
    • B. Gather a change of clothing
    • C. Check for a doctor’s order
    • D. All of the above
    Correct Answer
    D. All of the aboveExplanation
    The nursing assistant should close the door and pull the curtain before bathing a client to ensure privacy and maintain a comfortable environment. They should also gather a change of clothing for the client to wear after the bath. Additionally, they should check for a doctor’s order to ensure that bathing is safe and appropriate for the client. Therefore, all of the options mentioned are necessary steps that the nursing assistant should take before bathing a client.Rate this question:
  • 50. On entering a room, you notice that the client is not breathing. Your FIRST action should be to
    • A. Call for help.
    • B. Lay the client down on his back.
    • C. Give four qiuck breaths.
    • D. Give 8-10 abdominal thrusts.
    Correct Answer
    A. Call for help.Explanation
    The correct answer is to call for help. When encountering a client who is not breathing, the first and most important action is to call for assistance. This ensures that additional help is on the way to provide further assistance and support. While other actions such as laying the client down, giving breaths, or performing abdominal thrusts may be necessary, they should only be done after help has been summoned.Rate this question:

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