The Ultimate STNA Exam Practice Test

Gloves should be worn for emptying a urinary drainage bag to prevent the risk of infection and cross-contamination. Urinary drainage bags contain urine, which may contain bacteria or other pathogens. Wearing gloves helps to protect both the caregiver and the resident from potential infections. Additionally, gloves provide a barrier to prevent the spread of any bodily fluids that may be present in the drainage bag.

When a resident is expressing anger, it is important for the nurse aide to listen closely to the resident's concerns. This allows the nurse aide to understand the underlying issues that are causing the resident's anger. By actively listening, the nurse aide can gather important information that can help address the resident's concerns and find a solution to the problem. It also shows the resident that their feelings are being acknowledged and validated, which can help to de-escalate the anger and build a trusting relationship between the resident and the nurse aide.

The best response by the nurse aide is to understand that the resident is grieving and give him chances to talk. This response acknowledges the resident's emotional state and offers support by providing opportunities for him to express his feelings. It shows empathy and compassion towards the resident during this difficult time.

The correct answer is to wait a while and then ask the resident again. This is the appropriate approach because it respects the resident's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own care. It allows the resident some time to reconsider their decision and may provide an opportunity for the nurse aide to address any concerns or fears the resident may have. Offering a bribe, making derogatory comments, or using the nursing home policy as a means of coercion are all inappropriate and disrespectful approaches.

In this situation, the nurse aide should step back to protect themselves from harm while speaking in a calm manner. This response prioritizes the safety of the nurse aide, as they should not put themselves at risk of physical harm. By stepping back, they create distance between themselves and the combative resident, reducing the likelihood of being hit. Speaking in a calm manner can help de-escalate the situation and potentially calm the resident down. It is important for the nurse aide to prioritize their own safety while still attempting to maintain a respectful and calm approach.

When the resident denies the doctor's diagnosis and claims there is a mistake, the nurse aide should understand that denial is a normal reaction. Denial is a common defense mechanism used by individuals when faced with difficult or distressing information, such as a terminal illness. It is important for the nurse aide to empathize with the resident's denial and provide support and understanding during this challenging time.

Slurred speech is considered a possible warning sign of a stroke because it indicates a disruption in the brain's ability to control speech and language functions. During a stroke, blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to damage in certain areas. This can affect the communication pathways in the brain, resulting in difficulties with speech production and articulation. Slurred speech may be characterized by a slow or mumbled speech pattern, difficulty pronouncing words, or a change in the rhythm and tone of speech. It is important to recognize this symptom as it can help in early detection and prompt medical intervention.

The resident's behavior suggests that she is experiencing confusion and distress because she cannot find her doll, which she treats as her baby. Offering comfort to the resident and helping her search for her "baby" is the most appropriate response in this situation. This approach shows empathy and understanding towards the resident's emotional attachment to the doll, and it helps to alleviate her distress. Additionally, assisting in searching for the doll may help the resident feel supported and reassured.

The best response by the nurse aide is to ask a nurse to watch the nurse aide change the bag since it is the first time. This is the most appropriate action because the nurse aide has not done this procedure before and it is important to have guidance and supervision from an experienced nurse to ensure that it is done correctly and safely. Asking for help only if the nurse aide has problems may not be sufficient, as mistakes or complications can arise during the procedure that the nurse aide may not be aware of.

The best response by the nurse aide is to remain calm and ask what is upsetting the resident. This approach shows empathy and understanding towards the resident's emotions and allows the nurse aide to address the underlying issue. It is important to assess the situation and communicate with the resident in order to find a solution or provide appropriate support. Scolding the resident or removing them from the dining room immediately may escalate the situation further and create a negative atmosphere. Removing the resident's belongings may also be seen as punitive and not address the root cause of the behavior.

When giving a backrub, it is important for the nurse aide to keep the resident covered as much as possible. This is because maintaining the resident's privacy and dignity is crucial during the procedure. By keeping the resident covered, the nurse aide ensures that the resident feels comfortable and secure throughout the backrub. Additionally, covering the resident also helps to maintain their body temperature and prevent any unnecessary exposure.

A gait or transfer belt is put around the resident's waist to provide a way for the nurse aide to hold onto the resident while walking. This belt helps to ensure the safety and stability of the resident during the walking process. It allows the nurse aide to have a firm grip on the resident, preventing falls or accidents.

When providing foot care to a resident, it is important for the nurse aide to check the feet for skin breakdown. This is because skin breakdown can lead to pressure ulcers or other infections, which can be very serious for the resident. By regularly checking the feet for any signs of redness, blisters, cuts, or sores, the nurse aide can identify any potential issues early on and take appropriate action to prevent further complications. This ensures the resident's feet are kept healthy and free from any potential problems.

In this situation, the resident is confused and keeps trying to grab a hairbrush while the nurse aide is trying to dress them. Giving the resident the hairbrush to hold can help distract them and keep them occupied, making it easier for the nurse aide to complete the dressing task. This allows the resident to feel a sense of control and involvement, reducing their agitation and making the dressing process smoother. Restraining the resident's hand may escalate the situation and cause distress, while putting the hairbrush away and trying to dress the resident more quickly may not address the underlying issue of the resident's desire for the hairbrush.

When a person is admitted to a nursing home, it is common for them to experience a sense of loss related to the life change. Moving to a nursing home often means leaving behind their familiar home, belongings, and independence. They may feel a loss of control over their life and a sense of grief for the life they had before. This emotional adjustment can be difficult for the resident and may require support and understanding from the nurse aide.

Residents with Parkinson's disease often require assistance with walking because they have a shuffling walk and tremors. Parkinson's disease affects the motor system, causing stiffness, tremors, and a shuffling gait. These symptoms can make it difficult for individuals to walk independently and maintain balance.

Having a finding for resident neglect would affect a nurse aide's status on the state's nurse aide registry and also cause the nurse to be ineligible to work in a nursing home. This is because resident neglect is a serious violation of patient care and safety, and it goes against the ethical and professional standards expected of a nurse aide. The nurse aide's ability to provide proper care and ensure the well-being of residents is compromised, making them unfit to work in a nursing home setting.

The correct answer is to enter the room immediately to provide for the resident's safety. This is the appropriate action because witnessing abuse or harm being inflicted on a resident requires immediate intervention to ensure the resident's well-being. Waiting to confront the nurse aide or checking for signs of injury after the nurse aide leaves the room would delay addressing the immediate safety concern. Contacting the state agency that inspects the nursing facility may be necessary later to report the incident, but the resident's safety should be the priority in this situation.

Standard precautions are a set of infection control practices used to prevent the transmission of germs. These precautions should be used for all residents, regardless of their diagnosis or infection status. Wearing gloves to remove a resident's bedpan is the correct application of standard precautions, as it prevents contact with bodily fluids and reduces the risk of infection transmission.

It is important to remove the hearing aid before showering to prevent any damage to the device. Water can cause the hearing aid to malfunction or stop working completely. Therefore, it is necessary to take it off before showering to ensure its longevity and proper functioning.

When a sink has hand-control faucets, it is important for the nurse aide to maintain proper hygiene and prevent the spread of germs. Using a paper towel to turn the water off is recommended because it provides a barrier between the nurse aide's hands and the faucet handle, reducing the risk of contamination. By using a paper towel, the nurse aide can avoid touching the faucet directly, which may be contaminated with bacteria or other pathogens. This helps maintain a clean and safe environment for both the nurse aide and the patients.

The resident's weight is obtained routinely as a way to check their nutrition and health. Weight can be an indicator of overall health and can provide information about the resident's nutritional status. Changes in weight can indicate changes in appetite, dietary intake, and overall well-being. Monitoring weight regularly allows healthcare providers to identify any potential issues with nutrition or health and make necessary interventions or adjustments to the resident's care plan.

The right to make decisions and participate in one's own care is included in the Resident's Bill of Rights. This means that residents have the right to be involved in decisions about their medical treatment, daily activities, and overall care. They have the right to give informed consent, refuse treatment, and have their preferences and choices respected. This ensures that residents have autonomy and control over their own lives while residing in a facility.

In this situation, the resident's impending death indicates that their physical comfort should be the primary focus of nursing care. This includes ensuring that they are free from pain, discomfort, and any other distressing symptoms. Providing for their comfort may involve administering pain medication, adjusting their position to relieve pressure, and offering emotional support. While supporting the resident through the stages of grief and providing privacy are important aspects of end-of-life care, they are secondary to ensuring the resident's comfort in this particular scenario. Maintaining the resident's care routine, such as for bathing, may not be a priority when their comfort is at stake.

The nurse aide should prioritize the safety of the resident being bathed and immediately go check the door when the nearby alarm goes off. This is important as it could indicate a potential emergency or security breach, and the nurse aide needs to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Waiting for the alarm to stop or reporting it to the charge nurse may waste valuable time and potentially put the resident at risk. Stopping the bed bath and checking on the location of all assigned residents is also important, but ensuring the safety of the resident being bathed takes precedence in this situation.

Residents who are restrained are at a greater risk of developing pressure sores. This is because restraints can limit the resident's ability to move and change positions, leading to prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body. Pressure sores, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin. These pressure sores can be painful, difficult to treat, and can even lead to serious complications such as infection. Therefore, residents who are restrained are at a higher risk of developing pressure sores.

When trying to communicate with a resident who speaks a different language, using pictures and gestures is the most effective method. This allows the nurse aide to visually convey information, making it easier for the resident to understand. It eliminates the language barrier and promotes clear communication. This approach is more practical than assuming that repeating words often or relying on the resident's nodding will ensure understanding. Additionally, facing the resident and speaking softly may not be as helpful as using visual aids.

The correct answer is to leave residents' beds at the lowest level when care is complete. This is because lowering the bed to the lowest level reduces the risk of falls for the residents. It makes it easier for them to get in and out of bed safely and minimizes the distance they would fall if they accidentally roll out of bed. Keeping the bed at a low level promotes resident safety and helps prevent falls.

The question "What are your favorite foods?" is most likely to encourage conversation because it prompts the resident to share their personal preferences and opinions. This question invites the resident to talk about their tastes and experiences, which can lead to a more engaging and interactive conversation compared to the other options provided.

The nurse aide's job of participating in resident care planning conferences involves collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized care plans for residents. This task requires the nurse aide to actively contribute to discussions about the residents' needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring that their care is tailored to their specific requirements. By participating in these conferences, the nurse aide plays a vital role in promoting effective communication and coordination of care among the healthcare team, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to the residents.

A slipknot is a type of knot that can be easily untied by pulling on the loose end. This allows for quick removal of the restraint when needed, such as in case of an emergency or when the resident needs to be repositioned or assisted with personal care. The other options do not specifically relate to the purpose of a slipknot, which is to provide a secure yet easily removable restraint.

Adequate fluid intake helps to prevent constipation because it keeps the stool soft and easy to pass. When a person is inactive, their bowel movements may become sluggish, leading to constipation. Drinking enough fluids helps to keep the digestive system hydrated and functioning properly, preventing constipation.

When a resident is lying in bed and suddenly becomes short of breath, raising the head of the bed can help improve their breathing. This position, known as Fowler's position, allows for better lung expansion and can relieve breathing difficulties. Asking the resident to take deep breaths may not be effective if they are already struggling to breathe. Taking vital signs may be important, but it is not the immediate action needed to address the resident's shortness of breath. Elevating the resident's feet would not be helpful in this situation.

Shakiness is a common sign of low blood sugar in individuals with diabetes. When blood sugar levels drop, the body releases stress hormones to increase blood sugar. These hormones can cause shakiness, trembling, or feeling lightheaded. This is because the brain relies on glucose as its main source of energy, and when glucose levels are low, the brain does not function properly, leading to shakiness. Fever, thirst, and vomiting are not typically associated with low blood sugar levels.

Frequent coughing while eating can be a sign that the resident is having difficulty swallowing, which can indicate dysphagia. This condition requires attention to prevent choking and ensure the resident's safety during meals.

The correct answer is to ask if the resident realizes that the shoes do not match. This response shows empathy and respect for the resident's autonomy by acknowledging their choice of attire. It also allows the nurse aide to gently bring attention to the mismatched shoes, which may be a sign of confusion or cognitive decline. By asking if the resident realizes the shoes do not match, the nurse aide can assess the resident's awareness and provide appropriate assistance if needed.

As individuals age, it is common for the bladder to hold less urine. This is due to a decrease in the bladder's capacity and a weakening of the muscles that control urine flow. This age-related change can result in increased frequency of urination and a decreased ability to hold urine for long periods of time. It is important to note that while this is considered a normal age-related change, it is still important to monitor and manage any urinary issues to ensure overall health and well-being.

The nurse aide should consider the resident's cultural background before offering comfort to a crying resident. Cultural background plays a significant role in how individuals express and perceive emotions. Different cultures have varying norms and expectations regarding emotional expression and comfort. By considering the resident's cultural background, the nurse aide can ensure that their approach to offering comfort is sensitive and respectful, taking into account any cultural preferences or practices that may influence the resident's response to emotional distress.

The correct answer is to check for kinks in the tubing. This is the first step the nurse aide should take because a kink in the tubing could be obstructing the flow of urine and preventing it from draining into the bag. By checking for kinks and ensuring that the tubing is properly connected and unobstructed, the nurse aide can address the issue and promote proper urine drainage. Asking the resident to try urinating or offering fluid intake may not be effective if there is a problem with the tubing. Obtaining a new urinary drainage bag would be unnecessary if the issue is with the tubing.

The nurse aide should replace the foreskin when pushed back to cleanse an uncircumcised penis. This is important because the foreskin should be returned to its original position after cleansing to prevent discomfort or injury to the resident. Failure to replace the foreskin can lead to complications such as paraphimosis, where the foreskin becomes trapped behind the glans and causes swelling and pain. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse aide to ensure proper hygiene and care of the uncircumcised penis during perineal care.

The correct answer is to have a schedule for toileting. Bladder retraining programs typically involve establishing a regular schedule for toileting to help the resident regain control over their bladder function. This involves setting specific times for the resident to use the bathroom, gradually increasing the time intervals between bathroom visits, and encouraging the resident to hold their urine for longer periods. This helps to retrain the bladder muscles and improve bladder control. Fluid intake restrictions, wearing incontinent briefs, or having an indwelling urinary catheter are not typically part of a bladder retraining program.

Range of motion (ROM) exercises are often performed during activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing or dressing. This means that individuals can incorporate movements that help maintain or improve their joint flexibility and muscle strength while performing these routine activities. By doing so, ROM exercises can help enhance mobility, prevent joint stiffness, and improve overall physical function. It is important to note that ROM exercises can be done multiple times throughout the day and are not limited to just once a day. Additionally, while ROM exercises have various benefits, preventing strokes and paralysis is not specifically attributed to these exercises.

Washing the resident's hands before feeding is important because the resident may still touch his/her mouth or food. This helps to prevent the spread of germs and reduces the risk of contamination. Maintaining proper hygiene and ensuring that the resident's hands are clean is crucial to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and maintain a safe and healthy environment.

The correct answer suggests that when moving a resident up in bed who is able to move with assistance, the nurse aide should bend the resident's knees and ask the resident to push with his/her feet. This technique helps to engage the resident's muscles and allows them to actively participate in the movement, promoting independence and maintaining their strength. Using the resident's own strength to push themselves up also reduces the strain on the nurse aide's back and minimizes the risk of injury.

The best response by the nurse aide is to ask the resident about his job and if he is hungry. This response shows empathy and understanding towards the resident's confusion and needs. By asking about his job, the nurse aide acknowledges the resident's desire to go to work and engages in conversation to redirect his attention. Additionally, asking if he is hungry addresses his immediate need for breakfast and allows the nurse aide to provide appropriate assistance or alternatives.

The nurse aide should first assist a resident that has called for assistance to get off the toilet. This is the most immediate and urgent task that requires immediate attention to ensure the safety and comfort of the resident. It is important for the nurse aide to prioritize the needs of the residents and respond promptly to their requests for assistance.

A resting respiratory rate of 32 breaths per minute is significantly higher than the normal range for adults, which is typically 12-20 breaths per minute. This could indicate respiratory distress or other serious conditions that require immediate attention. The other sets of vital signs, although they may show slight variations due to different activities, do not indicate immediate danger or abnormality as clearly as the elevated resting respiratory rate does.

A resident who has stress incontinence may leak urine when laughing or coughing. Stress incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when there is pressure or stress on the bladder, such as during laughing, coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects. This can cause the muscles that control urine flow to weaken, leading to leakage. It is not necessary for the resident to have an indwelling urinary catheter, wear an incontinent brief at night, or need toileting every 1-2 hours throughout the day.

The correct method for measuring a patient's radial pulse is to use the index and middle fingers to press lightly on the patient's wrist, where the radial artery is located, and count the beats for one full minute. Using the thumb is incorrect because it has its own pulse, which can interfere with accurate measurement. Counting for less than a full minute can also lead to inaccuracies. The other options either describe incorrect locations or methods for measuring the radial pulse.

Incontinence of urine can lead to prolonged exposure of the skin to moisture, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth and infection, increasing the risk of urinary tract infection.