Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

If a resident's breathing becomes faster and she feels tired while getting dressed, what should be the nurse aide's first action?

1. Change the resident's position

2. Go to find a nurse to check the resident

3. Encourage the resident to take deep breaths

4. Provide additional rest time

The correct answer is: Go to find a nurse to check the resident

When a resident exhibits rapid breathing and fatigue while getting dressed, the priority is to ensure their safety and well-being. The correct action involves assessing the situation further, which includes alerting a nurse who has the training and authority to evaluate and respond to potential medical concerns. Getting a nurse is crucial because these symptoms could indicate an underlying medical condition that may require immediate professional attention, such as a respiratory issue or a cardiovascular concern. The nurse can perform a more comprehensive assessment, including checking vital signs and determining if any urgent intervention is necessary. While other actions like changing the resident’s position, encouraging deep breaths, or providing additional rest time may be beneficial in certain contexts, they do not address the need for immediate assessment by a healthcare professional. The nurse aide's responsibility here is to recognize symptoms that may require further evaluation and to act accordingly by seeking assistance from a nurse. This approach ensures that the resident receives the appropriate level of care and intervention based on their specific needs at that time.