Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

In terms of resident care, what should a CNA prioritize during their shift?

1. Completing all tasks before speaking with residents

2. Building rapport with residents through conversation

3. Assessing and addressing immediate resident needs

4. Reading the resident's previous medical history

The correct answer is: Assessing and addressing immediate resident needs

Prioritizing assessing and addressing immediate resident needs is crucial for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) because it directly impacts the health, safety, and comfort of the residents under their care. Residents may have various needs, such as assistance with daily activities, medication reminders, or emotional support. By focusing on these immediate needs, a CNA ensures that residents receive timely care, which can prevent complications and enhance their overall well-being. In this context, while building rapport with residents through conversation is important for fostering a positive environment, it should complement the primary focus on their immediate needs rather than take precedence over them. Similarly, completing tasks before engaging with residents can lead to neglecting important aspects of direct care. Reading the resident's previous medical history, although valuable for understanding their background, does not take precedence over addressing current needs and situations that require immediate attention. Hence, the most effective approach for a CNA is to prioritize resident care by first assessing and responding to what each resident requires at that moment.