Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What condition should a nurse aide report immediately regarding a resident with a hand splint?

1. The resident expresses discomfort

2. The resident's fingers are cold and blue in color or purple

3. The splint appears damaged

4. The splint was not put on correctly

The correct answer is: The resident's fingers are cold and blue in color or purple

The presence of cold and blue or purple coloration in the resident's fingers is an immediate concern that requires prompt reporting. This condition may indicate impaired circulation, which can lead to serious complications if not addressed quickly. Significantly, changes in temperature and color can be signs of restricted blood flow, tissue damage, or even potential loss of limb function. Timely intervention by healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure the resident's safety and prevent any further deterioration of their condition. While discomfort, damage to the splint, or incorrect application of the splint may warrant attention and correction, the immediate concern is the potential for acute vascular issues suggested by the abnormal coloration and temperature in the fingers. Thus, prioritizing reports of these symptoms aligns with the CNA's responsibility to safeguard resident health and react to emergency situations efficiently.