Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What is the most important task for a CNA when receiving assignments from the charge nurse?

1. Check to see if any residents are sleeping

2. Socialize with assigned residents

3. Check all assigned residents for immediate needs

4. Document the assigned care plans

The correct answer is: Check all assigned residents for immediate needs

The primary responsibility of a Certified Nursing Assistant when receiving assignments from the charge nurse is to check all assigned residents for immediate needs. This task is essential because it ensures that residents receive timely care and attention based on their current health status. Addressing immediate needs may involve evaluating vital signs, checking for discomfort, or providing assistance with activities of daily living. Promptly assessing residents can prevent complications and promote their well-being while ensuring that any urgent issues are addressed before they escalate. This proactive approach is foundational in a healthcare setting, as it upholds the quality of care and supports the nursing staff's overall efforts to maintain the safety and health of all residents. While the other options serve important roles in a CNA's duties, they do not prioritize the immediate assessment and care required for the residents upon receiving assignments. Checking on sleeping residents, socializing with residents, and documenting care plans, while valuable, should follow the critical assessment of immediate needs to ensure that the residents’ health and safety are prioritized.