Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What is the nurse aide's initial response if hot tea splashes on a resident's hand?

1. Apply ice to the burn

2. Wet a cloth with cool water and place it against the injured area

3. Inform the charge nurse about the incident

4. Use a heating pad for pain relief

The correct answer is: Wet a cloth with cool water and place it against the injured area

When a resident experiences a burn from hot tea, the nurse aide’s priority is to cool the affected area to minimize damage and alleviate pain. Placing a damp cloth with cool water against the burn helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and may prevent further injury. Cool water is effective in soothing the burn area and can help lessen inflammation. Applying ice directly to the burn can cause additional damage to the skin, as it may lead to frostbite. Informing the charge nurse about the incident is important but should occur after addressing the immediate needs of the resident; it is not the first action to take. Using a heating pad is contraindicated, as heat would worsen the burn rather than provide relief. Therefore, cooling the burn with a wet cloth is the most appropriate initial response.