Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What should a CNA do first when entering a room and finding a trash can on fire?

1. Call the emergency services

2. Lie down on the floor to avoid smoke

3. Remove the resident from the room

4. Try to extinguish the fire with water

The correct answer is: Remove the resident from the room

When a CNA encounters a fire, especially one as serious as a trash can on fire, the paramount concern is the safety of the residents. The first action should be to ensure that any individuals in the room are removed to a safe location, away from the fire and potential smoke inhalation. This aligns with the fundamental principles of fire safety, which prioritize the protection of life above all else. In this scenario, the act of removing the resident from the room serves to eliminate immediate danger to their health and safety. Once the resident is safely away from the fire, other actions, such as calling emergency services or attempting to extinguish the fire, can be taken. It is important to remember that in emergencies, especially those involving fire, the safety of people is the first priority, and all other actions should follow after ensuring their well-being.