Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What should a CNA do upon noticing a resident's great toe is red and swollen during bathing?

1. Report the observation to the charge nurse

2. Ignore the observation

3. Clean the toe with antiseptic

4. Inform the resident about the toe

The correct answer is: Report the observation to the charge nurse

Reporting the observation to the charge nurse is crucial because it ensures that a professional trained in medical assessment can evaluate the situation further. Redness and swelling of a toe can indicate various issues, such as infection, inflammation, or circulation problems, which require medical attention. The CNA’s role is to assist and monitor residents, and any significant changes in their condition should be communicated to the healthcare team. By reporting these findings, the CNA contributes to the continuity of care and supports the resident's health by enabling timely intervention. Taking this action can potentially prevent complications and ensure that appropriate treatment is initiated. The other options do not provide a proper response to a potentially serious condition, emphasizing the importance of communication in healthcare settings.