Communication — CNA practice questions

To correct a paper-chart error:

1. Erase the entry neatly and rewrite it so the chart stays legible for the next shift
2. Draw a single line through it, write 'error,' then initial and date the correction
3. Cover the entry with correction fluid and write the accurate information over it
4. Remove the page and start a fresh one, copying the accurate entries onto it

Answer: B — Draw a single line through it, write 'error,' then initial and date the correction

A/C/D) Falsification. B) Correct.

A CNA's primary documentation responsibility is to record:

1. The resident's diagnoses and your opinion about what is causing the change in condition
2. The content of family conversations and the family's views on the plan of care
3. The nurse's assessments and the treatments the nurse performed during your shift
4. Care you provided, vital signs, intake and output, and any change in condition you observed

Answer: D — Care you provided, vital signs, intake and output, and any change in condition you observed

A) Naming a diagnosis or explaining the cause of a change is interpretation, which is outside the aide's scope. B) Family opinions about the plan of care belong to the nurse, not the aide's flow sheet. C) Each person charts their own actions; an aide never documents the nurse's assessments or treatments. D) Correct — the aide records objective, firsthand facts: the care given, the measurements taken, and what was seen or heard.

An aphasic resident (post-stroke) struggles to find words. You should:

1. Supply the word as soon as they hesitate so the conversation keeps moving comfortably
2. Speak louder and more slowly, since stroke often dulls the resident's hearing as well
3. Allow extra time without rushing, and use yes/no questions or a picture board as needed
4. Wait quietly without responding until the resident works the word out entirely on their own

Answer: C — Allow extra time without rushing, and use yes/no questions or a picture board as needed

A) Finishing sentences for the resident is frustrating and discourages further attempts to speak. B) Aphasia is a language problem, not a hearing problem, so raising your voice does not help. C) Correct - unhurried time lets the resident retrieve words, and yes/no questions or a picture board give a way to communicate the message when words will not come. D) Offering no support at all leaves the resident struggling and isolated.

What are defense mechanisms and barriers to communication?

Barriers include jargon, slang, changing the subject, giving advice, false reassurance, and asking why. They block honest exchange and should be avoided.

What is an open-ended question, and why use it?

A question that cannot be answered with yes or no, such as "How are you feeling today?" It encourages the resident to share more information.

Communicating with visually-impaired residents?

Identify yourself when entering. Describe location + actions. Don't move belongings without asking. Touch arm before approaching.

Name the three parts of the basic communication process.

A sender, a message, and a receiver, plus feedback that confirms the message was understood.