Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

When providing a bed bath, what part of the patient's body should the nursing assistant wash last?

1. Head and neck

2. Arms and hands

3. Legs and feet

4. Perineum

The correct answer is: Perineum

The correct choice is to wash the perineum last during a bed bath. This is due to the fact that the perineum is considered a more sensitive area and has a higher risk for contamination. By washing this area last, it minimizes the chances of spreading bacteria from the perineum to other parts of the body, maintaining hygienic practices. Additionally, washing the perineum last allows the nursing assistant to focus on cleanliness and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to maintain the patient's dignity and comfort. It is customary to wash the more clean areas of the body first, gradually moving to the more soiled areas, and ending with the perineum aligns with infection control protocols. For context, the head and neck, arms and hands, and legs and feet are washed earlier in the process because they do not pose the same level of contamination risk. This practice promotes a thorough and respectful bed bathing routine for patients.