Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Which factors can affect sleep that the nursing assistant can help control?

1. Medications: dosage, frequency, and type

2. Activity level during the day

3. Environment: noise, light, temperature, and reporting the resident has pain promptly

4. Diet: number of meals in a day

The correct answer is: Environment: noise, light, temperature, and reporting the resident has pain promptly

The correct answer is centered on the various environmental factors that directly impact a person's ability to sleep soundly. Elements such as noise, light, and temperature can dramatically affect sleep quality. For instance, excessive noise from external sources can prevent a resident from falling asleep or lead to frequent awakenings. Similarly, an environment that is too hot or too cold can make it difficult for a person to get comfortable enough to sleep. Additionally, the mention of reporting any pain that a resident may experience is crucial. Pain can be a significant barrier to restful sleep. By promptly addressing any discomfort, a nursing assistant can help create an environment that is more conducive to sleep. While medications absolutely play a role in sleep quality, alongside the dosage, frequency, and type, nursing assistants typically have limited control over these factors as they are primarily managed by licensed healthcare providers. On the other hand, activity level relates to the amount and type of physical engagement during the day, which can influence sleep, but does not encompass the more immediate and controllable aspects of sleep hygiene. Lastly, dietary habits, including the number of meals, can play a role in sleep patterns, but the environmental factors are generally more directly actionable by nursing assistants in a caregiving setting.