Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

While helping a resident with grooming, the assistant notices a rash on the resident's back. What should the assistant do?

1. Ignore the rash

2. Apply lotion to the rash

3. Report the rash to the nurse

4. Ask the resident about their rash

The correct answer is: Report the rash to the nurse

The appropriate action in this scenario is to report the rash to the nurse. Recognizing and addressing changes in a resident’s condition is a key responsibility for a certified nursing assistant, as they are often the first to observe such changes. The nurse has the training and authority to assess the rash further and determine if treatment is needed. While it might seem helpful to apply lotion or inquire directly about the rash, these actions could potentially overlook the need for professional assessment and intervention. Nurses are responsible for making clinical decisions, so reporting the observation allows for a proper evaluation and ensures that the resident receives appropriate care. Ignoring the rash would not serve the resident's health needs and could lead to complications that might have been prevented with timely intervention.