California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Before moving a resident up in bed, what is the first action you should take?

1. Put nonskid footwear on the resident

2. Lock the bed wheels

3. Apply a transfer belt

4. Raise the head of the bed

The correct answer is: Lock the bed wheels

The first action to take before moving a resident up in bed is to lock the bed wheels. Locking the wheels ensures that the bed remains stable and secure during the process of repositioning the resident. Stability is crucial to prevent accidents or injuries to both the resident and the nursing assistant. By ensuring the bed does not move unexpectedly, you create a safe environment for conducting the task at hand. In the context of the other actions, while applying nonskid footwear, a transfer belt, or raising the head of the bed may be important steps in the overall procedure, they should follow the locking of the bed. These actions contribute to the safety and comfort of the resident but are not the initial critical step needed to set up a safe moving process.