California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What should a CNA do if they notice new bruises on a resident?

1. Report the bruises to the licensed nurse

2. Ask family members the next time they visit

3. Say nothing to the resident about the bruises

4. Wait to see if it happens again

The correct answer is: Report the bruises to the licensed nurse

When a CNA notices new bruises on a resident, the appropriate action is to report the bruises to the licensed nurse. This is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, new bruises may indicate an injury or potential abuse that needs to be assessed and addressed by a healthcare professional. Prompt reporting ensures that the licensed nurse can investigate the cause of the bruises, monitor the resident’s health, and take any necessary actions to ensure the resident’s safety. Additionally, reporting allows for proper documentation in the resident’s medical records, which is essential for ongoing care and legal compliance. The licensed nurse can then develop a plan of care that may include further observations, medical evaluations, and communication with other healthcare providers if necessary. Other actions, such as asking family members or discussing the bruises with the resident, could lead to misinformation or delay necessary medical attention. Similarly, waiting to see if the bruises occur again poses a risk to the resident’s welfare as it may prevent timely intervention. Therefore, immediate reporting to a licensed nurse is the correct course of action.