California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What should the nursing assistant do if asked to perform a task they do not know how to do?

1. Attempt it without assistance

2. Tell the nurse they are uncertain and ask for help

3. Ignore the request

4. Ask a co-worker for advice

The correct answer is: Tell the nurse they are uncertain and ask for help

When a nursing assistant is unsure how to perform a task they have been asked to do, it is crucial to communicate this uncertainty to the nurse and ask for guidance. This approach ensures that the task is completed safely and appropriately, as the nurse can provide clear instructions, demonstrate the procedure, or potentially assign the task to someone more qualified. Choosing this course of action reflects a commitment to patient safety and professional integrity. It acknowledges that the assistant recognizes their limits and values the importance of proper training and supervision in the healthcare environment. This proactive communication helps prevent potential errors that could arise from attempting a task without the necessary knowledge or experience. In the context of the other choices, attempting the task without assistance could lead to mistakes that might endanger patient safety or health. Ignoring the request is not appropriate as it fails to address the responsibility of the assistant to ensure care is provided. Asking a co-worker for advice might seem helpful, but it is more effective to go directly to a supervising nurse who has the authority and expertise to provide the correct instructions or support.