Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What are the daily care responsibilities for a nursing assistant for someone with a catheter?

1. Changing the catheter every week

2. Cleaning the area around the urethral opening and emptying the drainage bag

3. Monitoring fluid intake only

4. Only providing emotional support

The correct answer is: Cleaning the area around the urethral opening and emptying the drainage bag

The daily care responsibilities for a nursing assistant for someone with a catheter primarily include cleaning the area around the urethral opening and emptying the drainage bag. This is essential for preventing infections and ensuring the catheter functions properly. Cleaning the area helps maintain hygiene and reduces the risk of urinary tract infections, which patients with catheters are particularly susceptible to. By keeping the area clean and dry, the nursing assistant plays a vital role in the patient's overall health and comfort. Additionally, regularly emptying the drainage bag is critical, as it prevents overfilling, which can lead to discomfort or complications. The other choices do not encompass the necessary daily tasks required for proper catheter care. For instance, changing the catheter weekly is not adequate, as this task is typically performed according to a physician's orders or facility protocols, which may vary. Monitoring fluid intake alone does not address the hands-on care needed for catheter maintenance, and solely providing emotional support does not fulfill the physical care requirements associated with catheter use.