Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What is one of the main responsibilities of a nursing assistant when caring for a patient?

1. Administer medications

2. Provide mouth care

3. Schedule medical appointments

4. Perform diagnostic testing

The correct answer is: Provide mouth care

Providing mouth care is a primary responsibility of a nursing assistant when caring for a patient. This task involves helping patients maintain good oral hygiene, which is essential for their overall health and comfort. Proper mouth care can prevent issues such as dry mouth, infections, tooth decay, and other dental problems, especially in patients who are unable to perform these tasks independently due to medical conditions or mobility restrictions. Nursing assistants are often the ones who interact closely with patients on a daily basis, making them well-positioned to observe and address any oral health issues that might arise. By assisting with mouth care, they contribute to the patient's dignity and well-being, fostering a more comfortable living environment. In contrast, administering medications typically falls under the purview of licensed nurses or physicians, as it requires special training and a license. Scheduling medical appointments is often handled by administrative staff, while performing diagnostic testing usually requires specific qualifications and training that nursing assistants do not possess. Therefore, mouth care is clearly defined as a core duty for nursing assistants in delivering holistic patient care.