Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What type of cream is used by CNAs to prevent skin breakdown after caring for incontinent residents?

1. Moisturizing cream

2. Barrier cream

3. Aloe vera gel

4. Therapeutic ointment

The correct answer is: Barrier cream

Barrier cream is specifically designed to protect the skin by providing a physical barrier that shields it from moisture, irritants, and friction. This is particularly important for incontinent residents who are at a higher risk of skin breakdown due to exposure to urine and feces. Barrier creams typically contain ingredients like zinc oxide that form a protective layer on the skin, helping to prevent irritation and the development of pressure ulcers or dermatitis. In contrast, moisturizing creams are intended to hydrate the skin but do not offer the protective qualities needed for vulnerable areas affected by incontinence. Aloe vera gel is beneficial for soothing irritated skin but does not function as a barrier to prevent breakdown. Therapeutic ointments may provide healing properties for existing skin issues but do not act proactively to prevent skin damage in the first place. Thus, using barrier cream is the most effective approach in this scenario to maintain skin integrity for those at risk due to incontinence.