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Nurse Aide Written Exam TMU IOWA

Question 1 of 70

A resident complains of dizziness when standing up. What should the nursing assistant do first?

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Nurse Aide Written Exam TMU IOWA Practice Questions

Review these Nurse Aide Written Exam TMU IOWA nursing practice questions with answer choices and explanations.

Question 1

A resident complains of dizziness when standing up. What should the nursing assistant do first?

  1. Help the resident sit back down
  2. Tell the resident to walk slowly
  3. Give the resident water
  4. Ignore the complaint
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. Help the resident sit back down

Explanation: Dizziness when standing can indicate orthostatic hypotension or risk of falling. The immediate priority is resident safety, so the CNA should help the resident sit or lie down to prevent a fall and then notify the nurse.

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of an Activity of Daily Living (ADL)?

  1. Reading a book
  2. Bathing
  3. Watching television
  4. Playing cards
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. Bathing

Explanation: ADLs are basic personal care tasks needed for everyday functioning, such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and grooming.

Question 3

The normal adult respiration rate is approximately

  1. 8–10 breaths per minute
  2. 12–20 breaths per minute
  3. 24–30 breaths per minute
  4. 30–40 breaths per minute
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. 12–20 breaths per minute

Explanation: A normal adult respiration rate ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Rates outside this range may indicate a medical issue and should be reported.

Question 4

When transferring a resident, the nursing assistant should

  1. twist at the waist
  2. keep the resident away from the body
  3. keep the back straight and bend the knees
  4. lock the knees while lifting
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. keep the back straight and bend the knees

Explanation: Proper body mechanics include bending at the knees, keeping the back straight, and holding the resident close to avoid injury.

Question 5

The best way to prevent infection is

  1. wearing gloves
  2. washing hands
  3. wearing a mask
  4. using hand sanitizer only
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. washing hands

Explanation: Handwashing is the most effective method for preventing infection transmission in healthcare settings.

Question 6

A resident who cannot speak is able to communicate best with

  1. ignoring them
  2. communication boards or gestures
  3. yelling questions
  4. speaking very fast
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. communication boards or gestures

Explanation: Residents who cannot speak can communicate using nonverbal methods, such as communication boards, gestures, or writing.

Question 7

When making a resident's bed with the resident in it, the procedure is called

  1. surgical bed
  2. unoccupied bed
  3. occupied bed
  4. recovery bed
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. occupied bed

Explanation: An occupied bed is made when the resident remains in bed during the process.

Question 8

Which food is highest in protein?

  1. Bread
  2. Chicken
  3. Apple
  4. Rice
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. Chicken

Explanation: Protein helps build and repair body tissues. Meat, poultry, eggs, beans, and fish are high-protein foods.

Question 9

A resident who is bedridden should be repositioned at least every

  1. 30 minutes
  2. 2 hours
  3. 4 hours
  4. 8 hours
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. 2 hours

Explanation: Turning residents every two hours helps prevent pressure ulcers (bedsores) and improves circulation.

Question 10

A pulse is normally taken on the

  1. wrist
  2. ankle
  3. forehead
  4. shoulder
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. wrist

Explanation: The radial pulse located on the wrist is the most common pulse site used by CNAs.

Question 11

A resident who cannot control urine is

  1. incontinent
  2. independent
  3. dependent
  4. ambulatory
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. incontinent

Explanation: Incontinence refers to the inability to control bladder or bowel function.

Question 12

Which device is used to assist residents when walking?

  1. walker
  2. thermometer
  3. bedpan
  4. catheter
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. walker

Explanation: A walker provides support and balance for residents who have difficulty walking.

Question 13

Which sign may indicate a pressure sore?

  1. redness that does not fade
  2. dry hair
  3. sweating
  4. hunger
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. redness that does not fade

Explanation: Persistent redness may be the first stage of a pressure ulcer and should be reported.

Question 14

A resident with hearing loss communicates best when the CNA

  1. shouts loudly
  2. faces the resident while speaking
  3. turns away while speaking
  4. speaks quickly
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. faces the resident while speaking

Explanation: Facing the resident allows them to see facial expressions and read lips, improving communication.

Question 15

Which body system pumps blood through the body?

  1. respiratory
  2. circulatory
  3. digestive
  4. nervous
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. circulatory

Explanation: The circulatory system includes the heart, blood, and blood vessels, which circulate oxygen and nutrients.

Question 16

When a resident refuses care, the nursing assistant should

  1. force the resident
  2. report it to the nurse
  3. ignore the resident
  4. threaten the resident
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. report it to the nurse

Explanation: Residents have the right to refuse care, and the CNA should respect the decision and notify the nurse.

Question 17

A resident with diabetes must have their

  1. hair washed daily
  2. blood sugar monitored
  3. nails painted
  4. hearing checked
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. blood sugar monitored

Explanation: Diabetes affects blood glucose levels, which must be monitored regularly.

Question 18

The purpose of a gait belt is to

  1. restrain the resident
  2. assist with transfers and walking
  3. measure waist size
  4. hold clothing
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. assist with transfers and walking

Explanation: A gait belt helps caregivers safely support residents during transfers or ambulation.

Question 19

A resident with a fever should be

  1. ignored
  2. reported to the nurse
  3. given candy
  4. forced to walk
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. reported to the nurse

Explanation: A fever can indicate infection or illness, so it must be reported immediately.

Question 20

A resident's care plan is developed by the

  1. CNA alone
  2. healthcare team
  3. family only
  4. housekeeping staff
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. healthcare team

Explanation: The care plan is developed by an interdisciplinary healthcare team including nurses, doctors, therapists, and others.

Question 21

When assisting a resident to walk, the nursing assistant should stand

  1. behind the resident
  2. beside and slightly behind the resident
  3. in front of the resident
  4. across the room
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. beside and slightly behind the resident

Explanation: Standing beside and slightly behind allows the CNA to support the resident if they lose balance while still allowing them to walk independently.

Question 22

Which of the following helps prevent pressure ulcers?

  1. turning the resident frequently
  2. lowering fluid intake
  3. keeping the resident still
  4. limiting movement
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. turning the resident frequently

Explanation: Repositioning residents at least every 2 hours relieves pressure on the skin and improves circulation, preventing pressure sores.

Question 23

A resident who has difficulty chewing should be served

  1. regular foods
  2. soft foods
  3. spicy foods
  4. fried foods
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. soft foods

Explanation: Soft foods are easier to chew and swallow for residents with dental issues or chewing difficulties.

Question 24

When giving oral care, the nursing assistant should

  1. use cold water only
  2. wear gloves
  3. skip brushing the teeth
  4. stand across the room
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. wear gloves

Explanation: Oral care involves contact with saliva and body fluids, so gloves must be worn according to standard precautions.

Question 25

Which of the following is a sign of infection?

  1. normal temperature
  2. redness and swelling
  3. smooth skin
  4. steady pulse
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. redness and swelling

Explanation: Redness, swelling, warmth, and pain are classic signs of infection.

Question 26

Before feeding a resident, the nursing assistant should

  1. wash their hands
  2. start feeding immediately
  3. give medication
  4. leave the room
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. wash their hands

Explanation: Hand hygiene must be performed before any resident care activity, including feeding.

Question 27

A resident who cannot walk is called

  1. ambulatory
  2. bedridden
  3. mobile
  4. independent
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. bedridden

Explanation: A bedridden resident is unable to leave the bed without assistance.

Question 28

When measuring urine output, the unit commonly used is

  1. grams
  2. liters
  3. milliliters
  4. pounds
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. milliliters

Explanation: Fluid intake and output in healthcare is usually measured in milliliters (mL).

Question 29

Which of the following is a normal aging change?

  1. improved vision
  2. decreased hearing
  3. increased strength
  4. faster healing
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. decreased hearing

Explanation: Many older adults experience age-related hearing loss due to changes in the inner ear.

Question 30

When pushing a wheelchair, the nursing assistant should

  1. lock the wheels while moving
  2. unlock the wheels before pushing
  3. leave the brakes locked
  4. push with one hand
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. unlock the wheels before pushing

Explanation: Wheelchair brakes must be unlocked before movement and locked when transferring.

Question 31

A resident who has difficulty swallowing should be positioned

  1. lying flat
  2. sitting upright
  3. face down
  4. side lying
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. sitting upright

Explanation: Sitting upright helps prevent choking and aspiration during eating.

Question 32

Which vital sign measures body temperature?

  1. pulse
  2. respiration
  3. thermometer reading
  4. blood pressure
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. thermometer reading

Explanation: Temperature is measured using a thermometer.

Question 33

The best way to communicate with a confused resident is

  1. speak clearly and slowly
  2. argue with the resident
  3. shout loudly
  4. ignore them
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. speak clearly and slowly

Explanation: Clear, simple communication helps confused residents understand and remain calm.

Question 34

A resident who is short of breath should

  1. lie flat
  2. sit upright
  3. run around
  4. drink soda
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. sit upright

Explanation: Sitting upright allows better lung expansion and easier breathing.

Question 35

The main purpose of the skeletal system is to

  1. pump blood
  2. provide structure and support
  3. digest food
  4. control breathing
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. provide structure and support

Explanation: The skeletal system supports the body, protects organs, and works with muscles to produce movement.

Question 36

Which of the following is an example of abuse?

  1. speaking politely
  2. providing care
  3. hitting a resident
  4. assisting with meals
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. hitting a resident

Explanation: Hitting a resident is physical abuse, which must be reported immediately.

Question 37

A resident who is unconscious should never be given

  1. water
  2. medications
  3. food
  4. all of the above
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. all of the above

Explanation: Unconscious residents cannot swallow safely and could aspirate liquids, food, or medication.

Question 38

A resident who feels lonely may benefit from

  1. isolation
  2. social interaction
  3. strict bed rest
  4. no visitors
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. social interaction

Explanation: Social interaction improves emotional well-being and mental health.

Question 39

A resident complaining of pain should be

  1. ignored
  2. reported to the nurse
  3. told to stop complaining
  4. given medication by the CNA
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. reported to the nurse

Explanation: Pain complaints must be reported so the nurse can assess and treat the resident.

Question 40

A resident’s room should be kept

  1. dark and silent
  2. clean and safe
  3. cluttered
  4. locked at all times
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. clean and safe

Explanation: A clean and organized room helps prevent infections and accidents such as falls.

Question 41

A resident who cannot control bowel movements is said to be

  1. incontinent
  2. constipated
  3. ambulatory
  4. independent
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. incontinent

Explanation: Bowel incontinence means the inability to control bowel elimination, causing stool leakage.

Question 42

The normal resting pulse for an adult is approximately

  1. 30–50 bpm
  2. 40–60 bpm
  3. 60–100 bpm
  4. 100–140 bpm
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. 60–100 bpm

Explanation: The normal adult pulse rate is 60–100 beats per minute, though it may vary slightly depending on activity or health conditions.

Question 43

Which position is best for preventing aspiration during feeding?

  1. supine
  2. lateral
  3. sitting upright
  4. Trendelenburg
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. sitting upright

Explanation: Residents should sit upright during meals to reduce the risk of aspiration and choking.

Question 44

Which nutrient helps build and repair body tissues?

  1. carbohydrates
  2. fats
  3. protein
  4. vitamins
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. protein

Explanation: Protein supports growth, tissue repair, and muscle maintenance.

Question 45

When assisting with a bedpan, the nursing assistant should

  1. leave the resident alone for privacy
  2. ignore the resident
  3. keep the bed flat
  4. refuse assistance
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. leave the resident alone for privacy

Explanation: Residents deserve privacy and dignity during toileting.

Question 46

The body system responsible for breathing is the

  1. circulatory system
  2. digestive system
  3. respiratory system
  4. skeletal system
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. respiratory system

Explanation: The respiratory system includes lungs and airways, responsible for oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal.

Question 47

Which of the following is an example of emotional abuse?

  1. hitting
  2. yelling insults
  3. assisting with bathing
  4. helping with meals
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. yelling insults

Explanation: Emotional abuse includes verbal threats, insults, humiliation, or intimidation.

Question 48

A resident who wanders frequently should be

  1. ignored
  2. restrained immediately
  3. supervised for safety
  4. locked in a room
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. supervised for safety

Explanation: Residents who wander should be monitored to prevent injury, not punished.

Question 49

A resident complaining of chest pain should

  1. be ignored
  2. be reported immediately to the nurse
  3. be given water
  4. be told to rest
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. be reported immediately to the nurse

Explanation: Chest pain may indicate serious heart problems and requires immediate reporting.

Question 50

Which of the following helps prevent falls?

  1. cluttered floors
  2. proper lighting
  3. loose rugs
  4. slippery floors
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. proper lighting

Explanation: Good lighting helps residents see hazards and maintain balance.

Question 51

Which sense may decline with aging?

  1. vision
  2. hearing
  3. taste
  4. all of the above
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. all of the above

Explanation: Aging may affect vision, hearing, taste, smell, and touch.

Question 52

The digestive system helps

  1. circulate blood
  2. break down food
  3. pump oxygen
  4. control muscles
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. break down food

Explanation: The digestive system breaks down food into nutrients the body can absorb.

Question 53

Which of the following helps prevent infection when coughing?

  1. covering the mouth
  2. shouting
  3. ignoring the cough
  4. drinking water only
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. covering the mouth

Explanation: Covering the mouth reduces spread of respiratory droplets and infection.

Question 54

A resident who feels dizzy should

  1. stand quickly
  2. sit or lie down
  3. run around
  4. ignore the feeling
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. sit or lie down

Explanation: Sitting or lying down helps prevent falls and injury.

Question 55

A resident's care plan is important because it

  1. guides resident care
  2. replaces the nurse
  3. controls staffing
  4. eliminates charting
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. guides resident care

Explanation: The care plan outlines specific care needs and goals for each resident.

Question 56

A CNA should wash hands after

  1. removing gloves
  2. assisting with toileting
  3. contact with body fluids
  4. all of the above
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. all of the above

Explanation: Handwashing must occur after all potential contamination events.

Question 57

A resident who refuses food should

  1. be forced to eat
  2. be reported to the nurse
  3. be ignored
  4. be punished
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. be reported to the nurse

Explanation: Refusing food may indicate illness, depression, or swallowing issues, so it must be reported.

Question 58

Which body system controls movement?

  1. muscular system
  2. digestive system
  3. respiratory system
  4. endocrine system
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. muscular system

Explanation: Muscles work with bones to produce body movement.

Question 59

Which action promotes resident dignity?

  1. knocking before entering
  2. ignoring privacy
  3. speaking loudly about residents
  4. rushing care
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. knocking before entering

Explanation: Knocking respects resident privacy and dignity.

Question 60

A resident who is confused should be

  1. yelled at
  2. ignored
  3. spoken to calmly
  4. punished
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. spoken to calmly

Explanation: Calm communication helps reduce confusion and anxiety.

Question 61

A resident’s temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) indicates

  1. hypothermia
  2. fever
  3. normal temperature
  4. dehydration
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. fever

Explanation: A temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) generally indicates fever, which may signal infection and should be reported.

Question 62

When giving mouth care to an unconscious resident, the resident should be positioned

  1. sitting upright
  2. flat on the back
  3. on the side
  4. standing
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. on the side

Explanation: Side-lying prevents aspiration of fluids during oral care.

Question 63

Which body system removes waste through urine?

  1. urinary system
  2. circulatory system
  3. respiratory system
  4. endocrine system
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. urinary system

Explanation: The urinary system includes kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, which remove waste from the blood.

Question 64

Which action helps prevent infection when handling soiled linens?

  1. shaking linens
  2. holding linens close to the body
  3. placing linens in designated bags
  4. dropping linens on the floor
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. placing linens in designated bags

Explanation: Soiled linens should be placed directly into laundry bags to prevent contamination spread.

Question 65

A resident who is able to walk independently is called

  1. bedridden
  2. ambulatory
  3. incontinent
  4. dependent
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. ambulatory

Explanation: Ambulatory means able to walk independently or with minimal assistance.

Question 66

Which of the following is a normal change of aging?

  1. stronger muscles
  2. slower reaction time
  3. improved hearing
  4. faster healing
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. slower reaction time

Explanation: Aging may lead to slower reflexes and reaction time, increasing fall risk.

Question 67

A resident with diabetes may experience

  1. low or high blood sugar
  2. hearing loss
  3. broken bones
  4. dehydration only
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. low or high blood sugar

Explanation: Diabetes affects blood glucose regulation, leading to hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.

Question 68

Which action helps maintain resident dignity?

  1. exposing the resident fully
  2. keeping the resident covered
  3. speaking loudly about care
  4. ignoring privacy
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. keeping the resident covered

Explanation: Keeping residents covered maintains privacy, dignity, and comfort.

Question 69

A CNA should report immediately if a resident

  1. eats breakfast
  2. falls
  3. sleeps
  4. watches television
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. falls

Explanation: Falls may cause serious injury and must be reported immediately.

Question 70

The organ that pumps blood is the

  1. lungs
  2. heart
  3. stomach
  4. liver
View answer and explanation

Correct answer:

  1. heart

Explanation: The heart pumps blood throughout the body via the circulatory system.