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AMCA NAC practice questions

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Question 1Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which vital sign measures the force of blood against artery walls?

  1. Blood pressure Correct answer.
  2. Pulse rate
  3. Respiratory rate
  4. Body temperature

Explanation

Blood pressure reflects the force exerted by circulating blood on arterial walls and is recorded as systolic over diastolic pressure. The other measures describe heart rate, breathing rate, and body heat.

Question 2Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A nursing assistant is counting a resident's respirations. Which action gives the most accurate count?

  1. Count for fifteen seconds and multiply by two
  2. Announce the count so the resident can follow along
  3. Ask the resident to breathe deeply during the count
  4. Count without telling the resident, keeping a hand on the wrist Correct answer.

Explanation

Respiration rate changes when a person knows it is being counted, so the assistant should appear to be taking a pulse. A full minute count is used for accuracy.

Question 3Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

What is the correct handwashing duration when using soap and water?

  1. At least 20 seconds Correct answer.
  2. At least 2 minutes
  3. At least 5 seconds
  4. At least 60 seconds

Explanation

Guidelines recommend scrubbing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. Shorter times do not allow adequate removal of organisms.

Question 4Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is on contact precautions. Which item should the nursing assistant remove first when leaving the room?

  1. Gown
  2. Gloves Correct answer.
  3. Mask
  4. Goggles

Explanation

Personal protective equipment is removed in order from most to least contaminated, so gloves come off first, followed by goggles, gown, and mask.

Question 5Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which finding should be reported to the nurse immediately?

  1. A resident who suddenly cannot speak clearly Correct answer.
  2. A resident who wants the window opened
  3. A resident who requests a different pillow
  4. A resident who asks for a second blanket

Explanation

Sudden difficulty speaking may indicate a stroke or other emergency and requires immediate nursing assessment. Comfort requests can be addressed routinely.

Question 6Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

When transferring a resident from bed to chair, which action protects the assistant's back?

  1. Twist the torso while lifting
  2. Reach forward with straight legs
  3. Bend at the knees and keep the resident close Correct answer.
  4. Lift with the arms extended away from the body

Explanation

Bending the knees and keeping the load near the body reduces spinal strain. Twisting and reaching increase the risk of injury.

Question 7Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which position is generally used for a resident who is unconscious and has no spinal injury?

  1. Lateral side-lying Correct answer.
  2. Supine flat
  3. Trendelenburg
  4. Prone

Explanation

A lateral side-lying position helps keep the airway open and allows secretions to drain. Supine positioning risks aspiration in an unconscious person.

Question 8Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident with a new colostomy needs a pouch change. What should the assistant do first?

  1. Gather supplies and explain the procedure Correct answer.
  2. Empty the pouch into the sink
  3. Cut the pouch opening before washing hands
  4. Apply powder to the stoma itself

Explanation

Preparation includes hand hygiene, gathering equipment, and explaining the procedure to promote cooperation and privacy. Pouches are emptied into a toilet, not a sink.

Question 9Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which fluid is most appropriate to offer a resident who is on a clear liquid diet?

  1. Apple juice Correct answer.
  2. Oatmeal
  3. Milk
  4. Cream of tomato soup

Explanation

Clear liquids are transparent and leave little residue, such as juice without pulp, broth, and gelatin. Milk, creamy soups, and cereals are not clear liquids.

Question 10Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is choking and can cough forcefully. What should the assistant do?

  1. Give the resident water to swallow
  2. Give abdominal thrusts right away
  3. Encourage the resident to keep coughing Correct answer.
  4. Lay the resident flat on the floor

Explanation

A forceful cough means air is still moving, so the person should be encouraged to clear the obstruction. Abdominal thrusts are used when the airway is fully blocked.

Question 11Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action best supports a resident's right to privacy during a bed bath?

  1. Ask other residents to look away
  2. Close the door and use a curtain or screen Correct answer.
  3. Bathe the resident in a shared hallway
  4. Leave the door open for quick access

Explanation

Privacy is protected by closing doors and using curtains or screens while providing personal care. Exposure to others violates dignity and confidentiality.

Question 12Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident refuses a scheduled bath. What is the appropriate response?

  1. Report the resident for noncompliance
  2. Respect the refusal and offer the bath later Correct answer.
  3. Tell the resident the bath is required today
  4. Proceed with the bath despite the refusal

Explanation

Residents have the right to refuse care, and the assistant should honor that choice while offering alternatives later. Forcing care violates autonomy.

Question 13Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which statement best describes a resident's advance directive?

  1. A nurse's written order for daily care
  2. A document stating the resident's wishes for future medical care Correct answer.
  3. A facility policy on visiting hours
  4. A family member's request for treatment

Explanation

Advance directives record a person's preferences for medical treatment if they lose decision-making capacity. They are not staff orders or facility rules.

Question 14Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident with dementia repeatedly asks where her deceased husband is. What is the best response?

  1. Acknowledge her feelings and redirect to a comforting activity Correct answer.
  2. Ignore the question and walk away
  3. Tell her firmly that he died long ago
  4. Tell her he is on his way to visit

Explanation

Validating feelings and gently redirecting reduces distress without deception or confrontation. Blunt reminders of loss can increase agitation.

Question 15Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident's urine output has been very low for two days. Which action should the assistant take?

  1. Chart it as normal to avoid concern
  2. Wait until the next shift to check again
  3. Record the output and report it to the nurse Correct answer.
  4. Increase the resident's water without an order

Explanation

Low urine output may signal dehydration or kidney problems and must be documented and reported promptly. Fluid intake requires a care plan or order.

Question 16Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which measure helps prevent pressure injuries in a bedbound resident?

  1. Massage reddened bony areas
  2. Keep the head of the bed raised at 90 degrees
  3. Reposition at least every two hours Correct answer.
  4. Use a rubber ring under the sacrum

Explanation

Regular repositioning relieves pressure on bony prominences and is a core prevention strategy. Massaging reddened areas and using ring cushions can cause further tissue damage.

Question 17Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is on fall precautions. Which room setup is safest?

  1. Bed raised high with side rails up
  2. Call light within reach and bed in low position Correct answer.
  3. Floor kept wet after cleaning
  4. Call light on the far wall

Explanation

A low bed and an accessible call light reduce the chance of falling and allow the resident to summon help. A high bed and wet floors increase risk.

Question 18Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which task can a nursing assistant perform without delegation from a licensed nurse?

  1. Changing a sterile dressing
  2. Taking a routine oral temperature Correct answer.
  3. Adjusting an IV flow rate
  4. Administering a prescribed medication

Explanation

Routine vital signs fall within the assistant's scope of practice. Medication administration, IV regulation, and sterile dressing changes require a license.

Question 19Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident reports pain rated 8 out of 10 and is sweating. What should the assistant do?

  1. Give an over-the-counter pain pill
  2. Report the pain and signs to the nurse promptly Correct answer.
  3. Tell the resident to wait until morning
  4. Distract the resident with television

Explanation

Severe pain with sweating may indicate a serious problem and must be reported to the nurse for assessment and treatment. Assistants do not administer medications.

Question 20Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which technique best promotes effective communication with a resident who has hearing loss?

  1. Face the resident and speak clearly at a normal volume Correct answer.
  2. Speak rapidly to finish quickly
  3. Cover the mouth while speaking
  4. Shout from another room

Explanation

Facing the resident allows lip reading and clearer sound, and normal volume is usually sufficient. Shouting and covering the mouth distort speech.

Question 21Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident's daughter asks for details of her mother's medical record. What should the assistant do?

  1. Refer her to the nurse or privacy officer Correct answer.
  2. Tell her to look through the chart herself
  3. Share the information because she is family
  4. Read the chart aloud to her

Explanation

Health information is confidential and may only be shared according to privacy rules and authorization. The assistant should refer the request rather than disclose.

Question 22Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is receiving oxygen through a nasal cannula. Which safety measure is essential?

  1. Keep open flames away from the oxygen Correct answer.
  2. Place the tubing under the mattress
  3. Apply petroleum jelly to the nostrils
  4. Set the flow rate higher if breathing seems fast

Explanation

Oxygen supports combustion, so flames and sparks must be kept away. Assistants must never change the prescribed flow rate.

Question 23Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident has not had a bowel movement in four days and reports abdominal discomfort. What should the assistant do?

  1. Tell the resident to drink less fluid
  2. Ignore it since constipation is common
  3. Give a laxative from the supply closet
  4. Record the finding and notify the nurse Correct answer.

Explanation

Constipation with discomfort should be documented and reported so the nurse can assess and order treatment. Assistants cannot give medications.

Question 24Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action best supports a resident's dignity during a bed bath?

  1. Bathe the resident with the door open
  2. Expose only the area being washed Correct answer.
  3. Skip introductions to save time
  4. Discuss the resident's care loudly in the hallway

Explanation

Draping keeps the resident covered except for the area being cleansed, preserving dignity. Hallway discussions and skipped introductions undermine respect and privacy.

Question 25Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident begins a seizure while sitting in a chair. What should the assistant do first?

  1. Ease the resident to the floor and protect the head Correct answer.
  2. Place a spoon between the teeth
  3. Give the resident water
  4. Hold the resident's arms and legs still

Explanation

Guiding the resident to a safe surface and cushioning the head prevents injury during a seizure. Restraints, oral objects, and fluids are dangerous.

Question 26Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which pulse site is most commonly used to measure an adult's heart rate during routine vital signs?

  1. Carotid artery in the neck
  2. Popliteal artery behind the knee
  3. Radial artery at the wrist Correct answer.
  4. Dorsalis pedis artery on the foot

Explanation

The radial pulse is easily accessible, safe to press, and does not require exposing the resident, so it is the standard site for routine heart-rate checks. Other sites are used when the radial pulse is inaccessible or when a specific assessment is needed.

Question 27Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident has a temperature of 101.8 F (38.8 C) taken orally. What should the assistant do?

  1. Give the resident extra blankets to stop shivering
  2. Report the elevated temperature to the licensed nurse Correct answer.
  3. Wait one hour and recheck before telling anyone
  4. Record the value and take no further action

Explanation

A temperature this high is a significant change that must be reported promptly so the nurse can assess the resident. Assistants document and report findings but do not decide on treatment independently.

Question 28Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action is correct when counting a resident's respirations?

  1. Ask the resident to take deep breaths during the count
  2. Count only the breaths the resident reports feeling
  3. Count for a full minute while the resident is unaware you are watching Correct answer.
  4. Tell the resident to breathe normally and count for 15 seconds

Explanation

Residents tend to change their breathing when they know it is being counted, so respirations are best counted without announcing it, ideally right after taking the pulse. A full minute gives an accurate rate and rhythm.

Question 29Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

When cleaning a resident's dentures, which action is correct?

  1. Line the sink with a towel or fill it with water before cleaning Correct answer.
  2. Use hot water to sterilize the dentures
  3. Hold the dentures with one hand over the bare sink
  4. Clean them with regular toothpaste and a stiff brush

Explanation

Dentures are slippery and break easily if dropped, so padding the sink or partially filling it protects them. They should be cleaned with cool water and a denture brush or soft brush.

Question 30Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

An unconscious resident needs mouth care. Which position is safest?

  1. Supine with the head tilted back over the pillow
  2. Flat on the back with the head centered
  3. Side-lying with the head turned toward the mattress Correct answer.
  4. Sitting fully upright in a chair

Explanation

An unconscious resident cannot swallow or cough, so a side-lying position with the head turned allows fluids to drain out and reduces the risk of aspiration. Never place an unconscious resident flat on the back for mouth care.

Question 31Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which finding about a resident's skin should the assistant report to the nurse?

  1. A small bruise on the forearm from bumping a table
  2. A mole the resident has had since childhood
  3. A reddened area over the tailbone that does not fade when pressed Correct answer.
  4. Dry skin on the lower legs

Explanation

A non-blanching red area over a bony prominence is an early sign of pressure injury and must be reported so preventive measures can begin. Other findings may be noted but are not urgent skin breakdown signs.

Question 32Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action helps keep a resident's perineal area clean and prevents infection?

  1. Wiping from back to front after toileting
  2. Using the same washcloth for the perineum and the face
  3. Rinsing the perineal area with hot water only
  4. Wiping from front to back after toileting Correct answer.

Explanation

Front-to-back wiping moves bacteria away from the urethra, reducing the risk of urinary tract infection. Separate washcloths and mild cleanser should be used for different body areas.

Question 33Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is on intake and output monitoring. Which item should be recorded as intake?

  1. Emesis collected in a basin
  2. A cup of ice chips that has melted Correct answer.
  3. Urine emptied from the drainage bag
  4. Wound drainage on a dressing

Explanation

Intake includes anything the resident takes in by mouth, including ice chips once melted, which are counted as fluid. Outputs are measured separately and include urine, emesis, and drainage.

Question 34Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident must remain on strict bed rest. Which action best prevents complications of immobility?

  1. Limiting all fluids to prevent toileting
  2. Repositioning the resident at scheduled intervals Correct answer.
  3. Keeping the room dark so the resident can sleep
  4. Leaving the head of the bed flat at all times

Explanation

Regular repositioning relieves pressure on skin and supports circulation and lung expansion, which are key to preventing immobility complications. Fluids should not be restricted unless ordered.

Question 35Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action is correct when assisting a resident to use a bedpan?

  1. Raise the head of the bed and provide privacy Correct answer.
  2. Leave the resident alone with the call light out of reach
  3. Place the bedpan under the resident while the bed is flat
  4. Ask the resident to sit on the edge of the bed to place it

Explanation

Raising the head of the bed supports a more natural position, and privacy protects dignity. The call light should always be within reach so the resident can summon help.

Question 36Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident uses a hearing aid. Which action helps the device work properly?

  1. Clean the hearing aid with a toothpick in the ear canal
  2. Turn the hearing aid off and remove it before bedtime Correct answer.
  3. Leave the hearing aid on continuously for weeks
  4. Store the hearing aid in a glass of water overnight

Explanation

Hearing aids are turned off and removed at night to save the battery and give the ear a rest. They are stored dry and cleaned according to instructions, never with water or sharp objects in the ear.

Question 37Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident wears eyeglasses. Which action best protects the glasses and the resident?

  1. Leave them on the resident's pillow during sleep
  2. Clean the lenses with a dry paper towel
  3. Place them lens-down on the bedside table
  4. Store them in a labeled case when not in use Correct answer.

Explanation

A labeled case protects the lenses from scratches and keeps the glasses identifiable for the correct resident. Lenses should be cleaned with a soft cloth and stored safely.

Question 38Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is choking and has a forceful cough but the cough becomes silent. What should the assistant do?

  1. Give the resident a glass of water to swallow
  2. Pat the resident on the back and continue observing
  3. Begin abdominal thrusts and call for help Correct answer.
  4. Lay the resident flat and wait for the cough to return

Explanation

A silent cough means the airway is now blocked and the resident cannot move air, so immediate abdominal thrusts and emergency help are needed. Water should never be given to someone with an obstructed airway.

Question 39Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action supports a resident's right to make choices about daily care?

  1. Offering two acceptable options for what to wear Correct answer.
  2. Telling the resident which foods to select at meals
  3. Deciding the resident's bath time without discussion
  4. Choosing clothing for the resident without asking

Explanation

Residents have the right to make personal choices, and offering limited acceptable options respects autonomy while keeping care practical. Making decisions for the resident undermines that right.

Question 40Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident asks the assistant to explain the risks of a new medication. What should the assistant do?

  1. Read the medication label aloud and interpret it
  2. Explain the risks based on personal knowledge
  3. Refer the question to the licensed nurse Correct answer.
  4. Tell the resident the medication has no risks

Explanation

Explaining medication risks is the responsibility of the licensed nurse or pharmacist. The assistant should refer the question rather than interpret medical information.

Question 41Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is being admitted and brings a list of home medications. What should the assistant do with the list?

  1. Discard it because home medications are not used
  2. Place it in the resident's personal drawer without telling anyone
  3. Give it to the licensed nurse for review Correct answer.
  4. Use it to decide which medications to administer

Explanation

Home medication information is important for the nurse to reconcile with current orders. Assistants do not administer or decide on medications.

Question 42Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action best prevents the spread of infection when caring for a resident?

  1. Wearing the same gloves for several residents
  2. Skipping hand hygiene when gloves are worn
  3. Performing hand hygiene before and after resident contact Correct answer.
  4. Reusing a gown that has visible soil

Explanation

Hand hygiene before and after contact is the single most effective way to prevent infection transmission. Gloves do not replace hand hygiene, and soiled protective equipment must be changed.

Question 43Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is on contact precautions. Which action is correct?

  1. Wear only a mask at the doorway
  2. Wear gloves and a gown when entering the room Correct answer.
  3. Use the same equipment for this resident and others
  4. Leave the door open and skip protective equipment

Explanation

Contact precautions require gloves and a gown for room entry to prevent organisms from spreading on hands and clothing. Dedicated equipment should be used when possible.

Question 44Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident has an indwelling urinary catheter. Which action helps prevent catheter-associated infection?

  1. Allowing the tubing to loop and rest on the floor
  2. Emptying the bag only when it is completely full
  3. Raising the drainage bag above the bladder when moving the bed
  4. Keeping the drainage bag below the level of the bladder Correct answer.

Explanation

Keeping the bag below bladder level prevents urine from flowing back into the bladder, which reduces infection risk. The tubing should stay free of kinks and off the floor.

Question 45Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is being helped to ambulate with a gait belt. Which action is correct?

  1. Place the belt around the resident's chest
  2. Pull upward on the belt to lift the resident
  3. Walk in front of the resident and pull the belt forward
  4. Apply the belt snugly around the waist and walk slightly behind and to the side Correct answer.

Explanation

A gait belt around the waist gives a secure grip, and walking slightly behind and to the side lets the assistant support the resident without blocking the path. The belt should never be used to lift or pull.

Question 46Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is being transferred from bed to wheelchair. Which action is correct?

  1. Leave the brakes unlocked to allow adjustment
  2. Keep the footrests in place during the transfer
  3. Place the wheelchair at the far side of the room
  4. Lock the wheelchair brakes and swing the footrests out of the way Correct answer.

Explanation

Locking the brakes and moving the footrests prevents the chair from rolling and keeps the path clear during the transfer. The chair should be positioned close to the bed.

Question 47Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident is receiving oxygen therapy. Which action is essential for safety?

  1. Store the oxygen cylinder lying flat on the floor
  2. Keep the oxygen equipment away from open flames and sparks Correct answer.
  3. Apply petroleum jelly to the resident's nose and lips
  4. Use an alcohol-based lotion near the oxygen tubing

Explanation

Oxygen supports combustion, so open flames, sparks, and flammable products must be kept away from the equipment. Oil-based products should also be avoided near oxygen.

Question 48Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

Which action supports a resident's rest and sleep at night?

  1. Speaking loudly during nighttime checks
  2. Scheduling routine care frequently through the night
  3. Keeping the call light within reach and reducing noise Correct answer.
  4. Turning on bright overhead lights during the night

Explanation

A quiet environment with the call light within reach supports sleep while keeping the resident safe. Unnecessary nighttime activity and bright light disrupt rest.

Question 49Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident who uses a walker needs to get up from the bed. Which sequence is safest?

  1. Have the assistant lift the resident straight up
  2. Sit on the edge of the bed, place hands on the walker, then stand with the walker in front Correct answer.
  3. Stand first, then reach for the walker
  4. Place the walker behind the resident before standing

Explanation

Sitting on the edge allows the resident to become steady, and the walker should be in front where the resident can grip it before standing. The resident should never be lifted by the assistant.

Question 50Nursing Assistant Fundamentals

A resident's food tray arrives and the resident is on a dysphagia diet. Which action is correct?

  1. Confirm the tray matches the ordered diet and position the resident upright Correct answer.
  2. Place the resident in a reclining position for the meal
  3. Encourage the resident to eat quickly
  4. Add a glass of thin liquids to the tray

Explanation

Checking that the tray matches the ordered diet and sitting the resident upright supports safe swallowing and prevents errors. Thin liquids and reclining positions increase aspiration risk for residents with dysphagia.