CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A nurse aide notices a resident's room floor is wet from a recently mopped area. What is the priority action to prevent a fall?
- APlace a 'wet floor' caution sign and block access until dry
- BLeave the floor as is since it will dry quickly
- CMop the floor again to dry it faster
- DTell the resident verbally to be careful when walking
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Place a 'wet floor' caution sign and block access until dry
Placing a visible wet floor sign and restricting access until the floor is dry is the standard safety measure to prevent slips and falls. A verbal warning alone or leaving the area unmarked does not adequately protect residents, especially those with cognitive or mobility impairments.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Leaving a wet floor unmarked risks a slip-and-fall injury.
- C. Mopping again does not dry the floor and adds more moisture.
- D. Verbal warnings may be forgotten or not heard by all residents.
Wet Floor Hazard Prevention
A fall-prevention practice requiring visible warning signage and restricted access whenever floors are wet to reduce slip risk.
- Wet floor signs must be clearly visible
- Block access if possible until floor dries
- Applies to spills, mopping, and weather tracked-in water
Memory trick: See wet, set the sign — silence isn't a safety plan.