CNA Certification (Written Exam)Activities of Daily LivingMedium
A CNA is assisting a resident with brushing their teeth. The resident is able to hold the toothbrush but has difficulty reaching all areas of their mouth. What is the MOST appropriate action for the CNA?
- AAllow the resident to brush only the areas they can reach.
- BProvide a mouthwash instead of brushing.
- CGuide the resident's hand to help them reach difficult areas.
- DTake over completely and brush the resident's teeth for them.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Guide the resident's hand to help them reach difficult areas.
Guiding the resident's hand promotes independence by allowing them to participate in their oral hygiene while ensuring all areas of the mouth are cleaned effectively.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Allowing the resident to brush only accessible areas compromises complete oral hygiene.
- B. Mouthwash is not a substitute for mechanical brushing for effective oral hygiene.
- D. Taking over completely reduces resident independence and participation.
Assisted Oral Hygiene
Providing support to residents during oral hygiene tasks to promote independence while ensuring thorough cleaning, especially when dexterity is limited.
- Encourage resident participation as much as possible.
- Offer assistance for difficult-to-reach areas.
- Oral hygiene is crucial for preventing infections.
Memory trick: Independence with Assistance: Hold the Hand, Not the Hope!