Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

When bathing a resident, a nursing assistant should:

1. Leave the resident alone to promote self-care

2. Get each item needed as the resident asks for it

3. Use bath oil to moisturize the resident's skin

4. Make sure the room is warm enough before beginning

The correct answer is: Make sure the room is warm enough before beginning

Ensuring that the room is warm enough before bathing a resident is crucial for their comfort and safety. A warm environment helps prevent the resident from becoming chilled during the bathing process, which can lead to discomfort or even hypothermia, especially for individuals who may have compromised health status or sensitivity to temperature changes. In addition to promoting comfort, a warm room can also help relax the resident, making the bathing experience more pleasant and cooperative. It shows attentiveness to the resident's needs, fostering a respectful and supportive caregiving relationship. While promoting self-care is important, leaving the resident alone may pose safety risks or lead to feelings of abandonment. Fetching items as requested might disrupt the flow of the bathing process and lead to delays. Using bath oil, although potentially beneficial for skin care, may not be appropriate for all residents, particularly those with certain skin conditions or sensitivities. Therefore, ensuring a warm environment is the most essential step before beginning the bathing procedure.