Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which of the following guidelines is true of working around oxygen equipment?

1. NAs should not allow open flames around oxygen

2. NAs should adjust oxygen levels when they are too high or too low

3. NAs should replace oxygen tubing if it becomes clogged

4. NAs should prescribe a new oxygen delivery device if the current one is causing skin problems

The correct answer is: NAs should not allow open flames around oxygen

The guideline about not allowing open flames around oxygen is fundamentally important for safety in a healthcare setting. Oxygen is a highly supportive element for combustion, meaning that it can significantly increase the flammability of materials and accelerate fires. Open flames, such as those from matches, lighters, or even certain electrical devices that may spark, pose a serious risk when oxygen is in use. Hence, maintaining a safe environment by eliminating open flames nearby is essential to prevent accidents and ensure patient safety. Other options suggest actions that involve adjusting or replacing oxygen equipment, but these tasks are typically beyond the scope of a nursing assistant's training and responsibilities. For instance, adjusting oxygen levels or prescribing devices requires specific knowledge and authority, which nursing assistants do not have under their certification. Instead, such actions should be conducted by licensed healthcare providers who have the training to make those decisions while considering the patient's overall health and prescribed treatment plan.