Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of physical abuse?

1. Stealing from a resident

2. Showing a resident pornographic material

3. Shoving a resident

4. Threatening a resident

The correct answer is: Shoving a resident

In a healthcare context, physical abuse refers to any intentional act that causes harm or injury to another person through physical force. Shoving a resident clearly constitutes physical abuse as it involves the use of physical power to push or shove someone, potentially leading to injury or distress. This behavior is harmful and violates the trust and safety that nursing assistants are expected to uphold when caring for residents. The other options involve different forms of abuse or misconduct. Stealing from a resident is classified as financial abuse, which involves taking a resident’s belongings or money. Showing a resident pornographic material falls under emotional or psychological abuse, as it can cause significant distress and violate personal dignity. Threatening a resident is also a form of emotional abuse, as it instills fear and can lead to psychological harm. In all, shoving a resident is a clear and undeniable action of physical abuse, distinguishing it from the other types of misconduct presented.