Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What should a nursing assistant do if they suspect a resident is experiencing a stroke?

1. Give the resident pain medication

2. Check the resident's blood pressure

3. Assist the resident to lie down and keep calm

4. Encourage the resident to walk around

The correct answer is: Assist the resident to lie down and keep calm

The correct response is to assist the resident to lie down and keep calm. In the event of a suspected stroke, it's crucial to ensure the individual's safety and comfort while minimizing any potential complications. Assisting the person to lie down reduces the risk of falls or injury, as they may have impaired coordination or strength. Keeping the resident calm can also help manage stress and anxiety, which is vital during such a critical incident. While checking the resident's blood pressure may seem relevant, it is not the immediate priority in a suspected stroke situation. Similarly, giving pain medication or encouraging ambulation could risk worsening the condition or putting the resident in danger, given that stroke may affect mobility and cognitive function. Thus, remaining focused on providing support and stability is essential in such scenarios.