Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Who is not permitted to use nail clippers to trim a resident's toenails in long-term care?

1. Registered nurse

2. Nursing assistant

3. Physical therapist

4. Occupational therapist

The correct answer is: Nursing assistant

In long-term care settings, the responsibilities associated with personal care tasks, including the use of nail clippers for trimming toenails, are often delineated by the scope of practice for different healthcare professionals. Nursing assistants typically assist residents with daily living activities, but trimming toenails is often restricted due to the potential for complications such as cuts, infections, or other issues that may arise from improper technique or lack of training in handling specific conditions, such as diabetes or circulatory problems. Registered nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists are all trained to handle a broader range of interventions, including foot care, especially in patients who might have more intricate medical needs. Registered nurses possess the education and experience to ensure that toenail trimming is done safely, taking into account any medical conditions present. Physical therapists and occupational therapists may also engage in foot-related care through their rehabilitation activities, including assessing foot health and providing appropriate interventions. Given these considerations, the nursing assistant is generally not permitted to use nail clippers for this task in long-term care, as it falls outside their designated scope of practice and training. This regulation ensures that residents' care is performed by professionals with the appropriate skills to minimize risks and promote safety.