In the print window, choose “Save as PDF” to keep a copy on your device.
1Formulas and methods
Nursing assistant (CNA) knowledge
Method
Check whether the resident is in danger right now (not breathing, choking, a fall, chest pain, stroke signs); if so, keep them safe and get the nurse at once.
Ask whether the task is within the nursing assistant’s scope and training; if not, decline politely and tell the nurse.
Respect the resident’s rights: privacy, choice, refusal of care, dignity and freedom from abuse and unneeded restraints.
Apply the basic rules: hand hygiene, body mechanics, bed low and call light within reach, weak side first when dressing.
Observe and report: compare with the resident’s usual state and report changes promptly and objectively.
Nursing math & unit conversions
Metric steps
1 kg = 1000 g, 1 g = 1000 mg, 1 mg = 1000 mcg, 1 L = 1000 mL
Weight and length
1 kg = 2.2 lb, 1 lb = 16 oz, 1 in = 2.54 cm, 1 ft = 12 in
Household measures
1 tsp = 5 mL, 1 tbsp = 15 mL, 1 fl oz = 30 mL, 1 cup = 8 fl oz = 240 mL
Write the given quantity with its unit and the unit you want.
Pick the equivalent: 1000 between kg, g, mg and mcg or L and mL; 1 kg = 2.2 lb; 1 tsp = 5 mL, 1 tbsp = 15 mL, 1 fl oz = 30 mL, 1 cup = 240 mL.
Write it as a fraction so that the unwanted unit cancels; for a rate, use one fraction per unit that changes.
Check the direction: a smaller unit gives a bigger number.
Round only the final answer, to the precision the question names.
2Practice problems
1.Nursing assistant (CNA) knowledgeMedium
A resident is receiving a tube feeding. How should the head of the bed be positioned?
ARaised, usually at least 30 degrees
BFlat, with the resident lying on the back
CLowered below the level of the feet
DRaised only during the night
2.Nursing assistant (CNA) knowledgeHard
A resident tells the nursing assistant that her tightly curled hair needs special care. What is the best approach?
AAsk about her usual products and routine, and use a wide-tooth comb
BWash it every day with strong shampoo
CUse the same routine as for every other resident
DBrush it hard each day with a fine-tooth comb to straighten out the curls
3.Nursing math & unit conversionsMedium
Practice exercise (made-up values, not clinical guidance). A weight conversion gives 56.9122 kg. The rule in this exercise is that weights are rounded to the nearest tenth of a kilogram. What value x do you record?
56.9122 kg
x = kg
4.Nursing math & unit conversionsHard
Practice exercise (made-up values, not clinical guidance). An infusion delivers 40 mcg/min. Express this dose rate D in mg/h.
40 mcg/min1 h = 60 min1 mg = 1000 mcg
D = mg/h
3Solutions
1.Nursing assistant (CNA) knowledge
Answer: A · Raised, usually at least 30 degrees
Why this is the answer
The head of the bed is kept raised, usually 30 degrees or more, during the feeding and for a time afterward to reduce the risk of aspiration. The nursing assistant does not adjust the tube or the pump.
Answer
A · Raised, usually at least 30 degrees
2.Nursing assistant (CNA) knowledge
Answer: A · Ask about her usual products and routine, and use a wide-tooth comb
Why this is the answer
Hair care differs between people and cultures. Asking about the resident's preferences and products, and using a wide-tooth comb, respects her and prevents breakage and discomfort.
Answer
A · Ask about her usual products and routine, and use a wide-tooth comb
3.Nursing math & unit conversions
Answer: x = 56.9 kg
Rounding: look at the digit just after the place you round to: 5 or more rounds up, 4 or less leaves the digit as it is. Round only the final answer, never the steps. Typical exam rules: volumes of 1 mL or more to the nearest tenth, volumes below 1 mL to the nearest hundredth, drip rates to whole drops and weights to one decimal place; always follow the rule the question states.
Digit in the tenths place
56.9122 → 9
Only the next digit decides
56.9122 → 1
1 is 4 or less, so 9 stays.
The digits after it (22) are ignored: round once, never step by step.
Round
x = 56.9 kg
Answer
x = 56.9 kg
4.Nursing math & unit conversions
Answer: D = 2.4 mg/h
Dimensional analysis: write the given quantity, then multiply by conversion factors written as fractions (for example 60 min/1 h or 1 mg/1000 mcg) so that each unwanted unit appears once on top and once underneath and cancels. When only the wanted unit is left, calculate. Use the equivalents the question gives and round only the final answer.
Set up the chain
D = 40 mcg/min × (60 min/1 h) × (1 mg/1000 mcg)
Calculate
D = 40·60/1000 = 2.4 mg/h
Answer
D = 2.4 mg/h
This is independent practice material. ExamProblems is not affiliated with or endorsed by the organisation that runs this exam, and the exam name is used only to describe the content.