While helping a resident put on shoes, a resident with dementia suddenly swings an open hand toward the CNA's face. What should the CNA do FIRST?
Answer choices
- AHit the resident's hand away firmly to show who is in charge
- BHold the resident down and finish putting both shoes on
- CLaugh and say the resident has a funny temper
- DStop, move out of reach, speak calmly, and get help if needed
About this question
What should a CNA do FIRST when a resident with dementia swings toward the CNA's face during shoe care? Agitation and combative behavior stems test safety and de-escalation, not finishing the task at all costs. Hitting back, forcing care, or mocking the resident are automatic fails. Read the wording and clinical context closely; those details determine the NNAAP competency being tested.
This item asks for the FIRST action. Stop the care, move out of reach, speak calmly, and get help if needed. Do not strike back, hold the resident down to finish shoes, or laugh at the behavior. After safety, report and consider pain, hunger, or overstimulation triggers. For dementia agitation step back deescalate, memorize: pause, space, calm voice, help.
Reveal answer & explanationShow
Correct answer
- AHit the resident's hand away firmly to show who is in charge
- BHold the resident down and finish putting both shoes on
- CLaugh and say the resident has a funny temper
- DStop, move out of reach, speak calmly, and get help if neededCorrect
Basic rationale
Stop the triggering care, step out of reach to protect yourself and the resident, speak calmly, and call for help if needed. Do not strike back or force the shoe on.
Option explanations
- A: Incorrect. Hitting back is abuse and escalates violence.
- B: Incorrect. Forcing the task increases agitation.
- C: Incorrect. Laughing at the behavior is disrespectful and unsafe.
- D: Correct. Protect safety and de-escalate first.
Deep Analysis
Core logic
Aggression during care is often fear or overstimulation. Safety first: pause, create space, de-escalate, then reapproach differently.
Distractor analysis
A: Hitting back is abuse and escalates violence B: Forcing the task increases agitation C: Laughing at the behavior is disrespectful and unsafe
Exam trap
Finishing the shoe feels efficient but is unsafe mid-swing.
Memory tip
Swing during care: stop, step back, calm voice, get help.
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