Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

The primary role of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is to provide basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. This encompasses a variety of tasks that support daily living activities and promote patient comfort and hygiene. CNAs are trained to assist with essential functions such as bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, and mobility for patients, particularly those who may be elderly, disabled, or recovering from surgery.

The supervision by registered nurses ensures that CNAs operate within a structured healthcare framework, following established protocols and guidelines. This collaboration is vital for the comprehensive care and well-being of patients, as CNAs often spend more time with them than other healthcare providers and can communicate valuable observations regarding their condition.

In contrast, administering medications is typically the responsibility of licensed nursing personnel, such as registered nurses or licensed practical nurses, who have the necessary training and authorization to do so. Similarly, performing surgical procedures is solely within the scope of trained surgeons and medical specialists and falls outside the CNA's duties. Developing care plans is a more advanced task that requires comprehensive clinical training, typically conducted by nurses or other healthcare professionals who can assess the overall needs of the patient based on medical evaluations.