Scope of Practice

Exam Focus Areas

On the Cna Nnaap, Medical Assistant, Nremt Emt, Nremt Paramedic exam(s), questions about scope of practice typically test:

1. Observations that must be reported to the nurse immediately
2. Proper procedure for activities of daily living (ADLs)
3. Resident rights and appropriate responses to violations
4. Body mechanics and safe transfer techniques

Equipment & Tools

Legally defined activities a healthcare professional is authorized to perform. Critical legal concept tested on CNA, MA, EMT, and Paramedic exams.

Resident care connections: Right to access personal records and facility survey results. Right to privacy for personal care, mail, phone conversations, medical information.

Key Values & Ranges

Legally defined activities a healthcare professional is authorized to perform. Critical legal concept tested on CNA, MA, EMT, and Paramedic exams.

Resident care connections: Right to communicate freely with phone access, mail unopened, visitors at reasonable hours. Right to access personal records and facility survey results.

Assessment Techniques

Assessment observations for scope of practice that must be reported to the nurse:

• Fall risk factors: history of falls, medications (sedatives, diuretics), mobility impairment, cognitive decline
• Weight changes: report gain/loss of 2+ lbs in a day or 5+ lbs in a week
• Report to nurse: elevated temperature, blood pressure outside baseline, new pain, skin breakdown
• Behavioral changes: new confusion, agitation, refusing meals, sleep pattern changes
• Skin observations: color changes, redness over bony prominences, bruising, open areas, edema

Workplace Applications

Applying scope of practice in daily practice as a nursing assistant:

• Right to be free from restraints (physical and chemical) except for documented medical necessity
• Right to be treated with dignity and respect at all times
• Right to manage own financial affairs or choose a representative
• Cultural sensitivity: respect food preferences, spiritual practices, family dynamics
• For hearing-impaired: face the resident, speak clearly (not louder), reduce background noise
• Avoid false reassurance (do not say everything will be fine), acknowledge feelings instead