Legal & EthicalQuestion 167 of 200
Which of the following is OUTSIDE a California CNA's scope of practice?
a.Assisting with bathing, toileting, ambulation, and feeding
b.Administering an injectable medication or performing initial nursing assessment
c.Measuring and recording vital signs
d.Reporting changes in resident condition to the licensed nurse
Explanation
Under HSC §1337-1338 and Title 22 CCR §71835, a California CNA performs basic nursing services under the supervision of a licensed nurse: ADLs, vital signs, intake/output, ambulation, observation, and reporting. CNAs DO NOT administer injectable or oral medications (a Certified Medication Aide/CMA is a separate credential), do not perform sterile procedures, do not insert/remove catheters except as specifically delegated, do not perform initial admission nursing assessments, and do not give telephone/verbal orders. Working outside scope is grounds for CDPH discipline, civil liability, and possibly criminal practice without a license.
Law Reference: HSC §1337; HSC §1338; Title 22 CCR §71835Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- A nurse asks a CNA to start an IV on a new admission because the unit is short-staffed. The CNA should:
- Why is the documentation principle 'not documented = not done' important?
- Under HIPAA's 'minimum necessary' standard (45 CFR §164.502(b)), a CNA should access protected health information (PHI):
- Under HIPAA 45 CFR §164.512, a CNA may disclose PHI WITHOUT the resident's written authorization in which situation?
- A resident asks the CNA for a copy of her own medical record. The correct CNA response is:
- A CNA posts a TikTok video taken in the nursing facility hallway. Two residents appear in the background, identifiable by face. This is:
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CNA Certification Exam · How we review