Communication & CultureQuestion 22 of 200
A CNA notices a resident's blood pressure rose from a baseline 118/76 to 168/96 with new headache. The best way to report this to the nurse is:
a.Write the blood pressure in the chart and pass it along in end-of-shift report
b.'Mr. Lee doesn't look so good today, can you check on him when you get a chance?'
c.SBAR: Situation (BP elevated with headache), Background (baseline 118/76), Assessment (current 168/96, c/o headache), Recommendation (request nurse assessment now)
d.Ask another CNA to mention the blood pressure reading to the nurse after lunch
Explanation
SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) is the standard structured communication tool taught in CNA programs and endorsed by Joint Commission and ANA for safe handoffs. It conveys complete, actionable information so the nurse can prioritize response. Vague reports (b), chart-only documentation (a), and indirect relay (d) delay needed assessment of a possible hypertensive event and place the resident at risk.
Law Reference: ANA Standards of Practice; SBAR communicationThis topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
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