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Feeding a dependent resident: CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

Check that the tray matches the resident and their ordered diet, sit the resident upright (as close to 90 degrees as possible), sit at eye level, offer small bites and sips at the resident's pace, then wipe the mouth and record the percentage eaten and fluids taken.

Your state's nurse aide candidate handbook is the authority on exam format, skills lists and scoring. This page explains the general picture and links the official sources.

Steps

KEYmarks 8 steps that candidate handbooks commonly treat as critical. Missing a critical step usually fails the skill.

  1. 1Knock, introduce yourself by name and title, and greet the resident by name.
  2. 2Identify the resident (for example, check the name band or ask the resident to state their name) per facility policy.
  3. 3Explain the procedure in simple words and ask the resident to help as much as they are able.
  4. 4Key step: Provide privacy: close the door and pull the curtain.
  5. 5Key step: Perform hand hygiene before touching the resident.
  6. 6Key step: Check the diet card against the resident's identity and the food on the tray.
  7. 7Help the resident wash or clean their hands before eating.
  8. 8Key step: Position the resident sitting upright, as close to 90 degrees as possible.
  9. 9Place a napkin or clothing protector if the resident wishes.
  10. 10Sit facing the resident at eye level.
  11. 11Tell the resident what foods are on the tray and ask what they would like first.
  12. 12Key step: Offer small bites, making sure each one is swallowed before the next, and alternate food with sips of fluid.
  13. 13Talk with the resident and let them set the pace; watch for coughing or trouble swallowing.
  14. 14Wipe the resident's mouth and hands at the end of the meal.
  15. 15Leave the resident upright for the time required by policy after eating.
  16. 16Key step: Record the percentage of food eaten and the fluids taken.
  17. 17Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.
  18. 18Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.

Common mistakes

  • Feeding a resident who is reclined or lying down.
  • Standing over the resident instead of sitting at eye level.
  • Rushing, or offering a new bite before the last was swallowed.
  • Not checking the diet card.
  • Forgetting to record intake.

Quick answers

What position should a resident be in for feeding?
Upright, as close to 90 degrees as possible, to reduce the risk of choking and aspiration.
What should I do if the resident coughs or chokes?
Stop feeding. If they can cough or speak, let them cough. If they cannot breathe or speak, call for help and follow your choking emergency training.

What to do next

Skills and the written test are scored separately, and you must pass both. Check your written readiness in about 15 minutes.

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Related

Sources

Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.