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Applying knee-high elastic stockings: CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

With the resident lying down, turn the stocking inside-out down to the heel, slip it over the foot and heel, then roll it up the leg so it is smooth with no wrinkles, twists or rolled tops. The heel should be in the heel pocket and the toe opening placed as designed.

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 6 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. 6Raise the bed to a comfortable working height, lock the wheels and have the resident lying down.
  7. 7Expose only one leg at a time.
  8. 8Turn the stocking inside-out down to the heel.
  9. 9Place the foot of the stocking over the toes, foot and heel, with the heel centered in the heel pocket.
  10. 10Pull the top of the stocking up over the foot, heel and leg, moving the leg gently and supporting it.
  11. 11Key step: Make sure the stocking is smooth, with no twists or wrinkles, and the top is not rolled down.
  12. 12Check that the toe opening (if any) is positioned correctly and the toes are not pinched.
  13. 13Check skin color and warmth of the toes and report problems.
  14. 14Key step: Return the bed to its lowest position and make sure the wheels are locked.
  15. 15Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.
  16. 16Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.

Common mistakes

  • Applying stockings while the resident is standing or after legs have swollen.
  • Leaving wrinkles or a rolled top, which restricts circulation.
  • Heel not in the heel pocket.
  • Pulling the leg roughly.

Quick answers

Why are elastic stockings applied while the resident is lying down?
Legs are least swollen when the resident has been lying down, so the stockings fit properly and help circulation.
Why do wrinkles matter?
Wrinkles and rolled tops create pressure points that can damage skin and reduce blood flow.

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.