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Modified bed bath (face, arm, hand and underarm): CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

Check the water temperature, wash the eyes from inner to outer corner without soap using a different area of the cloth for each eye, then wash the face, and wash, rinse and pat dry the arm, hand and underarm while keeping the resident covered.

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. 6Raise the bed to a comfortable working height and lock the wheels.
  7. 7Key step: Remove the resident's gown and cover them with a bath blanket, keeping them covered except for the area being washed.
  8. 8Key step: Fill a basin with warm water and check the temperature to be sure it is safe and comfortable.
  9. 9Key step: Wash the eyes with water only, from the inner corner to the outer corner, using a different area of the washcloth for each eye.
  10. 10Wash the face (with soap only if the resident wishes), rinse and pat dry.
  11. 11Place a towel under the arm. Wash the arm, hand and underarm with soap, rinse and pat dry, supporting the arm at the elbow and wrist.
  12. 12Put a clean gown on the resident.
  13. 13Empty and rinse the basin and place used linen in the proper container.
  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

  • Using soap on the eyes or wiping outer to inner.
  • Not checking water temperature.
  • Leaving the resident uncovered.
  • Rubbing skin dry instead of patting.

Quick answers

Which direction do you wash the eyes?
From the inner corner (near the nose) to the outer corner, using a clean part of the washcloth for each eye.
Should soap be used on the face?
Ask the resident. Many people prefer only water on the face. Never use soap on the eyes.

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.