Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

What does it mean to ambulate a resident?

1. Help someone bathe

2. Help someone walk

3. Assist someone in sitting down

4. Guide someone in stretching exercises

The correct answer is: Help someone walk

Ambulating a resident refers to assisting them in walking. This involves supporting the individual as they move from one place to another, which is critical for maintaining mobility, promoting independence, and preventing complications related to immobility, such as muscle atrophy and pressure ulcers. Proper techniques during ambulation ensure the safety of both the resident and the caregiver. It's important to note that while helping someone bathe, assisting them in sitting down, and guiding them in stretching exercises are all important aspects of a caregiver's role, they do not specifically denote the act of walking. Therefore, these options do not accurately capture the definition of ambulation. Understanding the terminology in a healthcare context is essential for effective communication and quality care.