What should a CNA do before caring for a patient?

Before providing care to a patient, it is essential for a CNA to wash their hands and gather necessary supplies. This practice is a fundamental aspect of infection control and overall patient safety. Washing hands helps to eliminate bacteria and other pathogens that could be transmitted to the patient, thus reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections. It is crucial to adhere to proper hand hygiene protocols before any patient interaction.

Gathering necessary supplies is also important, as this ensures that the caregiver has all the tools needed to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. This preparation allows for a smoother workflow and minimizes interruptions during patient care, which helps maintain the patient's comfort and safety.

While wearing gloves is an important part of protecting both the CNA and the patient, gloves should be worn after proper hand hygiene and when required by the situation or task at hand. Checking the patient’s medical records and reviewing dietary restrictions are important responsibilities but are typically done to inform the planning and execution of care rather than being the immediate first step in the care process. Preparing the environment and the caregiver first lays the groundwork for effective and safe patient care.