Illinois CNA State Practice Exam

While applying a cold compress, when should the CNA report changes promptly?

1. The patient is shivering

2. The patient's skin is cyanotic-bluish discoloration

3. The patient is sweating

4. The patient becomes drowsy

The correct answer is: The patient's skin is cyanotic-bluish discoloration

When applying a cold compress, it is important for the CNA to report changes promptly to the nurse if the patient's skin becomes cyanotic-bluish. This indicates a decrease in blood flow and oxygen and may suggest a potentially serious issue that needs immediate attention from the nurse. The other options, such as the patient shivering, sweating, or becoming drowsy, may not be as urgent and can be addressed by the CNA without reporting to the nurse. Shivering and sweating are normal responses to a cold compress, while drowsiness may simply be a result of the patient's body relaxing. Therefore, B is the most appropriate response as it indicates a change that requires prompt action from the nurse.