Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

Which action by the nurse aide is most effective in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in residents?

1. Wipe from front to back to clean the perineal area

2. Encourage frequent fluid intake

3. Limit bathroom breaks

4. Use antibacterial wipes

The correct answer is: Wipe from front to back to clean the perineal area

Wiping from front to back after toileting is a crucial practice for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially in residents. This technique helps to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra. When the urethra becomes contaminated with bacteria, it can lead to infections. The anatomical proximity of these areas makes it imperative to maintain proper hygiene practices; thus, the direction of wiping plays an essential role in infection prevention. While encouraging frequent fluid intake is also beneficial, as it promotes urination and flushes out bacteria, it doesn't specifically target the method of cleaning that directly influences the risk of introducing bacteria into the urinary tract. Limiting bathroom breaks can increase the risk of developing infections by promoting urinary retention, which can allow bacteria to proliferate. Using antibacterial wipes might provide some surface sanitation; however, they may not sufficiently prevent bacterial introduction to the urinary tract compared to the critical action of proper wiping technique. Therefore, the method of cleansing from front to back is the most effective preventive measure in this context.