What is the role of a CNA in basic rehabilitation and restorative care?

• A. Provide basic medical diagnosis and adjust medications independently.
• B. Assist with exercises and activities of daily living per the care plan, encourage independence, and report progress or difficulties to the nurse.
• C. Prescribe new rehabilitation programs without nurse approval.
• D. Replace the care plan with personal judgments.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that a CNA supports rehabilitation by helping patients perform prescribed exercises and activities of daily living, while encouraging independence and communicating progress or any difficulties to the nurse. CNAs carry out tasks under the supervision of a licensed nurse or therapist and follow the care plan, which keeps care consistent and focused on safety and function. They help with mobility, basic exercises, and daily tasks as directed, and their notes on how the patient is doing—what’s improving, what’s lagging, any barriers—inform decisions about the ongoing rehab plan. This hands-on support helps patients practice skills, maintain safety, and remain engaged in their recovery.

The CNA role does not include making medical diagnoses, adjusting medications, prescribing rehab programs, or changing the care plan on their own. Those responsibilities belong to licensed clinicians, and any plan changes should come through proper channels.