7.3 Dressing, Weak Side Care, and Comfort Measures

Dressing With Weakness

The classic CNA rule is: dress the weak side first, undress the strong side first. This reduces pulling on the affected side and makes the task easier.

For example, if a resident has right-sided weakness after a stroke:

• Put the right arm into the shirt first.
• Then put the left arm in.
• When removing the shirt, remove the left arm first.
• Then remove the right arm.

Resident Choice

Residents have the right to choose clothing when safe. Offer choices rather than taking over.

Good CNA language:

• "Would you like the blue sweater or the gray one?"
• "Do you want to wash your face first or brush your teeth first?"
• "I can help with the buttons if you want."

Comfort Measures

Comfort care includes:

• Repositioning.
• Smooth, dry linens.
• Warm blanket if allowed.
• Range-of-motion support if assigned.
• Reporting pain.
• Offering fluids if allowed.
• Reducing noise.
• Keeping needed items within reach.

CNAs do not give pain medication, but they report pain promptly and observe nonverbal signs.

Protecting Joints

Do not force an arm, leg, or hand into clothing. Support the limb and move gently. If pain, resistance, or new swelling occurs, stop and report.

Exam Tip

If the resident can do part of the task, encourage independence. Doing everything for the resident may be faster, but it weakens independence and may be the wrong exam answer.