What is the CNA's role in wound care?

• A. Change dressings independently without supervision.
• B. Prescribe antibiotics.
• C. Observe for signs of infection and maintain cleanliness around the wound; do not treat wounds unless trained.
• D. Diagnose infection.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that a CNA’s role in wound care is supportive and observational, focusing on cleanliness and monitoring rather than making medical decisions. The best approach is for the CNA to observe for signs of infection and keep the area around the wound clean, following the care plan and facility policies. This means using proper hand hygiene and gloves, preventing contamination, and reporting any changes promptly to the nurse or supervisor.

CNAs help by watching for telltale signs of infection—such as increased redness spreading beyond the wound, warmth, swelling, more or thicker drainage, foul odor, or increasing pain. They keep the wound environment clean and dry, assist with dressing changes only as trained and directed, and document observations so the nurse can evaluate whether an order needs to be adjusted. They do not diagnose infection or prescribe treatments; those decisions stay with licensed staff who have the authority to assess the wound and order medications or additional care.