Maryland Geriatric Nursing Aide (GNA) Practice Exam

The main idea here is that nursing assistants provide hands-on help with daily living activities and basic care, always under the supervision of a licensed nurse. This includes assisting residents with bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, mobility, turning and positioning, and other daily routines to promote comfort, safety, and independence. NAs may help with simple tasks like measuring basic vital signs or reporting changes in a person’s condition, but they do not diagnose illnesses, perform surgical procedures, or prescribe medications. Those responsibilities require licensed clinicians such as RNs or physicians. By focusing on everyday support and safe care, the NA helps residents maintain dignity and well-being while ensuring any concerns are promptly communicated to the supervising nurse.