INACE Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield INACE facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When should documentation of a service or intervention be completed? → As soon as possible after the service is provided
2. When using the FACES pain scale, which patient would this tool be MOST appropriate for? → A child or patient who cannot verbally communicate a numeric rating
3. How should you assist a patient who is unsteady on their feet and at risk of falling? → Use a gait belt to provide support while walking.
4. A newly hired nurse aide observes a long-term coworker skipping hand hygiene between resident rooms. The appropriate action is to: → Politely mention it or report it to the charge nurse as an infection control concern
5. Which type of medication error occurs when a nurse aide gives the correct drug but at the wrong time? → Wrong time error
6. After a seizure ends, the NA should place the resident in which position? → Lateral (recovery) position to maintain airway
7. Which of the following is an example of subjective data that the nurse aide should report? → The resident states she has a headache
8. What does the term 'care plan' describe in long-term care documentation? → A written document outlining individualized goals and approaches for a resident's care
9. A nurse aide is asked by a supervisor to do something that violates the resident's rights. The nurse aide should: → Refuse and report the situation to a higher authority
10. A resident with an indwelling urinary catheter has urine that appears cloudy with a foul odor. The nursing assistant should: → Report the findings to the nurse immediately
11. What does the term 'flow sheet' refer to in long-term care documentation? → A preprinted form used to record routine care such as vital signs and ADLs
12. When repositioning a resident to prevent pressure injuries, the nursing assistant should change the resident's position at minimum every: → 2 hours
13. A resident is found choking and cannot cough, speak, or breathe. The NA should perform abdominal thrusts on which population? → Conscious adults who are not pregnant or obese
14. When a nurse aide witnesses an incident involving a resident, proper documentation should be: → Objective, factual, and completed promptly after the incident
15. A nurse aide is asked by a supervisor to perform a task they have not been trained to perform. The aide should: → Inform the supervisor they have not been trained and decline until properly trained
16. When a resident in restraints calls for help and the call light is unanswered, the nurse aide who passes the room should: → Stop and respond to the resident immediately
17. Which document legally designates another person to make healthcare decisions for a resident who becomes incapacitated? → Durable power of attorney for healthcare
18. When documenting medication administration, which information is most essential to record? → The time, dose, route, and any resident response
19. Which of the following is a common side effect of many narcotic pain medications that nurse aides should monitor for in residents? → Constipation
20. Which technique helps when communicating with a patient who has dementia? → Using their name and one simple idea at a time
21. Which adaptive device would most help a patient with limited hand grip to eat independently? → Built-up handled utensils with thick grips
22. Which of the following actions breaks the chain of infection at the 'mode of transmission' link? → Wearing gloves and washing hands between patient contacts
23. A resident on a blood thinner has a deep laceration that is bleeding heavily. The NA should apply: → Direct pressure with a clean cloth or gloved hand and call for help
24. A patient with hearing loss is trying to communicate with you. What is the most effective approach? → Face the patient directly and speak clearly at a normal pace
25. A nursing assistant notices a patient's drainage tube is putting out less fluid than usual and the patient's abdomen appears more distended. This should be: → Reported to the nurse immediately as it may indicate a blockage
26. In electronic health records (EHR), what is the purpose of a unique login for each staff member? → To ensure accountability and maintain a clear audit trail
27. What is the correct angle and direction when moving a joint during ROM exercises? → Move the joint gently to just before the point of resistance
28. A patient repeatedly asks the same question due to memory loss. The nurse aide should: → Answer calmly and patiently each time as if it is the first time
29. Which is an example of financial exploitation of a resident? → Borrowing money from a resident with a promise to repay later
30. When a resident is using a mechanical lift for transfer, the sling should be: → Removed when it is safe to do so per facility policy