After washing hands a second time, what should the CNA do next?

• A. Offer fluid to moisten mouth before offering food
• B. Apply clothing protector before feeding
• C. Maintain eye level contact with resident while feeding
• D. Use spoon to feed

Answer: (B)

Protecting the resident’s clothing before feeding is essential. After hand hygiene, placing a clothing protector around the neck creates a barrier to catch spills and stains, helping keep the resident clean and comfortable and preserving dignity during the meal. While offering fluids to moisten the mouth, maintaining eye-level contact, or using a spoon are important parts of feeding, they come after you’ve prepared the meal environment with the protector.