CNA Communication Skills: Interactive Dialogues for Elderly Patient Care
Introduction
These dialogues represent realistic scenarios you’ll encounter as a Certified Nursing Assistant working with elderly patients. Each dialogue demonstrates professional, empathetic communication while maintaining appropriate boundaries. Practice these conversations to build confidence and natural language skills.
Dialogue 1: Morning Greeting and Vital Signs
Setting: A nursing home room, 7:00 AM
CNA Maria: Good morning, Mr. Johnson! How did you sleep last night?
Mr. Johnson: Oh, not too well, I’m afraid. My back was bothering me again.
CNA Maria: I’m sorry to hear that. I’ll make a note of it and let the nurse know. Right now, I need to check your vital signs. Is that okay with you?
Mr. Johnson: Sure, go ahead.
CNA Maria: Thank you. I’m going to put this blood pressure cuff on your arm now. You might feel a little squeeze.
Mr. Johnson: That’s fine, dear. You’re always so gentle.
CNA Maria: I appreciate that, Mr. Johnson. Your blood pressure is 128 over 82 today—that’s looking good. Now I’ll just take your temperature. Please keep this thermometer under your tongue for a moment.
Mr. Johnson: Waits quietly
CNA Maria: Perfect. Your temperature is normal at 98.4 degrees. How’s your pain level right now, on a scale from zero to ten, with ten being the worst pain?
Mr. Johnson: I’d say it’s about a five or six.
CNA Maria: Okay, I’ll document that and speak with the nurse right away. Would you like some help getting to the bathroom before breakfast?
Mr. Johnson: Yes, please. These old legs don’t work like they used to.
CNA Maria: Take your time. I’m here to help you. Let me get your walker ready, and we’ll go together.
Dialogue 2: Assisting with Bathing
Setting: Patient bathroom, morning routine
CNA James: Good morning, Mrs. Peterson. I’m here to help you with your bath today. Are you ready?
Mrs. Peterson: I suppose so, though I hate needing help with this.
CNA James: I understand that this can feel uncomfortable. Many people feel the same way. But I want you to know that I’m a professional, and I’m here to make sure you’re safe and comfortable. Your privacy and dignity are very important to me.
Mrs. Peterson: Well, thank you for saying that.
CNA James: Of course. I’ll explain everything before I do it, okay? First, let me help you remove your robe. I’ll give you this towel to cover yourself.
Mrs. Peterson: Alright.
CNA James: The water temperature is warm—let me know if it’s too hot or too cold. I’m going to start washing your back now.
Mrs. Peterson: That feels nice, actually. Not too hot.
CNA James: Good, I’m glad. I’ll work quickly so you don’t get chilly. You let me know immediately if anything feels uncomfortable.
Mrs. Peterson: You’re very respectful, James. I appreciate that.
CNA James: That’s my job, and you deserve to be treated with respect. Now, I can help you wash your private areas, or if you prefer, I can hand you the washcloth and you can do it yourself while I stand right here in case you need assistance.
Mrs. Peterson: I think I can manage that part myself.
CNA James: Perfect. Here’s the cloth and soap. Take your time, and let me know when you’re ready for me to help you rinse off.
Dialogue 3: Medication Time with a Confused Patient
Setting: Patient room, afternoon medication round
CNA Sarah: Hello, Mrs. Williams! It’s time for your afternoon medications.
Mrs. Williams: Who are you? Where’s my daughter?
CNA Sarah: My name is Sarah, and I’m your nursing assistant. Your daughter visited yesterday afternoon, remember? She’ll be back to see you tomorrow.
Mrs. Williams: I don’t remember that. I want to go home.
CNA Sarah: I know this isn’t your home, and that must be confusing sometimes. You’re at Sunny Acres Nursing Home, and we’re taking good care of you here. Right now, I have your medications that the doctor ordered to help you feel better.
Mrs. Williams: I don’t want any pills!
CNA Sarah: I understand you’re upset. These medications are important for your health. This little white pill is for your blood pressure, and this one helps with your heart. The nurse prepared them especially for you.
Mrs. Williams: My heart is fine!
CNA Sarah: I know you feel that way, but the doctor wants to make sure it stays healthy. How about we take them together, and then I’ll help you with a nice snack? Would you like some juice or water with your pills?
Mrs. Williams: Sighs Apple juice, I suppose.
CNA Sarah: Apple juice is an excellent choice. Here you go. Hands pills and juice Can you swallow these for me?
Mrs. Williams: Takes medications There. Happy now?
CNA Sarah: Thank you so much for cooperating, Mrs. Williams. You did great. Now, let me get you those crackers you like.
Dialogue 4: Meal Assistance
Setting: Dining room, lunch time
CNA David: Hi there, Mr. Chen! Ready for lunch today?
Mr. Chen: Hello, David. Yes, but my hands are shaking too much. I’ll make a mess.
CNA David: That’s okay—that’s why I’m here. I’ll help you. Let’s see what’s on the menu today. You have chicken soup, mashed potatoes, green beans, and pudding for dessert.
Mr. Chen: The soup smells good, but it’s embarrassing to be fed like a baby.
CNA David: Mr. Chen, you’re not a baby—you’re a person who needs some assistance right now. There’s no shame in that. We all need help sometimes. Would you like to try holding the spoon while I guide your hand, or would you prefer I feed you?
Mr. Chen: Maybe you could feed me today. My tremors are really bad.
CNA David: No problem at all. I’ll go at your pace. Let me know if I’m going too fast or too slow. Here’s a spoonful of soup—careful, it’s a little hot. How does that taste?
Mr. Chen: Good. Very good.
CNA David: Wonderful. I’ll blow on the next spoonful to cool it down a bit. Blows gently There we go. Is that better?
Mr. Chen: Yes, thank you. You’re very patient with me.
CNA David: You’re very welcome. Take your time chewing—there’s no rush. Would you like to try some mashed potatoes next?
Mr. Chen: Yes, please.
CNA David: Here you go. Nice and soft, easy to swallow. You’re doing great, Mr. Chen.
Dialogue 5: Responding to Pain Complaints
Setting: Patient room, mid-morning
CNA Lisa: Good morning, Mrs. Thompson. I’m here to check on you. How are you feeling today?
Mrs. Thompson: Oh Lisa, my hip is killing me. The pain is terrible!
CNA Lisa: I’m so sorry you’re in pain. That must be really difficult. Can you tell me more about it? Where exactly does it hurt?
Mrs. Thompson: Right here, on my left side. It’s a sharp, stabbing pain.
CNA Lisa: Okay, sharp and stabbing on your left hip. On a scale of zero to ten, how bad is the pain right now?
Mrs. Thompson: It’s at least an eight. I can barely move.
CNA Lisa: That sounds very uncomfortable. When did this pain start?
Mrs. Thompson: It’s been bad since last night, but it got much worse this morning.
CNA Lisa: Alright. I’m going to inform the nurse immediately so we can help you. Have you taken any pain medication yet today?
Mrs. Thompson: No, not yet.
CNA Lisa: Let me check your chart and see when you’re due for your next dose. In the meantime, is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable? Would you like me to adjust your pillows or help you change positions?
Mrs. Thompson: Maybe some pillows under my leg would help.
CNA Lisa: Absolutely. Let me get some extra pillows. I’ll be very gentle. Carefully places pillows How does that feel?
Mrs. Thompson: A little better, thank you.
CNA Lisa: Good. I’m going to speak with the nurse right now about your pain medication. I’ll be back very soon. Please use your call button if the pain gets worse or if you need anything else before I return.
Mrs. Thompson: Thank you, Lisa. You’re an angel.
Dialogue 6: Assisting with Toileting
Setting: Patient room, responding to call light
CNA Marcus: Hello, Mr. Rodriguez. I saw your call light. What can I help you with?
Mr. Rodriguez: I need to use the bathroom urgently!
CNA Marcus: Okay, no problem. Let’s get you there safely. Are you having any dizziness right now?
Mr. Rodriguez: No, but please hurry!
CNA Marcus: I understand. We’ll move as quickly as we can while staying safe. Let me help you sit up first. Assists patient Good. Now I’m going to help you stand. On the count of three—one, two, three. Great job. Do you need your walker?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes, please.
CNA Marcus: Here it is. I’m right beside you. Take your time, but I know you need to hurry. We’re almost there. Arrives at bathroom Do you need help with your clothing?
Mr. Rodriguez: I can manage, but stay close please.
CNA Marcus: Absolutely. I’ll be right outside the door. Call me when you’re finished, or if you need any help. I’ll leave the door slightly open so I can hear you, okay?
Mr. Rodriguez: Okay, thank you.
CNA Marcus: Take your time. I’m not going anywhere.
Several minutes later
Mr. Rodriguez: Marcus, I’m ready.
CNA Marcus: Coming in now. Did everything go alright?
Mr. Rodriguez: Yes, but I feel a bit weak.
CNA Marcus: That’s okay. Let me help you wash your hands first, and then we’ll get you back to bed safely. There’s no rush.
Dialogue 7: Managing Refusal of Care
Setting: Patient room, afternoon
CNA Emily: Good afternoon, Mr. Kowalski. It’s time for your walk in the hallway. The physical therapist wants you to walk at least twice a day.
Mr. Kowalski: I don’t want to walk today. I’m too tired.
CNA Emily: I understand you’re feeling tired. Can you tell me what’s making you feel that way?
Mr. Kowalski: I just don’t sleep well at night, and I don’t see the point of all this walking anyway.
CNA Emily: That must be frustrating. I’m sorry you’re not sleeping well—I’ll mention that to the nurse. The walking is important because it helps keep your muscles strong and improves your circulation. It can actually help you sleep better too.
Mr. Kowalski: I still don’t want to do it.
CNA Emily: I hear you. What if we made it shorter today? Instead of walking to the end of the hall, how about we just walk to the nurse’s station and back? That’s half the distance.
Mr. Kowalski: I don’t know…
CNA Emily: We could also stop by the window—the one that overlooks the garden. The flowers are really beautiful right now. You might enjoy seeing them.
Mr. Kowalski: Well, I do like flowers…
CNA Emily: Great! Let’s give it a try. If you’re really too tired, we can stop and come back. But I think you might feel better after moving around a bit. What do you say?
Mr. Kowalski: Alright, but just to the nurse’s station.
CNA Emily: Perfect. That’s a great compromise. Let me help you get your slippers on, and we’ll take this nice and slow.
Dialogue 8: Dealing with a Fall
Setting: Hallway, emergency situation
CNA Rachel: Sees Mrs. Garcia on the floor Mrs. Garcia! Are you alright? Don’t try to move yet.
Mrs. Garcia: I fell… I was trying to reach the bathroom…
CNA Rachel: I’m right here with you. Stay still for a moment while I check if you’re hurt. Presses call button I’m calling for help. Can you tell me where it hurts?
Mrs. Garcia: My wrist… and my hip on this side.
CNA Rachel: Okay. I’m not going to move you until the nurse gets here. Did you hit your head when you fell?
Mrs. Garcia: I don’t think so.
CNA Rachel: Good. Can you wiggle your toes for me? Checks Excellent. Now your fingers? Checks Great. The nurse will be here any second. You’re doing fine, Mrs. Garcia.
Nurse: Arrives What happened?
CNA Rachel: Mrs. Garcia had a fall. She’s complaining of pain in her left wrist and left hip. No reported head injury. She has full movement in fingers and toes. She was found approximately one minute ago.
Nurse: Good assessment. Mrs. Garcia, we’re going to check you over carefully before we move you. Rachel, can you get the blood pressure cuff?
CNA Rachel: Right away. Returns with equipment Mrs. Garcia, I’m going to take your blood pressure and pulse now.
Mrs. Garcia: I’m so embarrassed…
CNA Rachel: Please don’t be embarrassed. Falls happen, and we’re here to help you. You did the right thing by not trying to get up on your own.
Dialogue 9: Evening Care and Bedtime Routine
Setting: Patient room, 8:00 PM
CNA Tom: Good evening, Miss Anderson. How was your dinner?
Miss Anderson: It was fine, dear. I’m getting ready for bed now.
CNA Tom: Perfect timing. I’m here to help you with your bedtime routine. Have you used the bathroom yet?
Miss Anderson: Yes, I just came back.
CNA Tom: Great. Would you like help changing into your nightgown?
Miss Anderson: Yes, please. My shoulders are stiff today.
CNA Tom: I’ll be gentle. Let me help you with your shirt first. Assists carefully How are your shoulders feeling now?
Miss Anderson: A bit sore, but manageable.
CNA Tom: I’ll note that. Now, let’s get your nightgown on. There we go. Would you like me to brush your hair before bed?
Miss Anderson: Oh, would you? That would be lovely.
CNA Tom: Of course. Brushes gently You have beautiful hair, Miss Anderson. Is this pressure okay?
Miss Anderson: It’s perfect. Very relaxing.
CNA Tom: Good. Now, do you need help brushing your teeth?
Miss Anderson: I can do that myself, thank you.
CNA Tom: Wonderful. Here’s your toothbrush and toothpaste. I’ll wait here. Patient brushes teeth All done? Great. Now let me help you into bed. Do you want extra blankets tonight?
Miss Anderson: Just one extra, please. I get cold at night.
CNA Tom: Here you go. Tucks in patient Is that comfortable? Do you need your pillows adjusted?
Miss Anderson: Could you raise the head of the bed just a little?
CNA Tom: Absolutely. Adjusts bed How’s that?
Miss Anderson: Perfect. Thank you, Tom.
CNA Tom: You’re welcome. Your water is here on the bedside table, and your call button is right here within reach. Is there anything else you need before I go?
Miss Anderson: No, I’m all set. Good night.
CNA Tom: Good night, Miss Anderson. Sleep well. I’ll check on you later.
Dialogue 10: Communicating with a Hard-of-Hearing Patient
Setting: Patient room, afternoon activities
CNA Jennifer: Approaches from the front, waves Hello, Mr. Patterson!
Mr. Patterson: What? I can’t hear you!
CNA Jennifer: Speaks clearly, facing him directly HELLO, MR. PATTERSON. Speaks at normal volume but clearly May I sit down so we can talk?
Mr. Patterson: Oh yes, please sit. I can see you better that way.
CNA Jennifer: Sits facing patient Do you have your hearing aids in?
Mr. Patterson: What did you say?
CNA Jennifer: Points to her ear Your hearing aids—are they in?
Mr. Patterson: Oh! No, they’re in the drawer. They bother me.
CNA Jennifer: Opens drawer, shows hearing aids These help you hear better. May I help you put them in?
Mr. Patterson: I suppose so.
CNA Jennifer: Carefully inserts hearing aids How does that feel?
Mr. Patterson: A bit uncomfortable, but okay.
CNA Jennifer: Can you hear me better now?
Mr. Patterson: Yes, much better!
CNA Jennifer: Wonderful. I came to ask if you’d like to join the music activity in the common room this afternoon.
Mr. Patterson: Music? What kind of music?
CNA Jennifer: They’re playing songs from the 1950s and 60s. Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, music from your generation.
Mr. Patterson: Oh, I love that music! What time?
CNA Jennifer: In thirty minutes, at 2:00 PM. Would you like me to help you get ready?
Mr. Patterson: Yes, please. I’d like to comb my hair and change my shirt.
CNA Jennifer: Great! Let’s get you looking sharp for the activity.
Dialogue 11: Addressing Anxiety and Worry
Setting: Patient room, late afternoon
CNA Michael: Hi, Mrs. Lee. I noticed you didn’t come to the dining room for afternoon snack. Are you okay?
Mrs. Lee: I’m just worried, Michael. I can’t stop thinking about my son. He usually calls every day, but I haven’t heard from him since yesterday.
CNA Michael: I can see this is really bothering you. It’s hard when we don’t hear from our loved ones when we expect to.
Mrs. Lee: What if something happened to him? What if he’s in an accident?
CNA Michael: Those worried thoughts can feel very real and scary. But let’s think about this together. Has your son ever missed calling you before?
Mrs. Lee: Well, yes, sometimes when he’s very busy at work.
CNA Michael: That’s a good point. It’s possible he’s just having a busy day. When did he usually call?
Mrs. Lee: In the evening, after work.
CNA Michael: It’s only 4:00 PM now. He might still call this evening like usual. Would you like me to check if there are any messages for you at the front desk?
Mrs. Lee: Would you? That would make me feel better.
CNA Michael: Absolutely. I’ll check right now. Returns a few minutes later Mrs. Lee, the receptionist said your son called this afternoon and left a message. He’s working late today and will call you around 7:00 PM tonight.
Mrs. Lee: Oh, thank goodness! I feel so much better now.
CNA Michael: I’m glad. It’s completely normal to worry about the people we love. How about I bring you some tea and crackers? You missed your snack.
Mrs. Lee: That sounds nice. Thank you for being so understanding, Michael.
CNA Michael: Of course. That’s what I’m here for. I’ll be right back with your snack.
Dialogue 12: Assisting with Physical Therapy Exercises
Setting: Patient room, morning exercises
CNA Nicole: Good morning, Mrs. Jackson! The physical therapist left these exercises for you to do every morning. I’m here to help you with them.
Mrs. Jackson: Oh, those exercises! They’re so difficult.
CNA Nicole: I know they can be challenging, but they’re helping you get stronger. We’ll do them together, and we can go at your pace. Ready to start?
Mrs. Jackson: I suppose so. What do I do first?
CNA Nicole: First, we’ll do some ankle circles. You can stay sitting on the edge of the bed for this one. Lift your right foot slightly and make circles with your ankle—like you’re drawing circles in the air with your toes.
Mrs. Jackson: Moves ankle Like this?
CNA Nicole: Perfect! That’s exactly right. Let’s do ten circles in one direction. I’ll count with you. One, two, three…
Mrs. Jackson: This isn’t so bad.
CNA Nicole: You’re doing great! Now let’s do ten circles the other way. Good! Now let’s do the same thing with your left ankle.
Mrs. Jackson: Okay. Completes exercise
CNA Nicole: Excellent work! Next, we’ll do some knee lifts. While sitting, lift your right knee up toward your chest as high as you can.
Mrs. Jackson: Lifts knee This is harder!
CNA Nicole: You’re doing fine. Hold it for three seconds if you can. One, two, three. Good! Now rest. We’ll do five of these on each side.
Mrs. Jackson: I don’t know if I can do five…
CNA Nicole: Let’s try for three on each side today. That’s still wonderful progress. Remember, you’re getting stronger every day.
Mrs. Jackson: Okay, I’ll try.
CNA Nicole: That’s the spirit! I’m proud of your effort, Mrs. Jackson.
Dialogue 13: End-of-Life Care Conversation
Setting: Private patient room, quiet afternoon
CNA Karen: Speaks softly Hello, Mr. Morrison. May I come in?
Mr. Morrison: Weakly Yes, please.
CNA Karen: Sits beside bed How are you feeling right now?
Mr. Morrison: Tired. Very tired. I think my time is coming soon.
CNA Karen: Takes his hand gently I’m here with you. You’re not alone. Are you in any pain right now?
Mr. Morrison: No, not really. Just… ready to rest.
CNA Karen: That’s understandable. Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable? Would you like me to adjust your pillows?
Mr. Morrison: No, I’m comfortable. Could you… read to me? My eyes are too tired.
CNA Karen: Of course. What would you like me to read?
Mr. Morrison: That book of poems on the table. My wife used to read them to me.
CNA Karen: Picks up book gently This one? It’s beautiful. I’ll read to you. Reads softly and slowly
Mr. Morrison: Thank you. That’s nice.
CNA Karen: Would you like me to contact anyone? Your daughter, perhaps?
Mr. Morrison: She was here this morning. I’m okay for now.
CNA Karen: Alright. I’ll stay here with you as long as you’d like. Just rest and listen.
Mr. Morrison: You’re very kind.
CNA Karen: Continues reading softly, occasionally pausing to check comfort
Dialogue 14: Handling Aggressive Behavior
Setting: Patient room, mid-morning
CNA Robert: Good morning, Mr. Davis. I’m here to help you get dressed.
Mr. Davis: Get out! I don’t want you here! Leave me alone!
CNA Robert: Stays calm, keeps distance I understand you’re upset right now, Mr. Davis. I’m going to step back and give you some space.
Mr. Davis: I said get out! Raises his fist
CNA Robert: Maintains calm voice, moves toward door I can see you’re very angry. I’m not going to force you to do anything. I’m here to help when you’re ready.
Mr. Davis: Nobody listens to me! You all treat me like a child!
CNA Robert: Speaks softly I’m listening to you right now, Mr. Davis. I hear that you’re frustrated. Can you tell me what’s bothering you?
Mr. Davis: Lowers fist slightly I’m tired of people telling me what to do all day long!
CNA Robert: That must be very frustrating. You’re used to making your own decisions.
Mr. Davis: Yes! I ran my own business for forty years!
CNA Robert: That’s impressive. You were independent and in charge. I can understand why it’s hard to have people helping you with everything now.
Mr. Davis: Calms down slightly Yes, exactly.
CNA Robert: Mr. Davis, I respect that. How about this—I’ll give you some choices. Would you like to get dressed now, or would you prefer to wait thirty minutes?
Mr. Davis: I’ll wait.
CNA Robert: That’s fine. And when we do get dressed, would you like to pick out your own clothes, or would you like me to suggest something?
Mr. Davis: I’ll pick them out myself.
CNA Robert: Perfect. I’ll come back in thirty minutes, and you can show me what you’d like to wear. Is that okay?
Mr. Davis: Nods Okay.
CNA Robert: Thank you for talking with me, Mr. Davis. I’ll see you soon.
Dialogue 15: Family Communication and Updates
Setting: Hallway outside patient room
CNA Stephanie: Hello, Mrs. Brown. I’m Stephanie, your mother’s nursing assistant on the day shift.
Mrs. Brown: Hello. How is my mother doing today?
CNA Stephanie: Overall, she’s had a pretty good day. She ate most of her breakfast this morning and participated in the morning activity.
Mrs. Brown: That’s good to hear. Has she been in any pain?
CNA Stephanie: She mentioned some discomfort in her lower back around 10:00 AM. The nurse gave her the prescribed pain medication, and she said she felt better about an hour later.
Mrs. Brown: I’m glad you’re managing her pain. Has she been drinking enough water? Last time I was here, I was worried about dehydration.
CNA Stephanie: That’s a good observation. I’ve been encouraging her to drink throughout the day. She’s had about four cups of water and juice so far. We’re monitoring her fluid intake carefully.
Mrs. Brown: Thank you. Has she been walking at all?
CNA Stephanie: Yes, she walked to the dining room for lunch with her walker, and I assisted her to the bathroom three times today. She moved well with minimal assistance.
Mrs. Brown: That’s wonderful. She seems to be getting stronger.
CNA Stephanie: She is making good progress. I should mention that she seemed a little more confused this afternoon—she asked for her sister, who passed away several years ago.
Mrs. Brown: Oh no. Does that happen often?
CNA Stephanie: Occasionally. When it happens, we gently redirect her and keep her calm. The confusion usually doesn’t last long. The nurse is aware and monitoring it.
Mrs. Brown: I see. Is there anything I should know about her care plan?
CNA Stephanie: The physical therapist increased her exercises this week, which is a positive sign. Other than that, everything is going according to plan. Do you have any questions for me?
Mrs. Brown: No, thank you so much for the detailed update. I really appreciate how well you care for my mother.
CNA Stephanie: It’s my pleasure. Your mother is a wonderful person, and we enjoy having her here. Feel free to ask me or any staff member if you ever have questions or concerns.
Comprehensive Vocabulary List
Medical and Care Terms
Activities of daily living (ADLs) – Basic self-care tasks including bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and moving around
Assisted living – A residential facility that provides help with daily activities while promoting independence
Bedside manner – The way healthcare workers interact with and treat patients
Blood pressure – The force of blood pushing against artery walls, measured with two numbers (systolic/diastolic)
Blood pressure cuff – A device wrapped around the arm to measure blood pressure
Call button/call light – A device patients press to request assistance from staff
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – A healthcare worker who provides basic care to patients under nurse supervision
Chart – A patient’s medical record containing health information and care instructions
Circulation – The movement of blood through the body
Confused/confusion – A state where a person has difficulty thinking clearly or understanding their surroundings
Cooperating/cooperation – Working together, following instructions
Dehydration – A condition when the body doesn’t have enough water
Dignity – The quality of being worthy of respect and honor
Discomfort – A feeling of being uncomfortable, mild pain
Document – To write down or record information in medical records
Dosage/dose – The amount of medication given at one time
Fall – An event when a person unexpectedly drops to the ground
Fluid intake – The amount of liquids a person drinks
Hearing aid – A small electronic device worn in or behind the ear to help people hear better
Hip – The joint where the leg connects to the pelvis
Medication – Medicine prescribed by a doctor to treat illness or symptoms
Nursing home – A residential facility providing 24-hour care for people who need constant assistance
Pain level/pain scale – A measurement from 0-10 used to describe how much pain someone is experiencing (0 = no pain, 10 = worst pain)
Physical therapist/physical therapy – A healthcare professional who helps patients improve movement and strength / the treatment they provide
Privacy – The state of being free from being observed or disturbed by others
Pulse – The rhythm of the heartbeat felt in arteries
Temperature – A measurement of body heat, normally around 98.6°F (37°C)
Thermometer – A device used to measure body temperature
Tremor – An involuntary shaking or trembling movement
Vital signs – Basic body measurements including temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate
Walker – A metal frame device that helps people walk safely and maintain balance
Wrist – The joint connecting the hand to the arm
Communication and Emotional Support Terms
Anxious/anxiety – Feeling worried, nervous, or uneasy
Appreciate – To be grateful for or recognize the value of something
Bathing – The act of washing the body
Bothering – Causing pain, discomfort, or annoyance
Challenging – Difficult but possible to do
Chilly – Feeling slightly cold
Compassion/compassionate – Deep sympathy and concern for others who are suffering
Compromising/compromise – An agreement where both people give up something to reach a solution
Concerned/concern – Worried about something, feeling care for someone
Dignity – Self-respect and being treated with honor
Embarrassed/embarrassment – Feeling ashamed or self-conscious
Empathy/empathetic – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person
Encouraging/encouragement – Giving support, confidence, or hope to someone
Frustrated/frustration – Feeling annoyed or upset because you cannot do something
Gentle – Soft, kind, and careful in action or manner
Independent/independence – Able to do things without help from others
Patient/patience – Able to stay calm and not get annoyed when dealing with difficulties
Preferences – Things that a person likes or chooses over other options
Privacy – Freedom from being watched or disturbed by others
Professional – Behaving in a way that is appropriate for work, showing competence and respect
Reassuring/reassurance – Saying or doing something to make someone feel less worried
Redirect – To guide someone’s attention to a different topic or activity
Respectful/respect – Showing consideration and honor toward someone
Understanding – Showing sympathy and comprehension of someone’s situation
Uncomfortable – Causing physical or emotional discomfort
Upset – Feeling unhappy, worried, or angry
Worry/worried – To feel anxious or concerned about something
Action Verbs for Patient Care
Adjust – To change the position or setting of something slightly
Assist/assistance – To help someone do something
Blow – To send out air from the mouth (e.g., to cool food)
Brush – To clean or smooth something using a brush
Check – To look at or examine something
Chew – To break down food with the teeth
Complain/complaint – To say that something is wrong or unsatisfactory
Contact – To communicate with or reach someone
Count – To say numbers in order
Document – To record information in writing
Guide – To show someone how to do something or where to go
Inform – To tell someone about something
Insert – To put something into something else
Lift – To raise something to a higher position
Manage – To handle or deal with something successfully
Monitor – To watch or check something carefully over time
Participate – To take part in an activity
Position – To place someone or something in a particular way
Press – To push against something with force
Raise – To lift or move something to a higher position
Redirect – To change the direction or focus of something
Rinse – To wash something with clean water
Squeeze – To press something firmly, especially from both sides
Swallow – To make food or drink go down the throat
Tuck – To push the edges of something under or into something else to make it neat
Wiggle – To move with small movements from side to side or up and down
Descriptive Words
Appropriate – Suitable or right for a particular situation
Comfortable – Feeling physically relaxed with no pain
Complete – Having all necessary parts, finished
Detailed – Including many facts or pieces of information
Difficult – Hard to do or understand
Excellent – Extremely good
Immediately – Right away, without delay
Normal – Usual, typical, expected
Perfect – Exactly right, without any mistakes
Positive – Hopeful, optimistic, good
Prepared – Ready for something
Safe/safely – Protected from danger, not in danger
Sharp – Used to describe sudden, intense pain
Slight/slightly – Small in amount or degree
Soft – Gentle, not hard or rough
Stable – Steady, not changing suddenly
Stiff – Difficult to move or bend
Urgent/urgently – Needing immediate attention
Weak – Lacking physical strength
Within reach – Close enough to touch or get to easily
Time-Related Terms
Afternoon – The time between noon and evening
Bedtime – The usual time someone goes to bed
Evening – The time between afternoon and night
Later – At a time in the future
Meal time – The scheduled time for eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Mid-morning – The middle part of the morning
Routine – A regular, repeated way of doing things
Shift – A scheduled period of work time
Soon – In a short time from now
Practice Tips
- Read each dialogue aloud multiple times to practice pronunciation and natural rhythm
- Role-play with a study partner, switching between CNA and patient roles
- Record yourself speaking the CNA parts and listen to improve your fluency
- Focus on tone – notice how CNAs stay calm, patient, and professional
- Practice key phrases until they become automatic
- Study the vocabulary in context by finding the words within the dialogues
- Notice cultural aspects of respectful communication in healthcare settings
Good luck with your CNA studies and your work with elderly patients!
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