Nurse Aide (CNA) Study Guide
Chapter 4: Body Systems and Related Conditions
Chapter 4 focuses on the body’s systems, how they work together, and the common
conditions nursing assistants will encounter when caring for residents. It introduces key
terms like homeostasis, atrophy, and basic anatomical directions, then explains age-
related changes and diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer, AIDS, and
cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. This chapter emphasizes how these conditions
affect daily care, and highlights practical skills such as positioning, skin care, oral care,
and safe ambulation that help nursing assistants promote health, comfort, and dignity for
every resident.
Anatomical Terms & Body Basics
• Medial means toward the midline of the body.
• Anterior means the front of the body.
• Homeostasis is when all body systems are working at their best. This is the
balance we aim for!
• Atrophy means the muscle decreases in size when not used (loss of muscle).
Skin & Integumentary System
• Skin allows us to feel heat, cold, pain, touch, and pressure.
• As people age, skin becomes less elastic and thinner.
• Keep sheets wrinkle-free to promote skin health and prevent pressure injury.
Diabetes is an Endocrine System condition that impacts several other body systems,
including the integumentary system. Diabetes often shows itself through common
symptoms such as excessive thirst, extreme hunger, and frequent urination. Because
diabetes can cause serious complications in circulation and healing, special attention is
given to foot care. Nursing assistants should observe the resident’s feet regularly for
irritation, sores, or changes in skin condition, and they should never cut toenails
themselves, this is typically done by a podiatrist. Residents with diabetes should also be
encouraged to wear breathable shoes made of leather, cotton, or canvas to reduce the risk
of skin breakdown and infection.
Residents with AIDS (a disorder of the Immune System) who experience foot numbness
should wear loose slippers to prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of injury. Choosing
Chapter 4: Body Systems and Related Conditions
Chapter 4 focuses on the body’s systems, how they work together, and the common
conditions nursing assistants will encounter when caring for residents. It introduces key
terms like homeostasis, atrophy, and basic anatomical directions, then explains age-
related changes and diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer, AIDS, and
cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. This chapter emphasizes how these conditions
affect daily care, and highlights practical skills such as positioning, skin care, oral care,
and safe ambulation that help nursing assistants promote health, comfort, and dignity for
every resident.
Anatomical Terms & Body Basics
• Medial means toward the midline of the body.
• Anterior means the front of the body.
• Homeostasis is when all body systems are working at their best. This is the
balance we aim for!
• Atrophy means the muscle decreases in size when not used (loss of muscle).
Skin & Integumentary System
• Skin allows us to feel heat, cold, pain, touch, and pressure.
• As people age, skin becomes less elastic and thinner.
• Keep sheets wrinkle-free to promote skin health and prevent pressure injury.
Diabetes is an Endocrine System condition that impacts several other body systems,
including the integumentary system. Diabetes often shows itself through common
symptoms such as excessive thirst, extreme hunger, and frequent urination. Because
diabetes can cause serious complications in circulation and healing, special attention is
given to foot care. Nursing assistants should observe the resident’s feet regularly for
irritation, sores, or changes in skin condition, and they should never cut toenails
themselves, this is typically done by a podiatrist. Residents with diabetes should also be
encouraged to wear breathable shoes made of leather, cotton, or canvas to reduce the risk
of skin breakdown and infection.
Residents with AIDS (a disorder of the Immune System) who experience foot numbness
should wear loose slippers to prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of injury. Choosing
