Originally Posted by
cougarnurse
Yes, we nurses do wipe/clean/change patients, whether a CNA, LPN, or RN! That is basic care. To me, it gives me a clue as to skin condition: Is the person incontinent? Then they are at risk for skin breakdown (think diaper rash, but worse!). Of course, skin breakdown can have multiple causes.
This is all related: There might be something else going on, warrenting a 'nursing diagnosis', and this in turn can lead to the MD's diagnosis.
Remember, CNA's are the nurses' eyes and ears, as we can't be everywhere (doing those multiple tasks of calling lab/x-ray/pharmacy...). We, in turn, are the MD's eyes and ears.
Sorry a bit thrown together. I am quite tired, dear!