Home Health Aide Practice Test

Unofficial HHA practice: 80 questions with answers, on the subjects a home health aide's competency evaluation must address.

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What does 42 CFR 484.80(g) say an aide must complete in compliance with the agency's policies and procedures?

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Unofficial practice questions, not affiliated with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services or any home health agency. Bank checked October 9, 2026.

The real evaluation, as the federal rule describes it

When
Before an individual furnishes home health services on behalf of a home health agency.
Watched
Communication, temperature, pulse, respiration, hygiene, grooming, transfers, walking, range of motion and positioning, with a patient or pseudo-patient.
Written or oral
The other subjects may be evaluated by a written examination, an oral examination or observation.
Who evaluates
A registered nurse, in consultation with other skilled professionals as appropriate.
Result
Unsatisfactory in more than one required area is not a pass. A failed task needs a registered nurse's direct supervision until training and a new evaluation.
Lapse
After 24 consecutive months with no paid work as an aide, a program is completed again before giving care.

Checked October 9, 2026 against 42 CFR 484.80, Home health aide services. Rules change, so confirm with the agency itself before your test.

The federal rule, 42 CFR 484.80, on eCFR

All 80 questions with answers

Communication, reporting and records 9

  • 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3) describes communication skills as the ability to read, write and do what? Answer: Verbally report clinical information. Source: 42 CFR 484.80, Home health aide services (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • A patient with aphasia will be alone for part of the day. What does MedlinePlus say the patient should have? Answer: An ID card about the speech problem. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Communicating with someone with aphasia. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • At the end of a guided walk, where is a patient with low vision left? Answer: At a specific place. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Living with vision loss. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
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Communication, reporting and records, continued

  • In a group conversation, how does a patient with hearing loss know that you are speaking to them? Answer: You use the person's name. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Talking to someone with hearing loss. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • Under 42 CFR 484.80(g), the services a home health aide provides must be included in what? Answer: The plan of care. Source: 42 CFR 484.80, Home health aide services (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • Under 42 CFR 484.80(g), to whom does a home health aide report a change in the patient's condition? Answer: A registered nurse or other appropriate skilled professional. Source: 42 CFR 484.80, Home health aide services (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • Under 42 CFR 484.80(g), what does a registered nurse or other skilled professional prepare for the aide assigned to a patient? Answer: Written patient care instructions. Source: 42 CFR 484.80, Home health aide services (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • What does 42 CFR 484.80(g) say an aide must complete in compliance with the agency's policies and procedures? Answer: Appropriate records. Source: 42 CFR 484.80, Home health aide services (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.
  • You guide a patient with low vision on a walk. How does the patient hold on to you? Answer: Lightly above your elbow, slightly behind you. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Living with vision loss. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(i) and (ii): communication skills; observation, reporting and documentation of patient status and the care furnished.

Temperature, pulse and respiration 7

  • A patient has just had a hot bath. How long does MedlinePlus say to wait before measuring body temperature? Answer: At least 1 hour. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Temperature measurement. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
  • A reading how far above a person's normal temperature is a fever? Answer: More than 1°F to 1.5°F. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Temperature measurement. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
  • Besides a rate that is too fast or too slow, which pulse finding can indicate a problem? Answer: An irregular pulse. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Pulse. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
  • How does the breathing rate usually change with age? Answer: It usually does not change. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Aging changes in vital signs. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
  • How many breaths per minute are normal for a healthy adult at rest? Answer: 12 to 18. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Vital signs. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
  • When a temperature is reported, what is reported with the reading? Answer: Which type of measurement was used. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Temperature measurement. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.
  • Why are an older patient's other vital signs checked when an infection is suspected? Answer: The body may be unable to raise its temperature. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Aging changes in vital signs. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iii): reading and recording temperature, pulse and respiration.

Infection prevention and control 8

  • An aide makes a patient's lunch. When are the hands washed? Answer: Before, during and after preparing the food. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Handwashing. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • Before a chemical cleaner is handled, where does MedlinePlus say to look for the kind of gloves needed? Answer: The material safety data sheet. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Wearing gloves in the hospital. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • For how long is hand sanitizer rubbed over the hands? Answer: Until the hands are dry. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Handwashing. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • How are the nails and cuticles washed? Answer: By rubbing them against the soapy palm. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Handwashing. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • What goes wrong when gloves are too big? Answer: Germs get inside more easily. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Wearing gloves in the hospital. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • What is personal protective equipment? Answer: Equipment worn as a barrier to germs. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Personal protective equipment. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • When does MedlinePlus say to wash the hands around caring for someone who is sick at home? Answer: Before and after. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Handwashing. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.
  • Where does an aide find when to wear personal protective equipment and which type to use? Answer: In the workplace's written instructions. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Personal protective equipment. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(iv): basic infection prevention and control procedures.

Body and skin changes to report 10

  • A patient who has been vomiting becomes confused. What does MedlinePlus say to do for this sign of dehydration? Answer: Call 911 or the local emergency number. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Dehydration. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • A patient with diabetes has a foot that is red, warm and swollen. What does MedlinePlus say? Answer: The provider is contacted right away. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Diabetes - taking care of your feet. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • A patient with diabetes is shaking, sweating and hungry. Which condition do these signs fit? Answer: Low blood sugar. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Low blood sugar. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • After how many days without a bowel movement does MedlinePlus say to contact the provider? Answer: 3 days. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Constipation - self-care. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • How do the symptoms of a stroke most often begin? Answer: Suddenly and without warning. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Stroke. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • On the skin of a patient with incontinence, what does a yeast infection look like? Answer: A red, itchy rash that looks like pimples. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Skin care and incontinence. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • The urine in a patient's drainage bag is cloudy and smells bad. What is this a sign of? Answer: An infection. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Urine drainage bags. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • What color is the urine in mild to moderate dehydration? Answer: Darker yellow. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Dehydration. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • Which stool color can be a sign of bleeding inside the body? Answer: Black. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bleeding. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.
  • Why is an older patient at high risk of overheating? Answer: Aging decreases the ability to sweat. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Aging changes in vital signs. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(v) and (xiii): changes in body function that must be reported to an aide's supervisor; recognizing and reporting changes in skin condition.

A clean, safe and healthy home 8

  • A patient keeps everyday things on a high shelf. What does MedlinePlus suggest? Answer: Rearrange the home to put things within easier reach. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Preventing falls. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • How are bathroom grab bars secured to the wall? Answer: Vertically or horizontally. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathroom safety for adults. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • How many ways out of each room does a home fire escape plan have, where possible? Answer: 2. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Fire safety at home. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • To prevent burns, the water heater in a patient's home is set no higher than what? Answer: 120°F. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathroom safety for adults. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • What does MedlinePlus say to put in each room where oxygen is in use? Answer: A NO SMOKING sign. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Oxygen safety. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • Where does good lighting matter most for preventing a fall at home? Answer: The path from bedroom to bathroom. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Preventing falls. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • Which shoes help keep a patient from slipping? Answer: Low heels and rubber soles. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Preventing falls. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.
  • Why is a towel rack not used as a grab bar? Answer: It cannot support a person's weight. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathroom safety for adults. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vi): maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment.

Emergencies 8

  • A choking patient loses consciousness. What does MedlinePlus say to start? Answer: CPR. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Abdominal thrusts. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • A patient has fallen on a kitchen knife and it is stuck in the leg. What does MedlinePlus say about the knife? Answer: It is left in place. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bleeding. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • A patient who fainted has vomited. How is the patient placed? Answer: On the side. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Fainting. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • A patient's signs of low blood sugar are no better after a snack that has sugar. What does MedlinePlus say to do? Answer: Call 911 or the local emergency number. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Low blood sugar. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • A seizure is a reason to call 911 when it lasts longer than what? Answer: 2 to 5 minutes. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Seizures. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • After a seizure, when may the person be given something by mouth? Answer: Once the convulsions have ended and the person is completely awake. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Seizures. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • Blood soaks through the cloth held on a wound. What is done? Answer: Another cloth is placed over the first. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bleeding. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.
  • Burned clothing is stuck to a patient's skin. What is done with it? Answer: It is left where it is. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Burns. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(vii): recognizing emergencies and instituting emergency procedures.

Patients' needs, respect, privacy and property 8

  • 42 CFR 484.50(c)(2) says a patient has the right to be free from abuse, neglect and which of these? Answer: Misappropriation of property. Source: 42 CFR 484.50, Patient rights (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • A patient complains to the agency about an aide. What does 42 CFR 484.50(c) protect the patient from? Answer: Discrimination or reprisal. Source: 42 CFR 484.50, Patient rights (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • A patient with aphasia becomes frustrated while following your instructions. What does MedlinePlus suggest? Answer: Changing to another activity. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Communicating with someone with aphasia. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • An aide notices signs that a patient is being abused or neglected. Under 42 CFR 484.50(e), when is this reported to the agency? Answer: Immediately. Source: 42 CFR 484.50, Patient rights (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • Under 42 CFR 484.50(c), may a patient refuse care? Answer: Yes, in advance of and during treatment. Source: 42 CFR 484.50, Patient rights (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • Under 42 CFR 484.50(c), what kind of clinical record does a patient have a right to? Answer: A confidential one. Source: 42 CFR 484.50, Patient rights (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • Which of these bothers a person with low vision and is removed where possible? Answer: Glare. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Living with vision loss. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.
  • Which right does 42 CFR 484.50(c) give a home health patient about property? Answer: To have his or her property and person treated with respect. Source: 42 CFR 484.50, Patient rights (eCFR). Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(viii): the physical, emotional and developmental needs of the populations served, including respect for the patient, his or her privacy and his or her property.

Personal hygiene and grooming 9

  • A patient has trouble getting up from a low toilet. What does MedlinePlus say can help prevent a fall? Answer: An elevated toilet seat. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathroom safety for adults. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • Before a bed bath, what is done to the room? Answer: It is made warm, with doors and windows closed. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathing a patient in bed. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • Before the feet of a person with diabetes are washed, how is the water tested? Answer: With your hand or elbow. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Diabetes - taking care of your feet. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • How does MedlinePlus say a person at risk of falling takes a shower? Answer: Seated on a bath bench or chair. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathroom safety for adults. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • How is hair washed for a patient who cannot leave the bed? Answer: With a dry shampoo that is combed out, or a basin made for washing hair in bed. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Bathing a patient in bed. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • In which shape does MedlinePlus say toenails are cut? Answer: Straight across. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Diabetes - taking care of your feet. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • What is a used urine drainage bag filled with to clean it? Answer: White vinegar and water, 2 parts to 3. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Urine drainage bags. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • Which of these does MedlinePlus tell a person who wears dentures NOT to use? Answer: Toothpicks. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Denture problems. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).
  • Who treats corns and calluses on the feet of most people with diabetes? Answer: A foot doctor. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Diabetes - taking care of your feet. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(ix): personal hygiene and grooming tasks (bed bath; sponge, tub and shower bath; hair shampooing; nail and skin care; oral hygiene; toileting and elimination).

Transfers, walking, range of motion and positioning 8

  • A patient must step onto a slippery floor during a transfer. What goes on the feet? Answer: Non-skid socks or shoes. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Moving a patient from bed to a wheelchair. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • After a patient is turned onto the side, where must the arms not be? Answer: Under the body's weight. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Turning patients over in bed. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • Going down a set of stairs with a cane, what goes first? Answer: The cane. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Using a cane. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • Going down a step with a walker, which leg goes first? Answer: The weaker leg. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Using a walker. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • How does MedlinePlus say to set a heavy object down? Answer: Squat, with the back kept straight. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Lifting and bending the right way. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • How is a walker that has no wheels moved forward? Answer: It is lifted and placed in front. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Using a walker. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • When may a patient use stairs with a walker? Answer: After training by a physical therapist. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Using a walker. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.
  • Which of these does MedlinePlus list as a cause of contracture? Answer: Reduced use, as from lack of mobility. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Contracture deformity. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(x) and (xi): safe transfer techniques and ambulation; normal range of motion and positioning.

Nutrition and fluid intake 5

  • To help prevent pressure injuries, MedlinePlus says to eat enough calories and what? Answer: Protein. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Preventing pressure injuries. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(xii): adequate nutrition and fluid intake.
  • Which food temperature does MedlinePlus say to avoid for a person with dementia who does not eat enough? Answer: Too hot or too cold. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Dementia - daily care. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(xii): adequate nutrition and fluid intake.
  • Which of these does MedlinePlus say NOT to take for dehydration? Answer: Salt tablets. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Dehydration. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(xii): adequate nutrition and fluid intake.
  • Which of these foods adds fiber to a meal? Answer: Brown rice. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Constipation - self-care. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(xii): adequate nutrition and fluid intake.
  • Why are foods with fiber added to the diet slowly? Answer: More fiber can bring gas and bloating. Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Constipation - self-care. Outline: 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3)(xii): adequate nutrition and fluid intake.

How this list was compiled: Our own questions, written to the subject areas that a home health aide training program must address, 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3) (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/section-484.80), each of which the competency evaluation must address under 42 CFR 484.80(c)(1); the section was read whole on ecfr.gov on 2026-10-09 (eCFR up to date as of 2026-10-07). The 80 questions are: 9 on communication, reporting and records, 7 on temperature, pulse and respiration, 8 on infection prevention and control, 10 on body and skin changes to report, 8 on a clean, safe and healthy home, 8 on emergencies, 8 on patients' needs, respect, privacy and property, 9 on personal hygiene and grooming, 8 on transfers, walking, range of motion and positioning, 5 on nutrition and fluid intake. The rule gives no shares; these are this site's own. Every fact was read on 2026-10-09 in the public source the question names: the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia of the National Library of Medicine (medlineplus.gov/ency) and 42 CFR 484.50 and 484.80 on ecfr.gov. Licence: Questions, choices and explanations are original work of this site.

How it works

Every question on this free home health aide practice test is our own, written to the subjects of the federal rule, 42 CFR 484.80. It is unofficial and not affiliated with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services or any home health agency.

Read the full guide

What the questions follow

The bank follows the subject areas a home health aide training program must address under 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3), read October 9, 2026. The competency evaluation must address each one. The most questions are on body and skin changes to report.

Set in the home

The questions are about care in a patient's home: the water heater, grab bars, a fire escape plan, a urine drainage bag, the nurse an aide reports to. If your employer calls the job health care aide, this is a health care aide practice test on the same federal subjects.

Where the answers come from

Care facts were read in the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, and patient rights and aide duties in 42 CFR 484.50 and 484.80.

Questions and answers

Is this a home health aide practice test with answers?

Yes, free and with no sign-up. Each question shows the right choice, a short reason and the public page it was checked against.

How many questions are on the home health aide test?

The federal rule sets no number of questions and no time limit. The agency or program that gives your evaluation sets its own on the subjects of 42 CFR 484.80(b)(3), so ask it for the count.

What is on the HHA competency test?

Every subject of the training: communication, observation and reporting, vital signs, infection control, body and skin changes to report, a safe home, emergencies, patients' needs and rights, personal hygiene, transfers, positioning and nutrition.

How many hours of training does a home health aide need?

Training under 42 CFR 484.80(b) totals at least 75 hours, classroom and supervised practical, with at least 16 classroom hours before the supervised practical part. After that, an aide receives at least 12 hours of in-service training in each 12-month period.

Is this HHA quiz the official exam?

No. There is no single official test. The rule belongs to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and this site is not affiliated with that agency or any home health agency. Every question is our own.