When a nursing assistant is performing a procedure on a resident, what should they do?

When a nursing assistant is performing a procedure on a resident, what should they do?

• A. Try to distract the resident so they will not know what the NA is doing
• B. Explain the procedure fully before performing it
• C. Wait until the resident is sleeping before the NA starts the procedure
• D. Talk to the resident's roommate so the resident does not become self-conscious

Answer: (B)

Before performing any procedure, the resident should be informed about what will happen and why, and the CNA should confirm the resident understands and consents. Explaining the steps, any sensations the resident might feel, how long it will take, and what they should do helps them stay calm, participate in their care, and protects their dignity and autonomy. This open communication also reduces fear and confusion and fosters trust. Distracting the resident, waiting for them to sleep, or discussing with a roommate would violate privacy and the resident’s right to know and consent, so they’re not appropriate approaches.

Before performing any procedure, the resident should be informed about what will happen and why, and the CNA should confirm the resident understands and consents. Explaining the steps, any sensations the resident might feel, how long it will take, and what they should do helps them stay calm, participate in their care, and protects their dignity and autonomy. This open communication also reduces fear and confusion and fosters trust. Distracting the resident, waiting for them to sleep, or discussing with a roommate would violate privacy and the resident’s right to know and consent, so they’re not appropriate approaches.