Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

If a resident begins to share about a religious service and the nursing assistant does not share the same beliefs, what is the best response for the assistant?

1. Listen quietly to Mrs. Goldman

2. Tell Mrs. Goldman that he does not believe in God and would prefer not to discuss it

3. Tell Mrs. Goldman that her beliefs are wrong

4. Change the subject to something more comfortable for him

The correct answer is: Listen quietly to Mrs. Goldman

Listening quietly to the resident, Mrs. Goldman, demonstrates respect and openness towards her beliefs. By allowing her to express her thoughts and feelings about her religious service, the nursing assistant provides emotional support and validates her experiences. This approach fosters a compassionate environment, which is essential for effective caregiving. It's important for healthcare professionals, including nursing assistants, to encourage residents to share their feelings and beliefs, as this can enhance their well-being and foster a sense of connection. Simply listening can also help the assistant build rapport with the resident, which is crucial for trust and communication in the caregiver-resident relationship. Maintaining a non-judgmental stance is vital, especially in sensitive areas such as religion, where personal beliefs can vary greatly between individuals.