Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What should a nursing assistant do if they suspect a resident is being abused?

1. Call the police immediately

2. Discuss the issue with the resident

3. Report it to the charge nurse

4. Confront the abuser directly

The correct answer is: Report it to the charge nurse

When a nursing assistant suspects that a resident is being abused, the appropriate course of action is to report it to the charge nurse. This is critical because the charge nurse is equipped to handle such situations according to facility protocols and has the authority to initiate an investigation. Reporting to the charge nurse also ensures that the issue is documented and that appropriate actions can be taken to protect the resident and address the situation legally and ethically. In addition, the charge nurse can coordinate further steps, such as involving social services or law enforcement if necessary, providing support to the resident, and ensuring that their safety is prioritized. This chain of communication is essential in maintaining a safe and compliant healthcare environment. Other options, such as confronting the abuser directly, could put both the resident and the nursing assistant at risk, while discussing the issue with the resident might not provide the necessary protection and could make the situation worse. Immediate involvement of the police could also be premature without proper protocol being followed within the healthcare facility.