Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which of the following should a nursing assistant provide if a resident expresses worries about their health?

1. Acknowledge the worries and listen

2. Discount their concerns

3. Redirect conversation to something cheerful

4. Encourage physical activity for distraction

The correct answer is: Acknowledge the worries and listen

Acknowledge the worries and listen is the most appropriate response when a resident expresses concerns about their health. Providing a supportive environment where the resident feels heard is crucial in maintaining their emotional well-being. By actively listening and acknowledging their worries, you validate their feelings and demonstrate your empathy and understanding. This approach can help to reduce anxiety and build trust between the resident and the nursing assistant, allowing for more open communication about health-related issues. Listening attentively to fears or health worries shows respect for the resident's experience, fostering a sense of safety and comfort. It encourages them to share more about their concerns, potentially leading to identifying specific issues that might need attention from healthcare providers. This supportive approach can significantly improve the resident's overall experience and their willingness to engage in their care process.