How should a CNA handle a resident with challenging behaviors?

Remaining calm and utilizing de-escalation techniques is vital when dealing with a resident exhibiting challenging behaviors. This approach helps to stabilize the situation and can help to prevent further escalation of the behavior. By staying composed, a CNA can effectively communicate with the resident, which may help them feel more at ease and less threatened. Techniques might include speaking softly, maintaining a non-threatening posture, and actively listening to the resident's concerns.

Seeking help when necessary is also an important aspect of this approach. Challenging behaviors can sometimes indicate underlying issues that require professional intervention, such as mental health considerations or medical needs that may need to be assessed by a supervisor or healthcare provider. It's crucial for a CNA to know their limits and ensure the safety and well-being of themselves and the resident.

In contrast, ignoring the behavior could allow the situation to worsen, as the underlying issues would go unaddressed. Confronting the resident directly might provoke hostility or further agitation, while reporting to the family without first addressing the behavior would be premature and could lead to unnecessary alarm or misunderstandings. Hence, using calmness and de-escalation techniques is the most effective and supportive way to handle residents with challenging behaviors.