If a resident refuses care, what should a CNA do?

When a resident refuses care, the appropriate action for a CNA is to respect their choice and report the refusal to the supervising nurse. This response is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it aligns with the principles of patient autonomy and respect for individual rights in healthcare. Residents have the right to make decisions regarding their own care, and understanding this helps to foster trust and a positive rapport between the caregiver and the resident.

By reporting the refusal to the supervising nurse, the CNA ensures that there is proper communication within the care team. This allows the nurse to assess the situation further and address any underlying issues that may be influencing the resident’s refusal. It is important to document the incident as well, but reporting it to the nurse first is vital for ensuring that the resident’s healthcare needs are still being met, and for evaluating any further actions that may be necessary.

The actions of forcing care or ignoring the refusal can lead to negative outcomes, including physical or emotional distress for the resident and potential legal implications for the caregiver and facility. Documenting the incident without reporting it would also fail to involve the necessary healthcare professionals who can provide appropriate support and intervention when needed.