What should a CNA do if they notice a change in a resident’s condition?

If a CNA notices a change in a resident’s condition, the appropriate action is to document the change and inform the supervising nurse promptly. This approach is critical because timely communication allows healthcare professionals to assess the situation and determine the need for further evaluation or intervention. Changes in a resident's condition can indicate potential complications or new health issues that require immediate attention.

By documenting the change, the CNA provides a record that can aid in ongoing care decisions and help ensure continuity of care. Additionally, notifying the supervising nurse ensures that a qualified professional can make further assessments, leading to appropriate and timely responses that contribute to the resident's health and safety.

In this scenario, waiting until the next scheduled assessment, attempting to handle the change independently, or only informing the resident’s family all undermine the principles of teamwork and effective communication in healthcare. These approaches can delay necessary medical attention and potentially jeopardize the well-being of the resident.