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

When a CNA observes a change in a patient's condition, informing the supervising nurse immediately is crucial. This practice ensures that the medical team is quickly alerted to any potential issues that may require intervention. Recognizing changes in a patient's condition can be vital for early detection of complications, which can significantly impact care outcomes.

The supervising nurse has the training and authority to evaluate the situation further, make critical judgments, and decide on the appropriate course of action. Prompt communication also helps maintain patient safety and allows for timely adjustments in care plans, ensuring that the patient receives the attention they need without unnecessary delays. Keeping records of changes in condition is important, but it should always be coupled with immediately reporting those changes to a licensed professional who can act on them.