What steps should you take if you suspect a resident is being abused?

The appropriate response when you suspect a resident is being abused is to report to the nurse immediately and document the situation. This is essential because, as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you are a critical part of the healthcare team and have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents in your care.

Immediate reporting allows trained professionals to assess the situation swiftly and take necessary actions to protect the resident. It also creates a record of the incident, which is vital for any further investigations. Your role is to observe and report rather than investigate on your own, which aligns with following proper protocols and procedures established to address abuse allegations.

In contrast, confronting the suspected abuser directly could escalate the situation or put you or the resident in further danger. Ignoring signs of abuse, unless the resident speaks up, fails to take proactive steps to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals, leaving them at risk. Lastly, waiting until the end of your shift to report could potentially allow for further harm to the resident and fails to address the urgent nature of abuse cases.