How should a CNA respond to a patient who is experiencing pain?

How should a CNA respond to a patient who is experiencing pain?

• A. Assess the level of pain and report it to the nurse
• B. Administer pain medication without consulting
• C. Ignore the complaint unless it's severe
• D. Change the subject to distract the patient

Answer: (A)

The most appropriate response for a CNA when a patient is experiencing pain is to assess the level of pain and report it to the nurse. This approach is critical because it ensures that the patient's discomfort is evaluated and documented accurately, allowing for appropriate medical intervention. By performing an assessment, the CNA can provide valuable information about the patient's pain, such as its intensity, location, and nature, which can help the nurse determine the best course of action and whether medication or other pain management strategies are necessary. This response underscores the importance of communication and teamwork in healthcare. Recognizing and reporting pain is a key responsibility for a CNA, as it helps ensure that the patient receives timely and effective care. Monitoring pain and reporting it is also aligned with patient-centered care practices, where the focus is on understanding and addressing the individual's needs. In situations where a CNA may feel tempted to administer medication independently or dismiss pain complaints, it's essential to adhere to protocols and communicate effectively with the nursing staff to maintain safety and legal compliance in patient care.

The most appropriate response for a CNA when a patient is experiencing pain is to assess the level of pain and report it to the nurse. This approach is critical because it ensures that the patient's discomfort is evaluated and documented accurately, allowing for appropriate medical intervention. By performing an assessment, the CNA can provide valuable information about the patient's pain, such as its intensity, location, and nature, which can help the nurse determine the best course of action and whether medication or other pain management strategies are necessary.

This response underscores the importance of communication and teamwork in healthcare. Recognizing and reporting pain is a key responsibility for a CNA, as it helps ensure that the patient receives timely and effective care. Monitoring pain and reporting it is also aligned with patient-centered care practices, where the focus is on understanding and addressing the individual's needs.

In situations where a CNA may feel tempted to administer medication independently or dismiss pain complaints, it's essential to adhere to protocols and communicate effectively with the nursing staff to maintain safety and legal compliance in patient care.