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

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

• A. Ignore it if the patient seems stable
• B. Report the changes to the supervising nurse immediately
• C. Document it in the patient’s chart without informing anyone
• D. Wait for the next scheduled check-in

Answer: (B)

When a CNA notices a change in a patient’s condition, promptly reporting those changes to the supervising nurse is critical for several reasons. The supervising nurse is trained to assess the patient's condition more comprehensively and make decisions on further care. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into serious health problems, thereby safeguarding the patient's well-being. In a healthcare setting, timely communication of changes in a patient's status ensures that everyone involved in the patient's care is informed and can adjust their interventions accordingly. This not only enhances the continuity of care but also adheres to legal and ethical responsibilities. Other options aren’t effective approaches as they either delay necessary action, limit communication, or fail to uphold the standards of patient care expected in a clinical setting. Reporting changes ensures that the team can evaluate and address any potential issues as soon as possible.

When a CNA notices a change in a patient’s condition, promptly reporting those changes to the supervising nurse is critical for several reasons. The supervising nurse is trained to assess the patient's condition more comprehensively and make decisions on further care. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into serious health problems, thereby safeguarding the patient's well-being.

In a healthcare setting, timely communication of changes in a patient's status ensures that everyone involved in the patient's care is informed and can adjust their interventions accordingly. This not only enhances the continuity of care but also adheres to legal and ethical responsibilities.

Other options aren’t effective approaches as they either delay necessary action, limit communication, or fail to uphold the standards of patient care expected in a clinical setting. Reporting changes ensures that the team can evaluate and address any potential issues as soon as possible.