Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

A resident has started hiding food in her closet, claiming it is for a little person that lives there. What should the nurse aide do?

1. Investigate the closet for hidden food

2. Confront the resident about her claims

3. Tell the charge nurse about the resident's behavior

4. Ignore the behavior as it may be innocent

The correct answer is: Tell the charge nurse about the resident's behavior

The appropriate course of action in this scenario is to inform the charge nurse about the resident's behavior. Reporting such observations is essential in a healthcare setting for several reasons. First, the charge nurse can assess the resident’s behavior in the context of her overall health and wellbeing. This behavior may suggest potential cognitive issues or changes in mental status that need professional evaluation. The nurse aide is not equipped to make assessments of the underlying causes of such behaviors, thus it is vital to communicate concerns to those who can provide the necessary medical insight. Second, documenting and informing the charge nurse establishes a record of the observed behavior, which can help in monitoring the resident's condition over time. This documentation can assist in creating an effective care plan customized for the resident's needs. Lastly, sharing this information with the charge nurse ensures that the resident receives any additional support or interventions that may be necessary, which can enhance her overall care and comfort in the living environment. Engaging in communication within the healthcare team is a fundamental component of providing quality care, ensuring that all residents' needs are appropriately addressed.