Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

How should a nurse aide respond to a resident's complaint about pain?

1. Suggest that they are overreacting

2. Ask if they need medication for the pain

3. Document the complaint without further action

4. Encourage them to distract themselves

The correct answer is: Ask if they need medication for the pain

When a resident expresses a complaint about pain, it is essential for a nurse aide to respond compassionately and effectively to ensure the resident's needs are met. Asking if the resident needs medication for the pain shows attentiveness and concern for their well-being. It opens a dialogue for the resident to express the severity and nature of their discomfort and enables the nurse aide to assess the situation more accurately. This response also aligns with the principle of person-centered care, where the individual's comfort and preferences are prioritized. Pain management is a critical aspect of nursing care, and it is the nurse aide's responsibility to take complaints seriously and facilitate appropriate interventions, such as notifying a nurse or assisting in administering prescribed pain relief. Meanwhile, the other responses do not promote effective communication or support for the resident. Suggesting that the resident is overreacting is dismissive and can harm the trust between the resident and the caregiver. Documenting the complaint without taking further action overlooks the necessity of assessing and addressing pain, which is a fundamental aspect of nursing care. Encouraging distractions may be helpful in some contexts, but it should not replace the need for proper assessment and management of the resident's pain. Thus, initiating a discussion about pain management needs is the most appropriate and compassionate response.