California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

In which circumstance should a nurse assistant report to the Director of Nursing?

1. A resident has fallen

2. The nurse in charge is suspected of abusing a resident

3. The physician has asked for the nurse assistant's help

4. A resident refuses to cooperate with treatment

The correct answer is: The nurse in charge is suspected of abusing a resident

Reporting suspected abuse is critical in maintaining the safety and well-being of residents in a healthcare facility. When a nurse assistant suspects that a nurse or any staff member is abusing a resident, it is essential to report this to the Director of Nursing immediately. This high-level reporting ensures that appropriate actions are taken to investigate the matter thoroughly and protect the resident from potential harm. This option highlights the responsibility of healthcare staff to safeguard vulnerable populations. Abuse can take many forms, from physical and verbal mistreatment to neglect, and it is essential for the safety of all residents that such suspicions are treated seriously and escalated to a supervisory level where further investigation can occur. Other situations, while significant, typically have established protocols or do not necessarily require direct reporting to the Director of Nursing. For instance, in the case of a resident falling, the event would typically be reported to the nurse in charge for immediate care and assessment. Similarly, assisting a physician is part of the routine duties of a nursing assistant and does not necessitate reporting to the Director. Lastly, a resident refusing treatment is a common occurrence that should be addressed following facility protocols but may not require urgent intervention from the Director.