Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

How should the nurse aide respond when a resident tries to talk about the recent death of another resident?

1. Change the subject to lighten the mood

2. Allow the resident to talk about the resident who died

3. Redirect the conversation to their own experiences

4. Tell the resident to not dwell on sad topics

The correct answer is: Allow the resident to talk about the resident who died

Allowing the resident to talk about the resident who passed away is a compassionate and supportive response. This approach acknowledges the resident's feelings and provides a safe space for them to express their grief or concerns. Talking about loss can be a crucial part of the grieving process, as it helps individuals process their emotions and remember their experiences with the deceased. Engaging in this conversation can also strengthen the relationship between the nurse aide and the resident, as it shows that the aide is willing to listen and care for the resident's emotional well-being. Furthermore, addressing the subject directly can help the resident feel validated in their feelings rather than pushing them to suppress or ignore their grief. This empathetic response promotes an environment of trust and support, which is vital in a healthcare setting, particularly when caring for residents facing loss.