Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What is the most appropriate response from a nurse aide to a dying resident worried about confession?

1. “Everything will be fine.”

2. “You should speak with the doctor.”

3. “Would you like it arranged for a priest to visit you?”

4. “Let’s focus on your comfort right now.”

The correct answer is: “Would you like it arranged for a priest to visit you?”

Choosing to arrange for a priest to visit the resident demonstrates a strong understanding of the emotional and spiritual needs that individuals may have as they approach the end of life. When someone expresses concern about confession, it indicates a desire to seek spiritual solace and reconciliation. By offering to facilitate that connection with a priest, the nurse aide is addressing the resident’s needs directly and respectably. This response not only validates the resident's feelings but also supports their spiritual beliefs, which can be an important source of comfort in this difficult time. It shows an awareness of the holistic approach to care, recognizing that emotional and spiritual well-being is just as important as physical comfort during end-of-life situations. In this context, other responses do not fulfill the same level of meaningful engagement with the resident's expressed needs. Simply assuring the resident that "everything will be fine" might come across as dismissive rather than supportive. Advising the resident to speak with the doctor does not directly address their spiritual concerns and may lead them to feel unheard. Focusing on comfort, while important, does not acknowledge the specific worry about confession, potentially leaving the resident feeling even more anxious about their spiritual needs.