Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

When a nurse aide observes a charge nurse yelling at a resident, what should they do?

1. Ignore the situation as it's not their concern

2. Report the situation to the charge nurse's supervisor

3. Confront the charge nurse about their behavior

4. Support the charge nurse in front of the resident

The correct answer is: Report the situation to the charge nurse's supervisor

Reporting the situation to the charge nurse's supervisor is the appropriate response when witnessing unprofessional behavior such as yelling at a resident. This action is critical for several reasons. First, maintaining a safe and respectful environment for residents is a core responsibility of a certified nursing assistant. When a staff member behaves inappropriately, it undermines the dignity and well-being of those they care for. By reporting the incident, the nurse aide ensures that the charge nurse is held accountable for their actions, which can help prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, this step aligns with the protocols of most healthcare settings, which typically encourage staff to report any concerns regarding the treatment of residents. Addressing the issue through proper channels, rather than ignoring it or confronting the charge nurse directly, helps maintain professionalism and supports a culture of accountability in the workplace. This ultimately fosters a more positive atmosphere for both staff and residents.