Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

When a Certified Nursing Assistant suspects that a patient is experiencing abuse, the appropriate course of action is to report it immediately according to facility policy. This is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, reporting ensures that the patient receives the protection and support they may need, as abuse can have serious physical and psychological effects. Facility policies are designed to ensure that such situations are addressed by the right personnel, who are trained to investigate and take appropriate actions to safeguard the patient.

Additionally, reporting is often a legal requirement. Many states have mandated reporting laws, which require healthcare workers to report any suspicions of abuse to the proper authorities. Failure to report could result in further harm to the patient and legal repercussions for the CNA.

In contrast, ignoring the signs could lead to ongoing abuse and trauma for the patient, while talking to the patient about it may not only place an additional burden on them but also jeopardize their safety if the abuser is aware of the discussions. Discussing the matter with other patients poses confidentiality risks and does not contribute to resolving the situation. Therefore, following facility policy and ensuring proper reporting should always be prioritized in such circumstances.