Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

If a nursing assistant encounters a consenting adult resident in a sexual situation, she should:

1. Join in if appropriate

2. Provide privacy and leave the room

3. Ask the resident to stop immediately

4. Report the incident to the supervisor

The correct answer is: Provide privacy and leave the room

In situations where a nursing assistant encounters a consenting adult resident involved in a sexual activity, the appropriate action is to provide privacy and leave the room. This respects the autonomy and personal space of the resident, acknowledging their right to engage in consensual relationships while ensuring that others are not intruded upon without consent. Providing privacy allows the resident to maintain dignity and confidentiality during a personal moment. This response also reflects the important principles of resident rights and the need for a healthcare professional to respect those rights. Nursing assistants must always prioritize the emotional and physical well-being of residents while upholding a professional boundary. Leaving the room ensures that the assistant does not disrupt the situation or make it uncomfortable for the residents involved. The other options suggest taking actions that could violate the residents' rights or disrupt their personal experiences. Joining in may cross professional boundaries, and asking the resident to stop could be seen as a violation of their autonomy, treating them as if they require intervention when they do not. Reporting the incident can be appropriate if there are concerns about consent or safety but isn't necessary in this context, where consent is already established.