What should a CNA do if they discover a resident has fallen?

When a CNA discovers that a resident has fallen, the appropriate response is to assess the resident for injuries and notify a nurse. This approach is crucial for ensuring the safety and health of the resident.

First, by assessing the resident, the CNA can determine whether there are any visible injuries or signs of distress, such as pain or difficulty moving. This immediate evaluation is essential because some injuries, like fractures or head trauma, may not be immediately apparent. Providing this information to a nurse allows for prompt medical intervention, as the nurse will need to evaluate the resident further and possibly initiate emergency procedures.

Additionally, notifying a nurse is important for documentation and follow-up care. Falls can be serious, and having a healthcare professional involved ensures that appropriate measures are taken for the resident's recovery and for preventing future falls.

In contrast to this response, other options fail to prioritize the resident's safety and well-being. Leaving the room to call for help disregards the immediate need to provide care and could exacerbate any injuries. Helping the resident up without assessing can worsen potential injuries, and ignoring the incident entirely poses a significant risk to the resident's health and safety. This comprehensive and careful approach underscores the responsibility that CNAs have in ensuring that residents receive the appropriate care