Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

If a nurse aide notices a resident's facial expression indicating potential pain, what action should they take?

1. Ignore the expression and continue care

2. Ask the resident if he is feeling pain

3. Adjust the resident's position

4. Document the observation for later

The correct answer is: Ask the resident if he is feeling pain

When a nurse aide notices a resident’s facial expression that suggests potential pain, the appropriate action is to ask the resident if he is feeling pain. This response is vital because it demonstrates a person-centered approach to care, prioritizing the resident's comfort and well-being. By directly inquiring about their pain, the nurse aide not only acknowledges the resident's non-verbal cues but also opens a line of communication that can lead to better assessment and management of the resident's condition. This inquiry allows the resident to express their feelings and discomfort. Pain can significantly affect a person's quality of life, and timely assessment is essential to provide appropriate interventions, whether that means administering pain relief, adjusting care procedures, or informing a nurse or physician for further evaluation. Engaging the resident in this way promotes trust and empowers them to participate in their care, which is an important aspect of patient-centered healthcare. Other options may not effectively address the resident's potential pain. For instance, ignoring the expression would likely lead to worsening discomfort for the resident, while adjusting their position could help but might not directly address the underlying issue of pain or discomfort. Documenting the observation for later could be important but should not replace immediate communication with the resident to assess their pain.