During morning care, a resident quietly says, 'Everyone would be better off if I just did not wake up tomorrow.' What must the nursing assistant do?

• A.Promise to keep the statement secret because the resident asked you to
• B.Laugh it off and assume the resident is only joking to get attention
• C.Wait until the end of the week to see if the resident says it again
• D.Take the statement seriously, stay with the resident, and report it to the nurse immediately

Why

Any talk of not wanting to live or harming oneself must be treated seriously and reported immediately, never kept secret. Staying with the resident provides safety until the nurse can intervene and assess the risk.

Content outline: Psychosocial Care Skills - Emotional and Mental Health Needs: Supporting Mental Health · From the Psychosocial Care Skills practice bank (PS-004).

Practice this domain as a full test

More Emotional & Mental Health Support questions

• Mrs. Alvarez used to join bingo every afternoon, but for the past week she has stayed in her room, turned away visitors, and said she is too tired for everything. What should the nursing assistant do?
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• A new resident sits alone and watches others play cards but has not joined in. What is a supportive way to encourage social activity?
• Mrs. Okafor can button her blouse slowly on her own, although it takes several minutes. How can the nursing assistant best promote her independence?