When a resident says, 'Nobody here cares about me at all,' what is the best reply?

• A.Reply that the statement is untrue and the resident should know better
• B.Agree quietly and walk away to avoid an argument
• C.Tell the resident to say that to the family instead of to staff
• D.Acknowledge the feeling, stay present, and say you are here and will listen

Why

Validating the emotion keeps communication open and may reveal loneliness or depression that should be reported. Arguing about whether the statement is literally true dismisses how the resident feels.

Content outline: Psychosocial Care Skills - Emotional and Mental Health Needs: Supporting Mental Health · From the Psychosocial Care Skills practice bank (PS-016).

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?
• A resident who usually eats well has left most meals untouched for three days and says food no longer tastes good. What is the nursing assistant's best action?
• Mr. Chen becomes tense and breathes quickly while waiting for a medical appointment, saying, 'What if something is very wrong?' How should the nursing assistant respond?
• 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 new resident sits alone and watches others play cards but has not joined in. What is a supportive way to encourage social activity?