Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action for a nursing assistant to take when a resident complains of pain?

1. Notify the nurse

2. Administer pain medication

3. Dismiss the complaint

4. Contact the family

The correct answer is: Notify the nurse

When a resident expresses discomfort or pain, notifying the nurse is the correct action for a nursing assistant. This is crucial because the nurse is responsible for assessing the situation and determining the appropriate intervention, which may include administering medication or other treatments. A nursing assistant’s role is to observe and report; they are not qualified to make medical decisions or administer medications unless specifically instructed and trained to do so. Additionally, dismissing the complaint would neglect the resident's feelings and needs, which is contrary to providing compassionate care. Contacting the family, while it could be appropriate in certain circumstances, is not the immediate action that addresses the resident's pain directly; instead, it is vital to first inform the nurse, who can then decide if the family needs to be involved. Therefore, promptly notifying the nurse ensures that the resident receives the necessary care efficiently and effectively.