What should a CNA do if they suspect a patient has pain?

When a CNA suspects that a patient is experiencing pain, it is essential for them to report their observations to the nurse for further assessment. The nurse is trained to evaluate the patient’s condition and determine the appropriate course of action, which may involve administering medication or implementing other pain management strategies.

Recognizing and communicating signs of discomfort are critical components of patient care; pain can significantly affect a patient’s recovery, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. By reporting their observations, the CNA ensures that the patient receives appropriate attention and care, which aligns with the principles of patient advocacy and safety in healthcare settings.

The other choices would not promote the well-being of the patient. Ignoring the suspected pain undermines patient care standards, asking the patient to ignore it can further exacerbate their discomfort, and administering medication without proper authorization and oversight could lead to serious legal and health issues. Therefore, the best practice is to involve the nurse in assessing and managing the patient's pain effectively.