Question

The nurse observes the nursing assistant speaking harshly to an elderly client. Which action is most appropriate? A. Ask the nursing assistant to speak in a lower tone because he is disturbing the other clients B. Report the nursing assistant to the charge nurse C. Reassign the nursing assistant to a younger client D. Call the nursing assistant aside to discuss the observation

Short answer

Answer: Option D (Call the nursing assistant aside to discuss the observation)

Step-by-step solution

Option A: Ask the nursing assistant to speak in a lower tone because he is disturbing the other clients

This option only addresses the noise disturbance and doesn't address the main issue of the nursing assistant speaking harshly to the elderly client. Even if the nursing assistant speaks in a lower tone, the harsh treatment of the elderly client continues.

Option B: Report the nursing assistant to the charge nurse

This option involves escalating the situation to the charge nurse who is responsible for the overall nursing care provided and can take appropriate action to rectify the behavior of the nursing assistant. This option can lead to improved patient well-being and potentially prevent this behavior in the future.

Option C: Reassign the nursing assistant to a younger client

This option doesn't solve the problem and only shifts it to another client. The nursing assistant's inappropriate behavior might continue with the younger client, and the problem remains unaddressed.

Option D: Call the nursing assistant aside to discuss the observation

This option involves directly confronting the nursing assistant and discussing the inappropriate behavior. It can lead to an immediate improvement in their behavior and provides an opportunity for the nursing assistant to learn from the incident and reflect on their actions. From the analysis of the options, the most appropriate action in this situation is:

Correct Answer: Option D

Calling the nursing assistant aside to discuss the observed harsh treatment to the elderly client not only helps in immediately addressing the issue but also provides an opportunity for the nursing assistant to learn from their mistake and improve their behavior in future interactions with clients.