A resident in a California skilled nursing facility refuses her scheduled bath. The CNA should:
Explanation
Under 42 CFR §483.10(a) and California HSC §1599.65, residents have the right to be treated with dignity and to make choices about care, including the right to refuse treatment. The CNA must honor the refusal, document the refusal and any reason given, and notify the licensed nurse so the care plan can be revisited. Forcing care (a, d) constitutes battery and abuse; threats or coercion (c) violate dignity and the Patients' Bill of Rights. Refusal documentation protects the resident, staff, and facility.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.10(a); HSC §1599.65This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
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