Mental HealthQuestion 132 of 200
A previously cheerful resident now sleeps most of the day, eats only a few bites at meals, has lost five pounds in two weeks, and tells the CNA, 'What's the point of getting out of bed?' The CNA should:
a.Wait two more weeks to see if the mood lifts
b.Tell the resident to 'cheer up' and think positive
c.Move the resident to a brighter room without telling the nurse
d.Report all observations and the resident's statement to the charge nurse immediately and document in the chart
Explanation
Depression in older adults is common, often missed, and dangerous — it raises suicide risk and accelerates physical decline. Warning signs: anhedonia, sleep/appetite change, weight loss, hopeless statements. The CNA must report observations and verbatim resident statements to the nurse without delay so the resident can be assessed by the IDT and physician for depression and suicide risk. Waiting (a) risks deterioration or suicide. 'Cheer up' messages (b) shame the resident and worsen depression. Unilateral room changes (c) exceed CNA scope. 42 CFR §483.40 mandates behavioral health services.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.40; Title 22 CCR §72527Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- Which cognitive change is considered a NORMAL part of aging rather than a sign of dementia?
- Which behavior in an elderly LTC resident should the CNA report as a POTENTIAL warning sign of suicide risk?
- A resident with dementia repeatedly wanders out of her room and into other residents' rooms. The MOST appropriate first response is to:
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- A widowed resident with no nearby family says, 'No one ever comes to see me.' Which CNA action BEST addresses her psychosocial well-being?
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