A resident becomes verbally aggressive and raises a fist toward the CNA during a bath. The BEST de-escalation response is to:
Explanation
De-escalation: stop the trigger task, give the resident space, lower voice and posture, validate feelings, and remove yourself if unsafe to summon help. Pushing the resident's hand down (a) or holding her arms down to finish the bath (d) is physical restraint without a physician order and informed consent, violating 42 CFR §483.12 (right to be free from abuse and unnecessary restraint); unconsented physical force during care is also battery (PC §242) and abuse — grounds for immediate termination, criminal prosecution, and CDPH license revocation. Arguing (c) escalates. Title 22 CCR §72319 requires policies on resident behavior management without abuse.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.12; Title 22 CCR §72319This 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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