Communication & CultureQuestion 27 of 200
A resident says, 'I just want to die.' The most therapeutic CNA response is:
a.'Don't talk like that, you have so much to live for.'
b.'That sounds really painful. Can you tell me more about what you're feeling? I will let the nurse know right away.'
c.'Everyone feels that way sometimes.'
d.Change the subject to lunch
Explanation
Therapeutic communication uses open-ended invitation, validation, and immediate escalation when statements suggest suicidal ideation. Reassurance clichés (a, c) and topic change (d) shut down the resident and miss safety risk. The CNA must take the statement seriously, listen, and report to the nurse immediately so the resident can be assessed for suicidal ideation and a safety plan implemented—a duty under both standards of care and facility policy.
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