A CNA sees a coworker slap a resident across the face. Under California's Elder Abuse Reporting law, the CNA must:
Explanation
Welfare & Institutions Code §15630 makes CNAs mandated reporters of elder and dependent adult abuse. Physical abuse with serious bodily injury must be reported by phone immediately and in writing within two hours; other physical abuse within 24 hours, to local ombudsman or law enforcement and to CDPH. 42 CFR §483.12 also requires immediate facility reporting. Waiting (c), informal handling (d), or conditioning the report on the resident's wishes (b) are violations that expose the CNA to criminal penalties and loss of certification.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.12; W&I Code §15630This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.
Own the complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 →
Related questions on this topic
- A resident in a California skilled nursing facility refuses her scheduled bath. The CNA should:
- A resident's adult son calls the facility asking what medications his mother is taking. The CNA should:
- Which of the following best reflects a resident's right to participate in care planning?
- A nurse orders a vest restraint because a resident keeps trying to get out of bed at night. Before applying it, the CNA knows that under federal restraint rules:
- While giving perineal care, a CNA notices the room door is open and visitors are walking past. The CNA should first:
- A resident has a signed POLST indicating Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) and 'comfort measures only.' The resident becomes unresponsive with no pulse. The CNA should:
Last reviewed: · editorial process