Communication & CultureQuestion 32 of 200

Two family members argue loudly at the bedside about a parent's care. The CNA should first:

a.Ask both family members to leave the building until they can speak calmly
b.Calmly acknowledge the tension, ensure the resident is safe and comfortable, invite the family to a quieter area, and notify the nurse or social worker
c.Side with the calmer family member so that the argument ends more quickly
d.Step out of the room and let the family resolve the disagreement themselves

Explanation

De-escalation involves remaining calm, acknowledging feelings, redirecting to a private space, and engaging appropriate professionals (nurse, social worker) for facilitated discussion. The resident's emotional safety is the first priority; arguments at the bedside cause distress. Siding (c) inflames conflict; ignoring (d) abandons the resident; expelling family (a) is rarely necessary and damages the therapeutic relationship and visitation rights.

Law Reference: ANA standards; therapeutic communication

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