Patient RightsQuestion 9 of 200

A resident tells the CNA, 'I want to file a complaint about how the night staff speaks to me.' The CNA should:

a.Tell the resident that complaints rarely change anything and encourage her to let it go
b.Inform the resident of the grievance process and assist in contacting the grievance officer or ombudsman without retaliation
c.Hold the concern until the next quarterly care conference, several weeks away, so the whole interdisciplinary team can review it together
d.Investigate the night staff personally and forward the complaint only if the account seems credible

Explanation

42 CFR §483.10(j) and HSC §1599.2 guarantee the right to voice grievances without discrimination or reprisal and require facilities to have a grievance officer with prompt written response. The CNA must support access to the grievance process, including posting Long-Term Care Ombudsman contact information (1-800-231-4024). Discouraging the resident (a), delay (c), and informal investigation by an aide (d) all violate residents' rights and may constitute retaliation if they suppress the complaint.

Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.10(j); HSC §1599.2

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