What action should a nurse aide take if they are unable to answer a resident's question?

When a nurse aide is unable to answer a resident's question, it is important to prioritize the resident's need for accurate information and support. Politely informing the resident that assistance is needed demonstrates respect for their inquiry and ensures they are not left feeling dismissed or ignored. By seeking help from a nurse or supervisor, the aide is facilitating a situation where the resident can receive the correct information and support they require. This not only fosters a trusting relationship between the resident and the staff but also upholds the standard of care in a healthcare setting by ensuring that questions are answered by someone with the appropriate knowledge and expertise.

Ignoring the question can leave the resident feeling unvalued and can contribute to increased anxiety or confusion. Guesses can lead to misinformation, potentially affecting the resident's understanding and trust in their care team. Writing the question down for later could lead to avoidable delays in providing the resident with the necessary information, which can impact their care experience. Therefore, the practice of seeking clarification from a more knowledgeable source is the most appropriate action to take.