Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

How can a nurse aide best support a family visiting a dying resident?

1. Encourage them to speak loudly to the resident

2. Ensure that the resident and room are neat and comfortable

3. Provide refreshments to the family

4. Limit the time of visits to avoid distress

The correct answer is: Ensure that the resident and room are neat and comfortable

Supporting a family visiting a dying resident involves fostering a serene and dignified environment for both the resident and the family. Ensuring that the resident and the room are neat and comfortable helps create a peaceful atmosphere, which can be comforting during this difficult time. A tidy and inviting space can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that family members may feel, allowing them to focus on their loved one. The other choices, while they may have some value, do not address the core need for comfort in such sensitive circumstances. Encouraging loud communication may not be appropriate as it could disturb the resident and may not facilitate a calming environment. Providing refreshments could be a nice gesture, but it does not prioritize the emotional support and comfort that the resident and family truly need at this moment. Limiting visit time could be seen as unkind or restrictive, as families typically appreciate the opportunity to spend as much time as they can with their loved ones during their final moments. Thus, ensuring comfort for both the resident and the room is the most supportive action a nurse aide can take in this situation.