Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

If a resident wanders away from the facility, what is the nurse aide's first action?

1. Contact the resident's family

2. Go after the resident

3. Notify security immediately

4. Wait for the resident to return

The correct answer is: Go after the resident

The appropriate first action when a resident wanders away from the facility is to go after the resident. This response is crucial because the safety and well-being of the resident are the priority. Wandering can pose several risks, including the potential for the resident to become lost, injured, or encounter unsafe situations outside the facility. By pursuing the resident, the nurse aide can quickly assess their condition, provide reassurance, and guide them back to safety. This immediate action helps to prevent any potential harm and is aligned with the fundamental responsibilities of a nursing assistant to ensure the safety of residents at all times. Contacting the resident's family or notifying security may be necessary steps that follow once the resident is located or if the situation escalates. However, the initial focus must remain on ensuring the resident's safety by directly engaging with them. Waiting for the resident to return is not a proactive approach and could have serious consequences if the resident is in distress or danger.