How should you respond to a change in a resident's condition?

• A. Notify the nurse promptly and document the change according to facility policy.
• B. Ignore and continue care
• C. Wait for the next shift
• D. Call family only

Answer: (A)

When a resident’s condition changes, the most important action is to ensure timely professional evaluation and clear record-keeping. The correct approach is to promptly notify the nurse in charge and document the change and any actions taken, following the facility’s policy. This approach ensures that a qualified clinician can assess the situation quickly, adjust the care plan if needed, and provide a traceable record of what was observed and how it was addressed. Good documentation also supports coordinated team care and protects the resident and staff legally.

Other options don’t provide timely professional assessment or proper documentation, which can compromise safety. Ignoring the change or continuing care delays necessary evaluation. Waiting for the next shift delays urgent attention. Calling family alone does not substitute for professional assessment or formal documentation and may not align with policy.