If a resident develops delirium or sudden confusion, what is the correct CNA response?

• A. Wait to see if it resolves
• B. Notify the nurse promptly, ensure safety, reorient and provide a calm environment, check for common causes (infection, meds, dehydration)
• C. Restrict activity
• D. Administer sedative

Answer: (B)

Delirium is an acute, often reversible change in attention and awareness that signals a medical issue needing prompt assessment. The best CNA response is to act quickly: notify the nurse right away, ensure the resident’s safety (prevent falls, remove hazards), and start supportive care. Reorient the resident, speak calmly and clearly, and create a calm, familiar environment to reduce confusion. At the same time, look for common triggers such as infection, medication changes, dehydration, pain, or electrolyte problems and report these observations so the nurse can investigate and treat. This approach protects the resident from harm and supports timely medical evaluation.

Waiting to see if it resolves delays care and can allow harm to occur. Restricting activity can worsen delirium and physical decline. Administering a sedative is inappropriate and dangerous, as it can mask symptoms and worsen outcomes.