What should a CNA do if a patient falls?

When a patient falls, the most important action a CNA should take is to assess the patient’s condition and notify a nurse immediately. Assessing the patient's condition helps in determining the extent of any injuries or the patient's overall medical status following the fall. This is critical because some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as concussions or fractures.

By notifying a nurse right away, the CNA ensures that an appropriate response is initiated, which may involve further medical evaluation or treatment. Your training has taught you that timely and accurate communication within the healthcare team is essential for patient safety and effective care.

In contrast, leaving a patient alone after a fall poses significant risks, as it prevents the potential for timely intervention if there are hidden injuries. Ignoring the situation is a dangerous choice, as appearing fine does not guarantee that the patient has not sustained a serious injury. Additionally, waiting for other staff to arrive without taking action is not appropriate as immediate assessment and intervention are critical in maintaining patient safety. Each of these other choices undermines the responsibility a CNA has to ensure the immediate well-being of the patient following an incident like a fall.