Ohio Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What should be done if a dining assistant notices changes in a resident's behavior?

1. Ignore the changes

2. Document the changes

3. Immediately report to the supervisor

4. Conduct a personal assessment

The correct answer is: Immediately report to the supervisor

When a dining assistant observes changes in a resident's behavior, the most appropriate action is to immediately report these changes to a supervisor. This is crucial because changes in behavior can be indicative of underlying health issues or emotional distress that may require professional assessment and intervention. Nursing home staff are trained to recognize signs that may signify the need for medical evaluation or a change in care plan, and timely reporting can lead to prompt actions that may benefit the resident’s health and wellbeing. Documenting the changes is certainly important for tracking purposes and ensuring continuity of care, but it should not be the first step taken in response to observed changes. Similarly, conducting a personal assessment could lead to misinterpretations or interventions that should be reserved for trained medical personnel. Ignoring the changes could put the resident at risk and is not an acceptable practice in a care facility. Thus, the best course of action aligns with ensuring that trained staff are made aware of any concerning changes so they can take informed action.