What should a nurse aide do if they observe a resident showing sudden behavioral changes?

When a nurse aide observes sudden behavioral changes in a resident, it is critical to report these changes to the charge nurse. Sudden alterations in behavior can be indicative of various underlying health issues, including medication side effects, changes in mental status, or worsening medical conditions. By promptly reporting the behavior to a licensed nurse, the healthcare team can assess the situation more thoroughly, determine the cause, and implement any necessary interventions.

While documenting the changes can be important for tracking the resident's condition over time, it does not take the place of immediate communication with a licensed healthcare professional who can provide a timely assessment. Ignoring the changes could allow a potentially serious issue to go unaddressed, and discussing it with the resident's family may give them concern without involving the appropriate medical oversight needed to evaluate the situation effectively. Hence, communicating these observations to the charge nurse ensures the resident receives the appropriate attention and care.