CNA Certification (Written Exam)Resident Rights and Legal/EthicalEasy
A resident tells the nurse aide she is unhappy with the food served at the facility and wants to file a formal complaint. What should the nurse aide do?
- AIgnore the request since food complaints are not the aide's concern
- BTell the resident to wait until her family visits to bring up the issue
- CTell the resident to stop complaining since the kitchen staff try their best
- DInform the resident of her right to voice grievances and report the complaint to the nurse or appropriate staff
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Inform the resident of her right to voice grievances and report the complaint to the nurse or appropriate staff
Residents have the legal right to voice grievances without fear of reprisal, and staff must ensure complaints are heard and addressed, typically by reporting to a nurse or supervisor. Ignoring or dismissing the complaint violates this right.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. All staff share responsibility for supporting resident rights, including grievances.
- B. Delaying action denies the resident's right to have concerns addressed promptly.
- C. Dismissing the complaint violates the resident's right to voice grievances.
Right to Voice Grievances
Residents have the legal right to file complaints about care or treatment without fear of retaliation, and facilities must address them promptly.
- Complaints must be reported, not dismissed
- No retaliation is allowed against the resident
- Ombudsman can also be contacted for unresolved issues
Memory trick: Voice it, don't silence it.