CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsMedium
A nurse aide notices that a dying resident has stopped eating and is taking very little fluid over the past two days. What is the most appropriate action?
- AForce fluids using a feeding tube without consulting staff
- BNotify the nurse and offer small sips or ice chips if the resident wants them
- CInsist the resident eat to prevent malnutrition
- DWithhold all liquids to prevent choking
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Notify the nurse and offer small sips or ice chips if the resident wants them
Decreased appetite and fluid intake are normal, expected changes as the body shuts down near the end of life. The nurse aide should report the change and offer comfort measures like small sips or ice chips without forcing intake.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Feeding tube decisions require medical orders and family/resident wishes, not aide action.
- C. Forcing food can cause distress and is not appropriate near end of life.
- D. Withholding all comfort fluids is unnecessary and can increase discomfort.
Decreased Intake at End of Life
Reduced appetite and fluid intake are natural, expected changes in the dying process and should not be forced.
- Normal part of body shutting down
- Offer comfort measures like ice chips, not forced feeding
- Report changes to the nurse
Memory trick: Dying body needs less, not more.