CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyHard
A nurse aide is caring for a resident who has a new colostomy. The resident is very anxious about managing the stoma and changing the pouch. What is the most important initial action for the nurse aide?
- AChange the pouch quickly to minimize the resident's discomfort.
- BOffer to teach the resident how to change the pouch independently.
- CTell the resident that it will get easier with time and practice.
- DListen to the resident's concerns and provide emotional support.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Listen to the resident's concerns and provide emotional support.
When a resident is anxious about a new medical device or procedure, the most important initial action is to address their emotional state. Listening to their concerns and providing emotional support helps build trust, reduces anxiety, and makes them more receptive to learning and coping strategies. This person-centered approach is foundational before proceeding with physical care or teaching.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Changing the pouch quickly might reduce physical discomfort but ignores the underlying emotional distress and doesn't empower the resident.
- B. Teaching is important, but the resident's anxiety must be addressed first for them to be receptive to learning.
- C. While true, this dismisses the resident's current feelings and doesn't provide immediate support.
Emotional Support for New Ostomy
The nurse aide's role in providing emotional support and reassurance to residents coping with a new colostomy or ostomy.
- Acknowledge and validate the resident's feelings (anxiety, fear, grief).
- Listen actively to their concerns.
- Provide reassurance and gentle encouragement.
- Offer opportunities for them to participate in care at their own pace.
- Report emotional distress to the nurse.
Memory trick: Hear their fear, then share your care; calm the heart before you repair.