If a resident expresses thoughts of self-harm, what should you do?

• A. Dismiss the thoughts as attention-seeking.
• B. Ignore and continue routine care.
• C. Take seriously, ensure immediate safety, notify the nurse, and follow facility policy for suicide risk assessment and support.
• D. Tell the resident to sleep it off.

Answer: (C)

When someone talks about self-harm, the priority is their safety and getting professional help involved right away. Take the feelings seriously and don’t brush them off as something the resident will just get over. As a CNA, stay calm, listen with empathy, and immediately alert the nurse in charge, then follow the facility’s policy for suicide risk assessment and support.

First, help ensure immediate safety: stay with the resident, remove or secure any items that could be used to hurt themselves if it’s safe to do so, and quickly assess whether there is a concrete plan, means, or timing. Report what you’ve heard and observed to the nurse, and document according to policy. Don’t promise confidentiality when there’s risk; follow the required reporting procedures. The nurse will conduct an official risk assessment and arrange appropriate support from mental health professionals and the care team.

Provide reassurance and nonjudgmental support, and continue to monitor the resident as directed. Dismissing the thoughts or telling them to sleep it off is not appropriate or safe. This approach ensures the resident gets timely, appropriate care and reduces immediate danger.