If you witness a co-worker behaving in a way that violates resident rights or safety, what should you do?

• A. Report the concern to your supervisor or the appropriate authority, document the incident, and protect the resident.
• B. Ignore it.
• C. Confront the coworker in front of the resident.
• D. Wait for someone else to notice.

Answer: (A)

When a resident’s rights or safety are at risk, the priority is to protect the resident and get the situation addressed through proper channels. The best course is to report the concern to your supervisor or the appropriate authority, and to document exactly what you observed, including what happened, when, where, who was involved, and any witnesses or evidence. This action prompts an official response, stops the unsafe practice, and helps ensure the resident’s rights are upheld.

Confronting the coworker in front of the resident can escalate tension and may put the resident at greater risk or undermine a calm, professional resolution. Ignoring the issue delays protection and accountability, increasing the chance of harm. Following facility policies and mandated reporting requirements when applicable ensures you act within the legal and ethical standards of care.