After a patient has received terrible news about the death of a loved one, what is the best response from the CNA?

The response indicating "I know you're in real pain. I'll stay here and keep you company" is effective because it acknowledges the patient's feelings and offers emotional support, which is crucial in times of grief. Recognizing a person's pain provides validation and can help them feel understood, which is an important component of effective communication and caregiving.

By expressing empathy and a willingness to be present, the CNA reinforces their role as a compassionate caregiver. The offer to stay with the patient signals that they are not alone during a difficult moment, thereby fostering a sense of connection and safety. This approach can encourage the patient to express their feelings more openly and can help them begin to cope with their loss.

Choosing to dismiss or redirect the conversation, as seen in other options, may inadvertently make the patient feel isolated or disregarded during their time of need. Therefore, maintaining an empathetic response that affirms the patient's experience is integral to providing quality care.