In a situation where a resident is choking, what is the first action that the CNA should take?

The first action a CNA should take when a resident is choking is to ask the resident if they are choking. This is crucial because it allows the caregiver to assess the situation directly. If the resident can respond or communicate, it provides vital information about their level of distress and whether they can still talk or cough.

Assessing the situation first is important because it confirms that the resident is indeed experiencing a choking incident. Responses such as coughing or the ability to speak indicate less severe obstruction, which may not require immediate intervention like the Heimlich maneuver. Engaging the resident in communication keeps them calm and helps the CNA determine the correct course of action based on the resident's responses.

The other options involve immediate physical interventions or monitoring without first checking if the resident is actually choking, which may not be necessary. Not addressing whether the resident is choking before taking further action could lead to unnecessary escalation or inappropriate interventions.