What nursing intervention can a CNA perform for a patient experiencing nausea?

Offering small sips of clear liquids is an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient experiencing nausea because it can help to soothe the stomach and prevent dehydration. Clear liquids, such as water, broth, or clear juices, are gentle on the digestive system and can help to keep the patient hydrated without overwhelming their stomach. This method is often recommended to ease nausea and can gradually introduce fluids back into the system after episodes of nausea or vomiting.

In contrast, encouraging the patient to lie down flat may not be beneficial, as this position can sometimes exacerbate nausea by increasing pressure on the stomach. Providing a heavy meal is generally counterproductive, as a full stomach can worsen feelings of nausea. Ignoring the symptoms could lead to the patient experiencing more severe nausea or even complications, as timely and supportive intervention is important in nursing care.