What should a CNA do when they notice a patient becoming increasingly lethargic?

When a CNA notices a patient becoming increasingly lethargic, the appropriate action is to immediately alert the nurse for further assessment. Lethargy can be a sign of various medical issues, such as infection, electrolyte imbalance, or other complications that require professional evaluation and intervention. Promptly notifying the nurse ensures that the situation is assessed quickly and allows for appropriate medical care to be initiated.

Monitoring changes in a patient's condition is a critical part of a CNA's responsibilities. Being proactive in communicating such observations can potentially prevent further deterioration of the patient's health. It is not sufficient to simply document the observation and wait for a nurse's evaluation, as timely intervention is often essential in healthcare settings where the patient’s condition can change rapidly. Dismissing lethargy as normal aging does not take into account that lethargy is often a symptom indicating that there may be an underlying health issue. Providing fluids may be helpful if dehydration is suspected, but without a full assessment by the nurse, it may not address the root cause of the lethargy and could delay necessary medical attention.