A resident tells the CNA, Please do not tell anyone, but a staff member took money from my drawer. What should the CNA do?
Answer choices
- APromise not to tell anyone to maintain trust
- BSearch the resident's room for missing money before telling anyone
- CReport the allegation to the nurse immediately per facility policy
- DWait until you see the theft happen yourself
About this question
What should a CNA do when a resident reports staff theft and asks for secrecy? Confidentiality does not override mandatory reporting of abuse, exploitation, or theft allegations. Exam writers use the "please do not tell" line to tempt loyalty over policy. Read the wording and clinical context closely; those details determine the NNAAP competency being tested.
This practice question asks for the correct response. Report the allegation to the nurse immediately per facility policy. Do not promise secrecy, search the room alone first, or wait until you personally witness theft. Protect the resident by reporting, then follow the facility process. For resident reports staff theft, separate privacy of care details from the duty to report harm.
Reveal answer & explanationShow
Correct answer
- APromise not to tell anyone to maintain trust
- BSearch the resident's room for missing money before telling anyone
- CReport the allegation to the nurse immediately per facility policyCorrect
- DWait until you see the theft happen yourself
Basic rationale
Theft and suspected abuse cannot be kept secret. Report to the nurse immediately per policy despite the resident's request for secrecy.
Option explanations
- A: Incorrect. Suspected theft must be reported.
- B: Incorrect. CNAs do not investigate theft.
- C: Correct. Mandatory reporting applies to suspected theft and abuse.
- D: Incorrect. Report suspicions without delay.
Deep Analysis
Core logic
Mandatory reporting overrides promises of secrecy when safety and rights are at risk. Report suspected theft or abuse immediately.
Distractor analysis
A: Promising secrecy may allow continued exploitation. B: Searching the room is investigation, not the CNA role. D: Waiting for proof delays mandatory reporting.
Exam trap
Residents may ask for secrecy, but abuse and theft must still be reported.
Memory tip
Resident says keep secret about abuse: report anyway, immediately.
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