How should a CNA provide comfort and support to a resident near the end of life?

• A. Respect wishes, maintain comfort measures, provide gentle touch and reassurance, keep the environment calm, and report any changes to the nurse.
• B. Focus only on completing tasks quickly.
• C. Withdraw support to respect privacy.
• D. Encourage resident to self-care despite fatigue.

Answer: (A)

Providing comfort and support near the end of life means focusing on relief from distress, honoring the resident’s preferences, and being a calming presence. The best approach includes respecting wishes, continuing comfort measures, offering gentle touch and reassurance, keeping the environment calm, and promptly reporting any changes to the nurse so adjustments can be made. This supports dignity, reduces fear, and helps manage symptoms like pain or shortness of breath, while ensuring the care team can respond quickly as needs change. Being present, speaking softly, and providing supportive touch can be as meaningful as any medical intervention.

Rushing through tasks ignores comfort and can increase distress. Withdrawing support contradicts the resident’s need for presence and symptom relief. Pushing self-care when fatigue is overwhelming can be unsafe and inappropriate.