How can a CNA best support a patient's emotional needs?

Providing companionship and actively listening to a patient are fundamental ways a nursing assistant can support a patient's emotional needs. Emotional support is crucial in healthcare, particularly for individuals who might be experiencing feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or fear associated with their health conditions.

When a CNA offers companionship, they help create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation, which is especially important in a healthcare setting. Active listening involves paying attention to what the patient is expressing, validating their feelings, and responding appropriately. This practice fosters trust and can lead to improved patient satisfaction, as patients feel respected and understood.

In contrast, the other options would not effectively address a patient's emotional needs. Financial advice may be outside the nursing assistant's scope of practice and may not resonate with the patient’s immediate concerns. Setting strict boundaries can isolate patients emotionally, as it may convey a lack of empathy or willingness to engage. Minimizing conversations not only limits emotional expression but can also increase feelings of loneliness, directly undermining the support patients may require during vulnerable times.