What should the nursing assistant encourage residents to do when assisting them to dress or undress?

When assisting residents to dress or undress, encouraging them to participate and help as they are able is essential because it promotes independence and helps maintain their dignity. Involving residents in their care allows them to retain a sense of control over their environment and contributes positively to their mental and emotional well-being.

Participation in dressing or undressing can also provide physical benefits, as it encourages movement and may help residents maintain or improve their motor skills. It reinforces their self-esteem and fosters a sense of accomplishment, which is vital in a long-term care setting.

The other options do not support the residents' autonomy and can lead to feelings of helplessness or dependency. Remaining completely passive can deprive residents of the opportunity for engagement and self-expression that comes with being involved in their own care. Observing without assistance fails to provide any benefit to the resident and may lead to feelings of frustration if they are unable to dress themselves alone. Lastly, insisting that residents dress themselves without any help might be unrealistic or unsafe, especially for those with physical limitations or cognitive impairments. Encouraging participation strikes a balance between providing support and fostering independence.