When observing a resident who has gained 10 pounds, has swollen ankles, and difficulty breathing, what should the nursing assistant do?

The appropriate action in this situation is to report the observations to the charge nurse immediately. When a resident exhibits symptoms such as sudden weight gain, swollen ankles, and difficulty breathing, these can be indicative of a serious medical condition, potentially related to heart failure or fluid retention. As a nursing assistant, it's crucial to communicate any significant changes in a resident's condition to the supervising nurse, who can then assess the situation more thoroughly and take necessary actions.

Prompt reporting is essential because these symptoms can worsen quickly and may require urgent medical attention. By alerting the charge nurse, the nursing assistant ensures that the resident receives appropriate evaluation and treatment in a timely manner, enhancing the likelihood of a positive outcome and maintaining patient safety.

In contrast, simply monitoring the resident without reporting does not facilitate immediate action, which is critical in acute situations. Providing extra fluids could exacerbate the condition, especially if the resident is experiencing fluid overload. Checking the medication schedule is important, but it does not address the immediate concern of the resident's health status. Thus, while some options may seem reasonable, reporting to the charge nurse is the most responsible course of action.