When observing signs of difficulty breathing, what should be the nursing assistant's priority action?

In situations where a resident exhibits signs of difficulty breathing, the nursing assistant's priority action is to report to the charge nurse immediately. This course of action is crucial because the charge nurse has the clinical training and authority to assess the situation accurately, implement emergency procedures, and initiate any required interventions. They can also determine whether oxygen should be administered, contact medical professionals, or take other necessary steps to ensure the resident's safety and health.

While notifying the family, administering oxygen, or contacting the physician may seem important, these actions are typically outside the scope of practice for a nursing assistant. The nursing assistant should not administer oxygen unless specifically trained and authorized to do so. Contacting a physician directly is also not in the nursing assistant's responsibilities; the charge nurse serves as the appropriate point of contact for such concerns. Thus, reporting to the charge nurse is the most effective way to ensure that the resident receives the necessary medical attention quickly and safely.