CNAs must adhere to ethical guidelines, which prohibit accepting gifts or money from patients. Accepting tips can be seen as unprofessional and could lead to conflicts of interest. The CNA should politely decline the offer and explain that it is against policy to accept tips or gifts.
As a CNA, it's important to respect a patient’s autonomy and their right to make personal health decisions, even if you disagree with those decisions. The CNA’s role is to provide care according to the patient’s wishes and care plan, without imposing personal beliefs. Always maintain professionalism and prioritize the patient's choices.
Patient confidentiality is protected under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). CNAs must not share patient information with anyone who is not directly involved in the patient’s care, including family members, without the patient’s consent. It is important to protect the privacy of all patient health information.
It is the ethical responsibility of a CNA to report any unprofessional or inappropriate behavior, especially if it involves the mistreatment or disrespect of a patient. Making fun of a patient’s condition is both unethical and unprofessional, and such behavior should be reported to a supervisor to ensure it is addressed.
Respecting a patient’s religious beliefs is an important part of providing ethical and compassionate care. If a patient is fasting for religious reasons, the CNA should respect their choice and notify the nurse to ensure the patient’s condition is monitored appropriately. Never force or coerce a patient into eating if it goes against their personal beliefs.
