What is the primary focus of a professional nursing assistant while providing care to residents?

The primary focus of a professional nursing assistant while providing care to residents is encouraging the resident to be as independent as possible. This approach aligns with the core philosophy of patient-centered care, which emphasizes the importance of respecting residents' autonomy and dignity. By promoting independence, nursing assistants help residents maintain their self-esteem and improve their quality of life. This can involve assisting residents in performing daily activities, offering support while ensuring they retain control over their routines.

Encouraging independence is vital not only for the emotional and psychological well-being of residents but also for their physical health, as it can lead to better mobility and functionality over time. It allows residents to engage in their care actively, which can contribute to better recovery outcomes and satisfaction with their care experience. Other activities, such as documenting interactions, administering medications, or physical therapy exercises, while important, do not prioritize the resident's independence in the same way.