What to Do When a CNA Isn't Sure How to Perform a Task: Ask a Colleague for Guidance

Finding your footing as a CNA means more than memorizing steps. It means building habits that keep patients safe, care consistent, and teammates reliable. In Alabama, as in many healthcare settings, the moment you’re unsure about how to perform a task is the moment to lean on your team. Here’s a friendly, practical guide to how that works in real life, with a focus on safer care and smoother shifts.

Hey, what do you do when you’re unsure?

Let me explain with a simple scenario. You’re at a patient’s bedside, a task is on your list, and a detail isn’t crystal clear. Do you push through, hope for the best, or pause and ask for help? Here’s the thing: the right move is to ask another CNA for guidance. It sounds straightforward, but it carries real benefits.

• It keeps the patient safe. When you double-check with someone who’s more experienced, you reduce the chance of a mistake.

• It builds trust in the team. When coworkers see you asking for clarification, they know the care plan is followed carefully.

• It speeds up learning. Shared tips and real-world pointers from colleagues help you grow faster, without risking a patient’s safety.

Why not wing it, skip the task, or wait for a supervisor?

Skipping a task or guessing is a quick path to trouble. In a busy unit, delays matter—patients don’t wait for perfect timing, they rely on timely care. Waiting for the supervisor is sometimes necessary, but it can slow things down and leave a patient without what they need at that moment. Guessing? That’s a recipe for harm or unnecessary discomfort. And in healthcare, even small missteps can have bigger consequences.

Asking a coworker is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of responsibility, teamwork, and common sense. In Alabama facilities, CNAs often work closely with licensed nurses and other team members. Tap into that network. You’ll be surprised how frequently a quick question saves time and prevents miscommunication.

A practical approach you can use

When you’re unsure, here’s a practical, repeatable process you can follow. It’s designed to be quick, respectful, and patient-centered.

• Pause and check safety: First, make sure you and the patient are safe. If you’re worried about the patient’s immediate comfort or health, address that part right away.

• Review the care plan or notes: A glance at the patient’s plan, MAR (Medication Administration Record) if relevant, or recent progress notes can often answer your question without delay.

• Find a coworker to consult: Look for another CNA or a nurse who’s nearby. A simple, “I want to do this right—could you show me the best way to handle this task?” goes a long way.

• Use a standard method for asking questions: In formal terms, you can frame the request with a quick description, the concern, and what you’re hoping to accomplish. Something like, “I’m preparing to assist with passive range of motion, but I want to make sure I’m following the correct technique for this patient. Could you confirm the steps you’d take?” It keeps communication clear and efficient.

• If no one is available, escalate appropriately: If you truly cannot reach someone, refer to the unit’s protocol. Call the nurse in charge or the supervisor, and explain what you’re unsure about and what you’ve done so far.

• Document and reflect: After the task, note what you did, what you learned, and what you’ll do differently next time. This isn’t about punishment—it's about growth and safe care.

SBAR: a simple tool for clear communication

Many healthcare teams use a communication framework called SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation). It’s a neat way to convey what you need, quickly and clearly.

• Situation: “I need guidance with [task] for [patient].”

• Background: “Patient has [relevant history or care plan details].”

• Assessment: “My understanding is [your current plan or concern].”

• Recommendation: “I’d like [the next step, or a demonstration, or the supervisor’s input].”

Using SBAR isn’t about being formal; it’s about making sure everyone’s on the same page fast. And in Alabama facilities, it’s a familiar, respected habit that helps teams respond smoothly.

A couple of realistic Alabama-centered moments

Think about everyday tasks you’ll encounter on a unit: positioning a patient for comfort, assisting with feeding, transferring from bed to chair, or applying a simple skin care routine. Each of these tasks can carry unique considerations depending on the patient’s condition, mobility, or treatment plan.

• Positioning and comfort: If a patient asks you to adjust a pillow or change a position and you’re unsure about technique, a quick consult with a CNA who’s worked with this patient can prevent strain or slides.

• Assistance with feeding: If you’re unsure about swallowing precautions or dietary restrictions for a patient, it’s smart to verify with a nurse or a dietitian if needed. A small pointer from a teammate can avert aspiration or dietary errors.

• Transfers and mobility: Lifts and transfers involve body mechanics. If you’re unsure about the safest method for a specific patient, asking for a demonstration or a quick supervision check is the safest move.

• Hygiene and comfort: A lot of patient comfort comes from a careful touch and respect for privacy. If you’re uncertain about a procedure’s steps, asking for guidance helps you preserve dignity while getting the job done right.

The big picture: teamwork, safety, and growth

There’s a cultural tilt in good healthcare teams: when in doubt, ask. It’s not a sign of hesitation; it’s a signal that you care about the patient and about delivering consistent care. In Alabama, where facilities range from skilled nursing centers to hospital units, this teamwork mindset isn’t just nice to have—it’s part of the daily standard.

A few practical tips to keep in mind

• Know your boundaries and the care plan: Familiarize yourself with each patient’s routine and be aware of changes. If something doesn’t line up with the plan, that’s your cue to ask.

• Build relationships on the floor: Introduce yourself to the nurses, CNAs, and other team members you’ll be collaborating with. A quick, friendly check-in can make it easier to ask for help when you need it.

• Use available resources: Unit guidelines, care plans, and equipment manuals are invaluable. When in doubt, a quick reference can be a lifesaver.

• Respect the patient’s pace: If a task involves the patient’s comfort or independence, involve them in the process when possible. A patient who understands what’s happening is more cooperative and less anxious.

• Track learning moments: When you ask for guidance and learn something new, write it down for future use. It’s a small habit, but it compounds into real confidence over time.

Common-sense tone with a touch of warmth

Sure, you want to be efficient, but you also want to be thoughtful. The aim isn’t to chase perfection in every moment but to create a rhythm where care is safe, steady, and humane. A work environment that supports asking questions, sharing tips, and correcting course when needed is powerful. It reduces stress, avoids mistakes, and, frankly, makes the day feel a little more human.

A final nudge to keep you going

If you ever wonder, “What’s the right move when I’m unsure?” remember this: reach out to a teammate. A calm, quick cross-check is the practical expression of a patient-first mindset. It’s how you protect patients, learn continuously, and build a culture of trust on the floor.

In Alabama, like most healthcare settings, this approach matters. It keeps the focus where it belongs—on the person being cared for—while you, the caregiver, grow more confident with every shift. So next time doubt shows up at the bedside, choose connection over hesitation. Ask, learn, and carry on.

If you want a compact reminder, keep this thought in your pocket: when unsure, ask a CNA you trust for guidance. It’s simple, it’s effective, and it’s how good teams care for people—one task, one patient, one day at a time.