When should a CNA communicate changes in a patient's condition to the nursing staff?

A CNA should communicate changes in a patient's condition to the nursing staff immediately if there are significant changes because timely communication is critical in healthcare settings. Immediate reporting ensures that nurses can assess the situation quickly and take necessary actions to address any potential issues, which can significantly impact patient outcomes. Early intervention can prevent complications, ensure that the patient receives the appropriate care, and facilitate timely decision-making by the healthcare team.

Waiting until the end of a shift, as suggested in one of the options, can lead to delays in necessary care and potentially worsen the patient's condition. Communication during weekly staff meetings or only when prompted by a nurse does not adequately address urgent situations that require prompt attention and may result in harmful outcomes for the patient due to a lack of timely intervention. Therefore, the correct practice is to report significant changes as soon as they are observed.