Final answer:
Generally, nursing assistants cannot administer medications such as nitroglycerin, which is commonly used to treat chest pain. Administration of medications is usually the responsibility of licensed healthcare professionals, such as RNs or LPNs. Thus, the statement in question is typically considered false.
Step-by-step explanation:
The administration of medication by nursing assistants can vary based on local laws and regulations, as well as the policies of the healthcare facility where they work. However, generally speaking, nursing assistants are not licensed to administer medications. Medications like nitroglycerin, which is used to treat angina (chest pain), are typically administered by licensed healthcare professionals such as registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). A nursing assistant may assist with medication management in some capacity, but actually giving medication, particularly one that is as critical as nitroglycerin, usually falls outside their scope of practice.
Therefore, the statement 'A nursing assistant can administer nitroglycerin to a resident when the resident requests it' is generally false. A nursing assistant should notify a licensed nurse if a resident is experiencing chest pain and requesting nitroglycerin. Furthermore, the administration of medication without proper authority may lead to legal implications and compromise patient safety.