Final answer:
Gene should listen respectfully to Mrs. Goldman's recount of her religious services, practice active listening, and maintain a supportive and non-judgmental stance without sharing his own beliefs on religion.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario presented, Gene, a nursing assistant (NA), is faced with a resident, Mrs. Goldman, who starts to talk about her religious experiences. Regardless of Gene's personal beliefs, professionalism in healthcare demands respect for patient autonomy and the various aspects of their life, including spirituality.
The best response for Gene in this situation would be to listen respectfully and show empathy towards Mrs. Goldman's experiences. Engaging in active listening not only supports the therapeutic relationship between patient and caregiver but also honors the dignity of Mrs. Goldman. Additionally, Gene should avoid sharing his personal views on religion, as doing so could unintentionally upset the resident or make her feel her beliefs are not respected.
In summarizing the course of action for Gene, he should:
- Practice active listening without interjecting his personal beliefs.
- Express understanding or politely acknowledge Mrs. Goldman's recount without agreeing or disagreeing with the religious content.
- Focus on providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment.