Final answer:
When a resident is upset about not finding her 'baby,' the nurse aide should offer empathy and assistance, not ignore the situation. By acknowledging the resident's feelings and helping to search for the doll, the nurse aide provides necessary comfort and support.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario described, it is important to understand that the resident may be experiencing memory issues or confusion, which is common in certain populations such as the elderly or those with cognitive impairments. When she is wandering around crying that she can't find her baby, the nurse aide should approach the situation with sensitivity and empathy. The nurse aide should not ignore the doll, as it clearly holds significant value to the resident. Instead, the nurse aide should engage with the resident by acknowledging her feelings and assisting her in looking for the 'baby.' The text provided, 'The little one sleeps in its cradle, I lift the gauze and look a long time, and silently brush away flies with my hand. The youngster and the red-faced girl turn aside up the bushy hill,' seems to reflect a caring and gentle approach, which is the recommended course of action in this situation. By showing understanding and offering to help, the nurse aide can provide comfort and reassurance to the resident, which is crucial in care settings.