Final answer:
A CNA should encourage a diabetic resident to eat a balanced meal before dessert to maintain blood sugar levels, offer healthy substitutes, and seek further assistance if needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a resident is diabetic and is refusing to eat anything on their plate except the dessert, the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) should first understand the importance of balanced meals in regulating blood sugar levels. It is vital to address the situation calmly and empathetically.
The CNA should encourage the resident to eat other parts of the meal before the dessert to maintain their blood sugar levels, explain the consequences of not following a diabetic diet, and offer to substitute the dessert with a healthier alternative if possible. If the situation doesn't resolve, the CNA may need to inform the nursing staff or a dietitian for further assessment and intervention.