Final answer:
When a resident complains of sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, the nursing assistant should immediately seek medical assistance, call for help, monitor the resident's vital signs, and reassurance until professional help arrives.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a resident complains of sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, the nursing assistant's first action should be to ensure the resident's safety and then seek immediate medical assistance. It is crucial to recognize that these symptoms can be indicative of serious conditions such as angina, pulmonary embolism, or an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). Knowing that chest pain and difficulty breathing are potential medical emergencies, the nursing assistant must respond quickly and efficiently.
In the described scenario, the first step is to call for help, either by activating the emergency response system in the medical facility or calling 911 in other settings. While waiting for medical professionals to arrive, the nursing assistant should monitor the resident's vital signs and provide reassurance. Attention to the resident's comfort and ongoing assessment of their condition is essential. It is not within the scope of practice for a nursing assistant to diagnose or provide specific treatments, but initiating the emergency response is the priority.