What should a nursing assistant do if an activity is not listed in the care plan?

When an activity is not included in the care plan, the nursing assistant should not perform the activity. This is important because care plans are specifically tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient. They are developed by healthcare professionals to ensure that all interventions are appropriate and safe for the patient's condition. Performing an activity that is not authorized in the care plan may not only compromise the safety of the patient but can also lead to unintended consequences for their health.

Additionally, care plans are critical for maintaining effective communication between the healthcare team members about a patient's care. By adhering strictly to these plans, nursing assistants ensure that they are following established protocols and contributing to a cohesive care approach. Consequently, any activity not documented in the care plan should be addressed with the supervising nurse for guidance, rather than executed on the nursing assistant's initiative.