A resident indicates she is too tired for her bath. What is the best course of action?

The best course of action is to tell the resident that you will come back a little later and see if it is a better time. This approach respects the resident's autonomy and right to make choices about their own care. It acknowledges her current feelings of tiredness while also conveying that her personal care is important. By offering to return later, you are allowing her the opportunity to feel more rested and comfortable, which can lead to a more positive bathing experience.

This response also demonstrates empathy, as it shows you are listening to her needs and concerns. It encourages her to communicate openly about her preferences and health, which is a vital aspect of resident-centered care. Ultimately, it fosters a trusting relationship between you and the resident, which is essential in a healthcare setting.

The other options do not align as closely with the principles of respect for patient autonomy and individualized care. For instance, scheduling the bath for the next day disregards her immediate feelings about the current situation and could lead to feelings of frustration if she still feels tired tomorrow. Referring to a physician’s orders or family preferences suggests a lack of consideration for the resident's own preferences and feelings, which may further disengage her from her care process.