Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

What should a home health aide do if a patient falls and complains of pain in his hip?

1. Help him to get up and walk to the bed

2. Assess the injury and call for help if needed

3. Encourage him to stay still until help arrives

4. Ignore the complaint if there is no visible injury

The correct answer is: Assess the injury and call for help if needed

When a patient falls and complains of pain, it is essential for a home health aide to prioritize the safety and well-being of the patient. Assessing the injury and calling for help if needed ensures that the aide can determine the severity of the situation and provide appropriate assistance. This approach allows for proper evaluation of the patient's condition, which may involve checking for broken bones or other serious injuries, especially since a hip injury can lead to complications. By assessing the injury, the aide can gather information on the patient's level of pain, mobility, and any possible visible signs of trauma. If the injury appears serious, calling for emergency assistance is crucial, and it allows trained medical professionals to take over the care. This response also protects the aide and ensures that the patient receives proper medical attention. The other options present actions that could potentially worsen the patient's condition or fail to address the immediate need for assessment and care. Being able to identify the right course of action in this situation demonstrates an understanding of safe practices in home health care, which is critical for any home health aide.