Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

When a patient complains of pain, what should a home health aide do first?

1. Ask the patient to describe the pain

2. Call the doctor immediately

3. Offer some warm tea

4. Change the patient’s position

The correct answer is: Ask the patient to describe the pain

When a patient complains of pain, the most appropriate initial action is to ask the patient to describe the pain. This step is crucial because it provides you with valuable information regarding the location, intensity, and nature of the pain, which are essential for assessing the situation appropriately. Understanding the patient's experience can help in determining the next steps for managing the pain effectively. Gathering this information allows the home health aide to relay accurate details to a healthcare professional if further intervention is needed. By involving the patient in the conversation about their discomfort, you also demonstrate compassion and support, which can help alleviate some anxiety they may be experiencing. Offering warm tea, changing the patient’s position, or calling the doctor can be appropriate actions, but they depend on the specifics of the patient’s condition and pain description. However, without first understanding the patient's experience of pain, these actions may not address the underlying issue effectively.