What should a Personal Care Assistant do if a patient develops new-onset confusion?

When a patient develops new-onset confusion, it is critical for a Personal Care Assistant to notify the nurse. This symptom could indicate a variety of underlying medical issues, including infections, medication reactions, dehydration, or even more serious neurological events. Promptly communicating this change in the patient’s condition allows for a timely assessment and intervention by medical professionals.

Ignoring the symptoms could lead to worsening of the patient's condition, while waiting for the patient to wake up might delay necessary medical evaluation. Additionally, simply documenting the behavior without taking action does not address the potential urgency of the situation, which could compromise the patient’s health and safety. Quick action in reporting such changes ensures that appropriate care is initiated without delay.