What should Personal Care Assistants do if they notice a patient exhibits confusion mixed with clarity?

When a personal care assistant observes a patient displaying confusion mixed with moments of clarity, it is crucial to take immediate action by notifying the nurse. This approach is essential because fluctuations in a patient's cognitive state can signal an underlying medical issue that requires professional assessment. A nurse or healthcare provider has the expertise to evaluate the situation further and determine if any interventions or immediate care are necessary.

Monitoring and documentation are important, but these should not replace immediate communication with healthcare personnel who can provide appropriate care. Simply reassuring the patient or leaving them alone could compromise their safety and well-being, especially if their condition worsens. The presence of confusion may indicate issues such as dehydration, infection, medication effects, or other health concerns that need to be addressed promptly. Therefore, notifying the nurse is the best course of action to ensure the patient receives the necessary support and attention.