If an HHA is unsure how to perform a task, they should

• A. Attempt and invent steps
• B. Refuse to perform and notify supervisor or nurse for instruction
• C. Ignore and hope for the best
• D. Do something else entirely

Answer: (B)

If you’re unsure how to perform a task, your priority is patient safety and doing things correctly within your training. The correct approach is to pause, do not proceed with the task, and immediately tell your supervisor or the nurse so you can receive proper instruction or authorization. This follows the agency’s policies and the established chain of command, ensuring you use the right technique and precautions to protect the patient and yourself. Trying to improvise steps, ignoring uncertainty, or doing something else without guidance can lead to harm, mistakes, or violations of your scope of practice. So, you should seek clear instructions before proceeding.