Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CNA Practice Questions and Study Guide

Prioritizing the action of reporting the resident's observation to the nurse is essential in this scenario because the assistant is witnessing signs of respiratory distress, which can indicate a serious medical issue. The nurse is trained to assess situations like this and can take the appropriate steps, such as providing immediate medical intervention or further evaluations.

While activating the emergency response team is a possible course of action, it may not be necessary at this moment unless the nurse determines that the situation requires urgent escalation. Adjusting the resident's position can sometimes help with breathing, but doing this should be guided by nursing assessment and not assumed to be the immediate solution. Retrieving the resident's medical records may provide useful information but will not address the immediate health concern observed during the activity. Therefore, reporting the respiratory signs to the nurse is the most appropriate action to ensure the resident receives timely and proper care.