What should an HHA do if a client experiences difficulty breathing?

When a client experiences difficulty breathing, the appropriate action is to immediately notify the supervising nurse or healthcare provider. This is critical because difficulty breathing can indicate a serious medical condition that requires prompt professional assessment and intervention. By alerting a healthcare professional, the HHA ensures that the client receives appropriate care based on the healthcare provider's instructions.

Reassuring the client without taking further action does not address the potential underlying issues causing the difficulty breathing. It is important for the HHA to facilitate a swift response rather than waiting for the situation to resolve on its own.

Assisting the client to a sitting position could potentially provide some relief, but it should not replace the need for professional evaluation, especially if the HHA continues with regular tasks while a serious issue is at hand.

Administering oxygen without consent could lead to legal and ethical violations, as administering medication or treatments typically requires a healthcare provider's order or consent from the client. Therefore, notifying the supervising nurse or healthcare provider is always the best course of action when faced with such a critical situation.