What needs did the nursing assistant meet when helping a non-verbal patient who is shivering?

Helping a non-verbal patient who is shivering primarily addresses their communication needs and physical comfort. Non-verbal patients often cannot express their discomfort or needs verbally, so the nursing assistant must be attuned to their physical signs, such as shivering, which is a clear indication that the patient is feeling cold and uncomfortable.

By providing warmth—perhaps through blankets or adjusting the room temperature—the assistant helps to alleviate the physical discomfort resulting from shivering. Additionally, since the patient cannot communicate verbally, the nursing assistant also meets their communication needs by observing non-verbal cues and ensuring that the patient feels cared for and understood. This holistic approach is vital for the well-being of non-verbal patients, as it balances their physical comfort with the need for connection and understanding, even if they cannot articulate these needs directly.