The ambulatory care nurse should understand that elder abuse is a significant issue that can result from both unintentional and intentional neglect, and awareness and vigilance are critical in protecting elderly clients.
The ambulatory care nurse caring for an elderly client should be aware of the prevalence and seriousness of elder abuse. Contrary to the options presented, not all victims of elder abuse are victims of poly-victimization, and the claim that more than 3 in 5 victims are men and 75 years or older is not supported by the available data, which indicates a sizable number of female victims.
Perhaps the most critical point is that elder abuse can indeed be a result of intentional or unintentional neglect. This includes a range of harms such as physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Caregivers may unintentionally neglect elders due to lack of experience, high stress, or inadequate support. On the other hand, intentional abuse often comes from those with a history of depression or from those who were abused themselves.
In conclusion, elder abuse is a significant issue that nurses must be aware of and vigilant against. It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse to protect the vulnerable elderly population in their care.