Question

Based on a client's vague explanations for recurring injuries, the nurse suspects that a community-dwelling older adult may be the victim of abuse. What is the nurse's primary responsibility?

a) Report the findings to adult protective services. b) Confront the suspected perpetrator.
c) Gather evidence to corroborate the abuse.
d) Work with the family to promote healthy conflict resolution.

Answer 1

The nurse's primary responsibility when suspecting elder abuse is to report the findings to adult protective services, as this action is pivotal in ensuring the safety of the patient.

Step-by-step explanation:

Responsibility of a Nurse Suspecting Elder Abuse

When a nurse suspects that an older adult is a victim of abuse based on the client's vague explanations for recurring injuries, the nurse's primary responsibility is to report the findings to Adult Protective Services (a). The nurse's obligation to report suspected elder abuse is both an ethical and legal one, reflecting a critical role in the safeguarding of vulnerable individuals. Confronting the suspected perpetrator (b), gathering evidence (c), or working with the family to promote healthy conflict resolution (d) are not immediate actions that a nurse should take and can potentially place the victim at greater risk or impede a proper investigation by authorities with the legal mandate to investigate such concerns.

Elder abuse is a significant concern, and healthcare professionals are often on the front lines of recognizing and responding to this issue. Nurses must understand their role in this and act accordingly to ensure the safety of their patients.