A practical nurse (PN) is assessing an older adult client during a routine clinic visit. The PN observes multiple unexplained bruises on the client's torso. The client appears anxious and immediately stops speaking when their adult child enters the examination room. Which action is legally required by the PN?
- Notify the designated adult protective services agency about the suspected abuse.Cevap
- BWait to gather undeniable proof of physical harm before filing an official report.
- CRespect the client's privacy and only report the findings if the client explicitly requests help.
- DDocument the physical findings in the medical record and rely on the healthcare provider to initiate the report.
Cevap
The PN must notify the designated adult protective services agency about the suspected abuse.
Healthcare professionals, including practical nurses, are mandated reporters. When there is a reasonable suspicion of elder abuse—such as unexplained physical injuries combined with fearful behavior—the nurse is legally obligated to report the suspicion to the appropriate state authorities or facility supervisor immediately. The nurse's role is to report the suspicion, not to investigate or prove the abuse.
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Anahtar Kavram
Mandatory Reporting of Elder Abuse