Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What action should the nurse take if they suspect elder abuse/neglect during an assessment?

1. Have a staff member present during family visits.

2. Report the findings.

3. Discuss the situation with the family.

4. Ask the patient who is providing his care.

The correct answer is: Report the findings.

When a nurse suspects elder abuse or neglect during an assessment, the appropriate action is to report the findings. Reporting is essential because it initiates a formal investigation into the suspected abuse or neglect, ensuring that the vulnerable individual receives the protection and support they need. As mandated reporters, nurses are legally required to report any suspicions of abuse to the appropriate authorities, which can help prevent further harm and ensure that the elder receives necessary interventions. This action also aligns with the ethical responsibility of healthcare professionals to advocate for patient safety and well-being. By reporting, the nurse enables professionals trained in handling such situations to conduct a thorough assessment and provide appropriate resources and interventions. Other options, such as having a staff member present during family visits or discussing the situation with the family, may not adequately address the immediate concern of potential abuse. These actions could inadvertently compromise the safety of the elder and may not lead to the necessary protective measures being taken. Similarly, asking the patient who is providing care might place them in a difficult and potentially unsafe situation, especially if the caregiver is the one suspected of abuse. Therefore, the most responsible and effective course of action is to report the findings to the proper authorities.