The nurse suspects that elder abuse may be occurring when a confused and agitated 76-year-old patient with a broken arm is brought to the emergency department by a family member. Which of these actions should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The initial action should be assessment and interviewing of the patient. The patient should be interviewed alone because the patient will be unlikely to give accurate information if the abuser is present. If abuse is occurring, the patient should not be discharged home for a later assessment by a home health nurse. The nurse needs to collect and document physiologic data before notifying the elder protective services agency.

The Nurse Suspects That Elder Abuse May Be Occurring When