A 75-year-old female has been brought to the emergency department. She tells the nurse that her son, who has taken care of her, said he would "be right back," but she has not seen him for weeks. The nurse is concerned that the patient is describing which possible situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's description of her son leaving and not returning for weeks suggests abandonment, which is the act of deserting a vulnerable person, such as an elderly or disabled individual, who is in need of care or support. Neglect is a failure to provide appropriate care or attention, physical abuse involves intentional harm or injury, and self-neglect is when an individual neglects their own basic needs for hygiene, food, and medication.

A 75-Year-Old Female Has Been Brought to the Emergency Department