An older client who lives with a caregiver is admitted to an emergency department with a fractured arm. The client is soaked in urine and has dried fecal matter on lower extremities. The client is 6 feet tall and weighs 120 pounds. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of urine and fecal matter on the client's body indicates that the client's basic hygiene needs are not being met, which raises concerns for abuse and/or neglect by the caregiver. The client's weight and height may also indicate malnutrition or neglect. Option A, inability to meet self-care needs, can be a valid reason, but in this case, the caregiver seems responsible for not providing the necessary care. Alzheimer's disease (option B) is not a likely cause of neglect unless the caregiver is overwhelmed because of their ability to provide care. Caregiver role strain (option D) may be a contributing factor, but abuse and neglect must be ruled out first.

An Older Client Who Lives with a Caregiver Is Admitted