A nurse in a hospital setting assesses an older adult and is ...

[beccaep]

A nurse in a hospital setting assesses an older adult and is unsure if the assessment data warrant notification to the authorities for elder abuse. Which action is most appropriate for the nurse at this time?
 
  A) Determine if the person has dementia.
  B) Discuss findings with the family.
  C) Follow the hospital protocol for reporting.
  D) Question the visitors.

Question 2

An older adult who appears to be between 85 and 95 has been brought to the emergency department by emergency medical services after being found wandering in the street.
 
  The older adult is filthy, confused, and exhibits numerous bruises to the face and neck as well as signs of malnutrition and dehydration. What problem should the nurses prioritize for assessment and intervention?
 
  A) Hygiene
  B) Malnutrition
  C) Dehydration
  D) Potential elder abuse

[chevyboi1976]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: C
The nurse is a mandatory reporter for potential elder abuse; the authorities can make the final determination if abuse has occurred or not. Nurses assess all potential contributing conditions but the immediate responsibility is to follow the protocol for reporting. Determining whether the person has dementia is not within the scope of nursing.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
Nursing guidelines emphasize that interventions related to hydration status are higher priority than most other problems, including hygiene, and malnutrition; elder abuse is not an immediate threat when the older adult is in a health care setting.