A nurse suspects that her next-door neighbor, an older woman, is ...

[skymedlock]

A nurse suspects that her next-door neighbor, an older woman, is a victim of elder abuse by her daughter. What is the appropriate action for the nurse to do in this situation?
 
  a. Since the neighbor is not a patient, the nurse should not get involved.
  b. Visit the neighbor frequently to confirm the suspicions.
  c. Complete a confidential report with the adult protective services in the area.
  d. Ask the neighbor herself if she is being abused.

Question 2

Which principle will the nurse consider when preparing instructional information for an older client who will be responsible for wound care after discharge? Select all that apply.
 
  a. The ability to understand written instructions deceases with age.
  b. Learning new tasks is difficult for the aging individual
  c. Provide ample time for the client to ask questions concerning the information
  d. Use a variety of different methods to reinforce the client's learning
  e. Readiness to learn must be assessed before instruction begins

[irishcancer18]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The best action is to make a confidential report with the local adult protective agency. Sus-pected cases should be reported at once to the agency, which will send a trained investigator to determine whether an abusive or imminently dangerous situation exists and will be able to offer safety to the victim and resources to the relatives and family members. In some states with mandatory reporting, failure to report suspicions may result in civil and/or criminal penalties. Also in states with mandatory reporting, the nurse can be held liable for civil and criminal penalties for failure to report suspected cases of abuse. In states without mandatory reporting, it becomes an ethical issue if the nurse is aware of suspected abuse and does not report it. Making a personal investigation will not obtain a safe environment for the neighbor in a timely manner. Asking the neighbor about abuse will not quickly obtain a safe environ-ment or help if needed.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C, D, E
Older adults are able to learn new tasks, although teaching modalities frequently must be redesigned to meet the unique needs of the older adult. Understanding written instructions does not necessarily decrease with age. The remaining options reflect correct information regarding the effective teaching of the older adult.

[skymedlock]

Correct answers!

[irishcancer18]

Great! Please up vote