ons also govern reporting abuse of a disabled person.
If you suspect domestic violence, serious injuries like burns or gunshot wounds should be reported to the police. A safety plan should be discussed with the patient and documented.
Helping Patients Who May Be Abuse Victims
While specific laws and regulations vary from state to state, almost all US states require nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to report suspected abuse. Not only is it the ethical thing to do, but it may also be a legal requirement. Never hesitate to say something to the appropriate authorities if you suspect that one of your patients has been the victim of abuse.