jury
- Lack of immunizations or necessary medications
- Indicators of prolonged exposure to the elements, such as sunburn or insect bites
- Hazardous or unsafe living conditions, such as not having running water or heating
- Unsanitary living conditions
Some of the behavioral indicators that neglect is taking place include:
- Age-inappropriate behaviors in children, such as bedwetting or self-soiling
- Withdrawn demeanor
Financial abuse is a form of abuse that’s often carried out against geriatric patients. It’s probably the least well-known form of abuse, but it’s frighteningly common, and it’s something that you, as a nurse, can report to the proper authorities.
Signs of probable financial abuse include:
- Sudden changes in a person’s bank account or banking practice, such as an unexplained withdrawal of a large sum
- Inclusion of additional names on a bank card
- Unauthorized withdrawal of funds using the person’s ATM card
- Abrupt changes in a will, advance directive, or other documents
- Substandard care or unpaid bills, despite the availability of adequate finances
- An unexplained sudden transfer of assets to someone
- The person reporting financial exploitation
Your Legal Obligations
If you have evidence that a patient is the victim of abuse, you must report it. While state laws vary, you most likely have a legal obligation to do so.
If a child is being abused, you should contact your local Child Protection Services. If a person between 18 and 22 is mentally disabled, they are still considered a child, and so contacting CPS is still appropriate.
If you suspect elderly abuse, you may be subject to specific laws in your state. In New Hampshire, for example, elderly abuse is covered under the Adult Protection Law. If you have reason to believe that a geriatric patient is being subject to abuse or neglect, you must contact the Bureau of Elderly & Adult Services.
If you’re not sure where to report elderly abuse, look for specific regulations and agencies in your state of residence. Similar state-level regulations 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.