A nurse is discussing the reporting of elder abuse with a newly licensed nurse.
Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?
“Reporting is voluntary for health care workers.”
“If suspicion of abuse exists then reporting is mandatory.”
“Civil liability can result if the abuse can’t be proven.”
“Evidence of abuse must be collected prior to reporting.”.
The Correct Answer is B
According to the National Institute on Aging, health care providers play an important role in recognizing and reporting elder abuse. They have a legal and ethical obligation to report any suspected cases of abuse to the appropriate authorities. Reporting is not voluntary for health care workers.
Choice A is wrong because reporting is not voluntary for health care workers. Choice C is wrong because civil liability cannot result if the abuse can’t be proven. Health care providers are protected by immunity laws when they report suspected abuse in good faith.
Choice D is wrong because evidence of abuse does not need to be collected prior to reporting. Health care providers should report any signs or symptoms of abuse, even if they are not conclusive.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse has a legal and ethical obligation to report any suspected abuse of a vulnerable client, such as an older adult. Reporting the findings is the first action the nurse should take to protect the client and initiate an investigation by the appropriate authorities.
Choice A is wrong because investigating further to confirm the suspicion is not within the nurse’s scope of practice and could delay the reporting process.
Choice C is wrong because providing the client with a crisis hotline number is not enough to ensure the client’s safety and well-being.
The client might not be able to access the hotline or might be afraid to use it.
Choice D is wrong because discussing respite care with the client’s family is not appropriate at this stage.
The nurse should not assume that the family member is willing or able to provide adequate care for the client.
Respite care might be an option after the abuse is reported and investigated.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The Nurse Practice Act is a law that outlines the legal scope of practice for nursing in each state. It defines the roles, functions, responsibilities and activities that a nurse is educated, competent and authorized to perform. The Nurse Practice Act also establishes the regulatory bodies that create and implement rules and regulations to protect the public.
Choice B. Nursing process is wrong because it is a systematic method of providing nursing care, not a legal document that defines the scope of practice.
Choice C. Code of Ethics is wrong because it is a set of principles that guide the moral and professional conduct of nurses, not a legal document that defines the scope of practice.
Choice D. Facility policies and procedures are wrong because they are specific guidelines for each healthcare organization, not a legal document that defines the scope of practice.
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