In: Nursing
Am elderly client has been identified as a victim of physical abuse. In planning care, the nurse places highest priority on:
a. Obtain treatment for the abusing family member.
b. Adhering to the mandatory abuse reporting laws.
c. Notifying the case worker to intervene in the family situation.
d. Removing the client from any immediate danger.
Answer is D. Highest priority is removing the client from any immediate danger to prevent further injury. Since it is a crisis situation that requires immediate intervention . The client should provide comfort and support.
All other interventions are also formulated during planning phase, but preventing further injury is highest priority.
A. Obtain treatment for the abusing family member. The nurse should take the history and find cause of elder abuse. Then plan appropriate intervention for the family member, to discuss about problems and identify remedial measures.
B.Adhering to the mandatory reporting laws.It is a responsibility of the nurse. It can be done after providing immediate care.
C.Notifying the case worker to intervene in the family is important to prevent furher episodes as well as to encourage communication between client and caregiver, sharing their difficulties help to find alternate solutions.Case worker can do follow up.