When a nurse aide observes a patient with signs of abuse, what is the most appropriate action?

Question

Accepted Answer

Report the suspected abuse to the supervisor or nurse immediately. Reporting suspected abuse to the supervisor or nurse is the legal and ethical duty of all healthcare workers. Keeping it confidential (A) violates mandatory reporting laws. Asking the patient directly (C) may put them at risk and is not the proper reporting protocol. Personal documentation without reporting (D) fails to protect the patient and is negligent.