A nurse aide notices a patient has bruises that look like handprints. The patient is confused and cannot explain them. What should the aide do?

Question

Accepted Answer

Document what was observed and report to the nurse or supervisor immediately. Documenting and reporting immediately is the proper response to suspected abuse. Asking family (A) may alert the abuser. Assuming a fall (C) ignores signs of potential abuse. Taking personal photos (D) violates privacy and is not part of proper reporting procedures.