What should a nurse do when suspicious of elder abuse?

When a nurse suspects elder abuse, it is essential to approach the situation with care and sensitivity. Privately interviewing the client about her condition can be a vital step in understanding the situation more clearly. This approach allows the nurse to establish trust and create a safe environment for the client to share any concerns or experiences regarding potential abuse. By engaging in a private conversation, the nurse may be able to gather more detailed information about the elder's circumstances, feelings, and any specific incidents that might indicate abuse.

However, it is also important to remember that interviewing the client should be done thoughtfully, ensuring their comfort and safety, and should be paired with appropriate actions, such as reporting findings to authorities where required by law to protect the elder. This option emphasizes the need for direct communication and understanding the victim's perspective before taking further steps. Collecting information directly from the client can be crucial for appropriate follow-up actions and interventions.