Ethics & Law · single question

85-year-old patient with bruises, withdrawn, accompanied by verbally aggressive son (RA, taking adalimumab and aspirin). Most appropriate action?

Document and report at next visit
Ask patient to return alone next time
Speak privately with the son
Report suspected elder abuse to authorities immediately per state law

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Correct answer: D. Report suspected elder abuse to authorities immediately per state law

Elder abuse (physical + psychological) must be REPORTED IMMEDIATELY by mandatory reporters. Unlike adult intimate partner violence (speak with patient first), elder AND child abuse require immediate reporting regardless of patient consent.

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85-year-old patient with bruises, withdrawn, accompanied by verbally aggressive son (RA, taking adalimumab and aspirin). Most appropriate action?

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