A 30-year-old living in a care home presents with multiple untreated caries. What should be done?

Correct answer: A. Report neglect

• A. Correct overall direction — neglect of a dependent/vulnerable adult resulting in lack of basic dental care should be addressed/reported through appropriate channels, with documentation as the situation develops.
• B. Treating without addressing/documenting the underlying neglect concern misses an important duty to protect a vulnerable patient.
• C. Vulnerable/dependent adults in care facilities are subject to mandatory reporting protections; this is not simply a matter of ignoring due to 'autonomy.'
• D. Immediate law enforcement involvement without proper documentation/assessment first is not the standard initial approach.

Note: First instance → document findings and obtain consent for care. If a pattern of neglect continues → report through appropriate channels.