An older adult arrives with unexplained bruises, accompanied by a son who is the legally responsible caregiver. What is the most appropriate action?

When abuse is suspected, first interview the patient alone to gather information privately and safely; appropriate reporting follows based on findings and mandatory-reporting laws.Other options: Reporting without assessment, ignoring the signs, or confronting the caregiver in front of the patient can endanger the patient or be premature.Key exam takeaway: Suspected abuse: separate and interview the at-risk person privately, document, then report per mandatory-reporting duties.