When suspecting elder abuse/neglect in a patient, what should the nurse do?

When suspecting elder abuse/neglect in a patient, the nurse's primary responsibility is to report the findings. Reporting suspected elder abuse/neglect is essential to protect the vulnerable adult from further harm and to ensure that appropriate interventions and support are provided. Having a staff member present during family visits, discussing the situation with the family, and asking the patient who is providing their care are important steps in the assessment process, but the most urgent and crucial action in cases of suspected elder abuse/neglect is to report the findings to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and intervention.