Identify the type of injuries on a checklist or in a narrative description. Conclude your documentation with a picture of the injuries. Have the attending physician and the photographer sign any photographs and write the date. If you suspect that your patient has been abused, follow your facility's policies and guidelines for reporting abuse. Many organizations have multidisciplinary response teams that specialize in dealing with cases of this type.
All states have statutes on abuse.
Most require professionals to report all suspected incidents of elder abuse to officially designated agents. Laws differ from state to state, so you may need help locating the correct agency to report abuse. If your older patient has been abused or you suspect imminent risk, initiate a safety plan for her. She and her caregiver may benefit from referrals to social services, counseling services, and legal assistance. Or she may need safe home placement, court protection, or possibly hospital admission.