Practice Question
An older patient holds the nurse's hand and states, "Please don't leave me alone here when my son comes to visit." What should this indicate to the nurse?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
The patient is afraid of what her son might do.
Rationale:
🔷 When an older patient expresses fear of being left alone with a family member, especially while holding the nurse’s hand or seeking reassurance, it may indicate fear of abuse, neglect, or mistreatment.
🔷 This statement is a red flag for possible elder abuse, which can be physical, emotional, financial, or psychological. The nurse must take it seriously and assess further in a private, safe environment.
🔷 The nurse should avoid leaving the patient alone with the suspected individual, document the statement verbatim, and follow facility protocols for reporting suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities or social services.
🔷 The nurse’s priority is to ensure the patient’s immediate safety and provide emotional support while maintaining a nonjudgmental approach.
🔷 Early recognition and reporting are vital to protect the patient from further harm and connect them to protective and supportive services.
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This question is from VNSG201 Geriatrics Summer 2025 (NS) Final Exam which contains 25 questions.
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From Exam
VNSG201 Geriatrics Summer 2025 (NS) Final Exam
25 Questions
View Full Exam Start PracticingQuestion Details
- Category: LPN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: LPN HESI Exams
- Domain: Fundamentals of Nursing
- Answer Choices: 4