Penny Gilbert
Background: Child and elder abuse and/or neglect have been a long standing healthcare topic. Family structure, socioeconomics, and developmental tasks often increase the burden for healthcare providers to identify abuse and neglect of the very young or elderly. These same factors often increase the risks for abuse or neglect. However, there are individual state laws requiring healthcare professionals report suspected abuse/neglect, else face legal ramifications. Abuse may appear in multiple forms according to Dong (2012). These include maltreatment in the form of psychological, physical, and sexual abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Childhood abuse often leads to psychological issues that follow the individual into adulthood. It is important nurses learn to recognize signs and symptoms of abuse and/or neglect and report per local regulation requirements. Advocating for one's patient(s) and for one's self creates positive outcomes for all involved.
Purpose: The purpose of this manuscript is to encourage nurses across the United States to acquire education on abuse and/or neglect reporting requirements and to take action when appropriate, advocating for those that cannot self-advocate.
Conclusions: It is imperative nurses recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect, advocate for those that cannot do so and follow local state regulations/laws. Literature research reveals approximately 120 children are substantiated as experiencing abuse and/or neglect per hour. In the U.S. greater than 3.4 million children will live with a grandparent due to mother substance abuse disorder and the number of abused or neglected elderly is simply unknown.
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