| People who may have been victims of abuse or neglect may come to the hospital needing treatment for the injuries sustained from the suspected abuse, or for other medical care. Patients may be unable or reluctant to speak of the abuse, which may not be obvious to the casual observer; however, hospital staff members are educated to identify possible victims of abuse and to recognize the potential for abuse by caregivers dealing with older adults. |
Hospitals can play a key role in the prevention, identification and treatment
of elder abuse. Anyone can learn to recognize the signs
and symptoms of
elder abuse.
PREVENTION
When a nurse or physician suspects a caregiver is under a great deal of stress, a referral may be made to the social work department. The hospital social worker will meet with the caregiver to make recommendations and referrals to community agencies, such as the local Department of Aging, to reduce the stress level of the caregiver. Some hospitals offer support groups or educational classes for caregivers. When the caregiver is providing care to a person with Alzheimer's disease or other dementia, the hospital may offer evaluation clinics and other support services. Prevention strategies may be suggested for older persons and their families, as there is much that can be done to reduce one's risk of being abused.
IDENTIFICATION
Regardless of whether the patient enters the hospital on an outpatient or inpatient basis, the medical staff is required to monitor the patient's physical, behavioral, and emotional health and responses to changes. When a licensed staff member (physician, nurse, social worker, therapist) suspects abuse has occurred, the licensed staff member is required by law to report the suspected abuse to the Department of Social Services, which is responsible for Adult Protective Services (APS) investigations. Generally, when a staff member suspects abuse, he or she also makes a referral to the hospital social worker. The social worker will interview the patient and caregiver and coordinate a discharge plan that addresses the alleged abuse situation. This plan may include placement in another setting. The physician will complete a physical examination and order any tests needed to properly document the suspected abuse.
TREATMENT
A person who has suffered suspected abuse might need medical or psychiatric
care. These services
are provided on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the needs
of the individual. The hospital may also play an important role in helping
the caregiver through counseling services or referrals to appropriate
community resources.
IF YOU SUSPECT ABUSE AT THE HOSPITAL If you suspect abuse of your loved one by a staff member or another patient in the hospital, you should immediately report the matter to the nurse or social worker. The hospital is required to investigate and refer the case to the local Department of Social Services and the police for independent investigations. If you are concerned the staff will not handle the case appropriately, you may make an Adult Protective Services referral directly. In Baltimore County, call 410-853-3000, press #2. In other areas in Maryland contact the local Department of Social Services and ask for the APS unit. |