Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 66%
Simulated
The nurse notes old and new ecchymotic areas on an older adult client's arms and buttocks upon admission. The client states to the nurse in confidence that the family members frequently hit him. Which therapeutic statement should the nurse communicate in response?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The nurse should inform the client that nurses cannot maintain confidence about alleged abusive behavior and that the nurse must report situations related to abuse. The nurse avoids bargaining with the client about treatment to maintain a confidence that the nurse is legally bound to report. Options 3 and 4 delay protective action and place the client at risk for future abuse.