Abuse

Abuse is the intentional harm or mistreatment of another person, which can be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial, and may occur in any relationship or setting

Physical Abuse: Use of physical force that results in injury or harm

Examples: Hitting, slapping, pushing, burning

Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Behaviors that harm a person’s self-worth or emotional well-being

Examples: Verbal insults, humiliation, isolation, threats

Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior

Examples: Rape, unwanted touching, forcing sexual acts

Financial Abuse: Illegal or improper use of someone’s money, property, or assets

Example: Stealing, coercing into signing documents

Neglect: Failure to meet basic needs of a dependent person

Example: Not providing food, shelter, medical care, hygiene

⚠️ Warning Signs

• Sudden changes in finances or possessions

• Poor hygiene, malnutrition, untreated medical issues

• Unexplained injuries or frequent Emergency room visits

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Fearfulness or anxiety around a specific person

🩺 Nursing Responsibilities

• Assess for signs of abuse during patient interactions

• Document findings clearly, using patient’s own words when possible

• Report suspected abuse to appropriate authorities (mandatory reporting laws apply in all U.S. states for children, elders, and vulnerable adults)

• Ensure safety of the patient before discharge or leaving the facility

• Provide resources such as crisis hotlines, shelters, and counseling services