During a home visit of an elderly married patient, the nurse observes listlessness, dry and cracked skin, and skin irritation on both inner thighs; what type of neglect should the nurse be concerned with?

Question

1. Self-neglect
2. Sexual abuse
3. Caregiver neglect
4. Financial exploitation

Answer 1

3. Caregiver neglect

Explanation: 1. Signs and Symptoms of self-neglect include dehydration, malnutrition, unattended or untreated health problems, listlessness, decubitus ulcers, urine burns, and history of being left alone. Often, the older adult is suspicious and refuses to accept offers of outside help.
2. Signs and Symptoms of sexual abuse include genital bruising, rectal bleeding, and unexplained sexually transmitted diseases.
3. Listlessness, dry/cracked skin, and skin irritation on both inner thighs could indicate urine burns, which is a manifestation of caregiver neglect.
4. The unexplained inability to pay bills or purchase necessary items such as food, shelter, and medication is indicative of financial exploitation.