An elderly, emaciated client is brought to an emergency department by the client's caregiver. The client has bruises and abrasions on shoulders and back in multiple stages of healing
When directly asked about these symptoms, which type of client response should a nurse anticipate?
A. The client will honestly reveal the nature of the injuries.
B. The client may deny or minimize the injuries.
C. The client may have forgotten what caused the injuries.
D. The client will ask to be placed in a nursing home.
ANS: B
The nurse should anticipate that the client might deny or minimize the injuries. The older client may be unwilling to disclose information because of fear of retaliation, embarrassment about the existence of abuse in the family, protectiveness toward a family member, or unwillingness to bring about legal action.
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