A nurse is assisting in the care of an older adult. The client appears to be malnourished and bruising is noted on their arms and legs. The nurse should identify which of the following as the legal responsibility of the nurse?

A. Notifying the caregiver of the findings: If the caregiver is potentially involved in abuse or neglect, informing them directly could put the client at further risk. The nurse must follow appropriate reporting channels rather than confront the caregiver. B. Including findings during hand-off report: While communication during hand-off is important for continuity of care, it does not fulfill the nurse’s legal obligation to formally report suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. C. Documenting suspicions in the client's medical record: Accurate and objective documentation of findings is important, but simply recording observations in the medical record does not meet the legal responsibility to report suspected abuse. D. Reporting findings to social services: Nurses are mandated reporters and must legally report suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate protective services. Reporting ensures that an investigation can occur to protect the client from further harm.