A nurse is developing an interdisciplinary care plan for an 86-year-old client who was recently admitted after reporting financial abuse by a family caregiver. The client lives alone, has early-stage dementia, and expresses reluctance to involve law enforcement. Which of the following actions best balances safety with respect for client autonomy?

A. Request that the facility's legal team initiate conservatorship to protect the client's assets: Conservatorship is a restrictive legal measure that removes significant autonomy. It is pursued only after thorough evaluation of capacity and consideration of less invasive options. B. Recommend that the health care provider complete a capacity evaluation and assign a guardian if needed: A capacity evaluation may become necessary if the client’s dementia progresses and financial decision-making is compromised. However, at this early stage, imposing guardianship without exploring other supports undermines the client’s autonomy. C. Refer the client to adult protective services without consent, as mandated by elder abuse laws: While nurses are mandated reporters, immediate referral without the client’s engagement may erode trust. Involving APS is important, but it should be coupled with supportive strategies that respect the client’s expressed wishes. D. Collaborate with a social worker to identify supportive resources and explore options for financial management and caregiving: This balances safety and autonomy by addressing the abuse while respecting the client’s reluctance to involve law enforcement. Social workers can connect the client with protective services, financial counseling, and community support.