As a mandatory reporter of elder abuse, which of these statements must be present before a nurse notifies the authorities?

Choice A reason: Statements from the victim are valuable but not required for reporting elder abuse. Mandatory reporters must act on reasonable suspicion, as victims may be unable or unwilling to report due to fear or incapacity, making this incorrect. Choice B reason: Witness statements support abuse cases but are not mandatory for reporting. Nurses must report based on suspicion, as waiting for witness corroboration could delay protection, making this an incorrect requirement for notification. Choice C reason: As a mandatory reporter, a nurse must notify authorities based on reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect, as per legal standards. This ensures timely intervention to protect vulnerable elders, even without definitive proof, making this correct. Choice D reason: Proof of abuse or neglect is not required for reporting, as mandatory reporters act on suspicion. Requiring proof could delay or prevent reporting, leaving elders at risk, making this an incorrect threshold for notification.