Exhibits select from Word Choices to complete the sentence. The nurse recognizes that dropdown, dropdown and dropdown are findings consistent with elder mistreatment.

Pressure injuries: Multiple wounds, including a stage II pressure injury and boggy heels, indicate prolonged immobility and lack of repositioning. These are classic signs of neglect in dependent older adults. Poor hygiene: Matted hair, long dirty nails, halitosis, and dry, flaky skin reflect a lack of basic hygiene support. When a dependent elder is not assisted with grooming or bathing, it signals potential physical neglect. Malnutrition: The client’s low weight and visible loss of subcutaneous fat are signs of poor nutritional intake. This can result from caregiver neglect, such as withholding food or failing to provide adequate meals. Rationale for Incorrect Options: Diminished breath sounds: This is more likely related to the client’s heart failure and does not independently indicate abuse or neglect. It is a clinical finding requiring monitoring but not tied to mistreatment. Bilateral leg edema: Edema in both legs is commonly associated with chronic conditions like heart failure. It is not a red flag for elder mistreatment without other indicators of neglect. Dark room lighting: While a dim room may raise concern about isolation or depression, it is not itself a sign of mistreatment. Context is important, and this alone doesn’t suggest abuse or neglect. Short-term memory loss: This may be related to early dementia or normal aging. Memory loss alone does not indicate mistreatment unless it leads to exploitation or is used to justify inappropriate restriction of independence.