The home health nurse assesses an older adult client and observes possible signs of abuse.
Which resource should the nurse use to guide their decision regarding reporting these suspicions?

Answer and explanation The correct answer is C. Choice A rationale

While applying antibiotic ointment to the sores might help prevent infection, it does not address the underlying issue causing the sores and poor healing.

Choice B rationale

Although a diet rich in nutrients can promote wound healing, it is not the most immediate need for this client. The client’s symptoms suggest a serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.

Choice C rationale

The client’s symptoms of pale, bluish feet and sores on both lower extremities that are healing poorly suggest a severe and untreated medical condition, possibly related to circulation or skin integrity. Therefore, the nurse should refer the client to a healthcare provider for a complete evaluation.

Choice D rationale

Sending the client to the emergency department for treatment might be necessary in some cases, but it is more appropriate to first refer the client to a healthcare provider for a complete evaluation.

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice B.

Choice A rationale

While practicing safe sex can significantly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it does not completely eliminate the risk. Condoms, for example, can protect against many STIs, but they are not 100% effective and do not protect against all types of STIs.

Choice B rationale

Informing sexual partners about a gonorrhea diagnosis is crucial. Gonorrhea is a highly contagious infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. If a person has been

diagnosed with gonorrhea, their sexual partners may also be at risk and should be informed so they can seek testing and treatment if necessary.

Choice C rationale

It’s important to understand that STIs, including gonorrhea, can be asymptomatic, meaning they do not present any symptoms. Therefore, even if a partner does not have similar symptoms, they could still be infected.

Choice D rationale

Not all STIs are transmitted through sexual intercourse. Some STIs can be transmitted through non-sexual means. For example, HIV can be transmitted through sharing needles, and mother- to-child transmission can occur during childbirth or breastfeeding.