Assignment task:
If I were the hospital counselor, the first thing I would do is ask Amanda to step out into the hall with me so we could discuss insurance and medical history pertaining to Mary, leaving the medical staff to examine the grandmother to address her immediate medical concerns and at the same time look for visual signs of abuse. While speaking to the granddaughter I would determine if she had power of attorney over her grandmothers' medical decisions, all while trying to build a rapport with her, putting her at ease so as not to raise her suspicions so that I could gather as much information on the situation as possible. Refer to the ER staff to review their findings and then speak with Mary alone. Ask relevant questions and listen to her responses including body language to evaluate whether opening a suspected abuse case is warranted. To develop a program to prevent elder abuse and neglect I would begin with public awareness, starting with local communities, possibly hosting a block party for neighbors to meet neighbors. Educating them on the signs to look for, and providing them with contact information to report suspected abuse. Encourage them to check in on their elderly neighbors and get to know them. I would also speak privately to each elderly person living in that community and provide them with numbers to call if they need help.(TF)
In response to your peers, provide feedback on the program suggestions discussed.