NCLEX RN Practice Question

The correct answer is to report the findings to the appropriate authorities, as nurses are mandated reporters when they suspect abuse or neglect. The nurse does not need definitive proof to report, only reasonable suspicion based on evidence or behaviors observed during the assessment. While asking the caregiver could provide additional information, it is not the nurse's role to investigate or validate suspicions of abuse, as this could potentially place the client at greater risk. Similarly, documentation and ongoing monitoring are important but insufficient without taking immediate protective action. Encouraging the client to share more in the future delays necessary intervention in what could be an unsafe situation for the client.