Elder abuse (Nurses)

This course opens with the definition and estimated prevalence of elder abuse. The ageing and healing processes of the skin and bones is detailed including images. Unit three outlines the physical signs of elder abuse and the possible causal factors for these injuries. Bruising injuries are discussed including differential diagnoses – for example, bleeding disorders and medications. Suspicious bruising, abrasions, lacerations and incisions are described and supported with clinical images. Bites, burns and fractures are also considered. The course then moves to self-harm, defensive and other injuries including sexual assault injuries. How to assess elder patients and avoiding diagnostic errors are described. Unit four discusses the nurse role and includes why it’s easy to fail to diagnose in this challenging area. Risk factors, signs and symptoms covering general, physical, sexual, emotional, economic and neglect are incorporated. Support services information complete this course. 

This course is evidence-based, demonstrates best practice and is regularly updated.

Relevance to Nurses:

Nurse education is critical when it comes to the identification of mental health issues or signs of elder abuse within nursing homes. Nurses have an absolutely vital role within aged care residences when it comes to ensuring our elderly are supported mentally and feeling safe. While less common than mental health challenges, elder abuse, mistreatment, and neglect also take place within aged care facilities, and can easily go unnoticed, however the consequences can be dire. There’s no one size fits all, and many forms of abuse and mistreatment occur, but elder abuse includes much more than just clearer forms of physical or sexual abuse or trauma. Subtle forms of abuse and mistreatment occur commonly too, and this can include psychological and emotional abuse, neglect of basic care needs, and financial manipulation or abuse. Alongside direct contact and observation of residents themselves, observing any concerning interactions between residents, residents and employees, or residents and visitors is important too, particularly when it comes to picking up elder abuse.