How to screen for elder abuse
Other platforms explain it with text and video. In VMS you practice it on the patient.
Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, financial or neglect. Many cases are hidden, so health workers must ask.
Step by step
Interview alone
Talk to the patient without the caregiver present for part of the visit. [1]
Ask direct questions
Ask if anyone hurts them, scares them, takes their money or does not help them when needed. [1]
Look for signs
Notice unexplained bruises, burns, poor hygiene, weight loss or pressure sores. [1]
Watch the caregiver
Notice if the caregiver answers for the patient or seems hostile. [1]
Document clearly
Record the patient's words in quotes and describe injuries in detail. [1]
Report as required
Report suspected abuse to Adult Protective Services as your state law requires. [1]
Plan for safety
Make sure the patient is safe before they leave and involve social work. [1]
Common errors
- Interviewing only with the caregiver present.
- Explaining away injuries as falls.
- Not reporting because proof is missing.
Practice it in VMS
In VMS you do this on the patient, not on paper: every step goes on the checklist with a score, and in Teach mode Blocky tells you what comes next.
VMS cases that train this skill
Sources
Facts and steps follow CDC STEADI (falls in older adults); NCSBN 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan. VMS is not affiliated with these organizations. Updated: 2026-10-11.