GField 9 – Reporting of Suspected Abuse
There may be instances where you may have some suspicions that an individual you are working with is being abused, neglected, or exploited. Any suspicions need to be reported to the appropriate agencies for investigation.
Let’s take a look at the following scenario.
Scenario:
Clarissa, SSWI, was making a home visit to her SCL client, Jenna. Jenna resides in an FHP with Susan and her husband, Gene. When Clarissa arrived at the home, Susan and Gene attempted to tell her that Jenna was sleeping. Clarissa insisted on seeing Jenna anyway, as she needs to conduct her routine visit face-to-face. When Clarissa saw Jenna, she noticed bruising on her face on the forehead, cheek, and chin regions. She also noticed that there was bruising on her chest, where her shirt is not covering. Clarissa continued her visual inspection and noted bruising on her shin. Clarissa asked Susan and Gene what happened. Both state that Jenna fell the night prior while getting out of bed.
Should this incident be reported to Adult Protective Services (APS)?
Yes, the incident should be reported to APS. The bruising is extensive and does not match the caretaker story.
Who should make the report?
Clarissa should make the report, as she has direct knowledge of the incident and witnessed the injuries.
What information will you need to obtain to complete the report?
Clarissa should give as much information as possible, including:
- name, address, and DOB of the victim and alleged perpetrators;
- date/time of the incident;
- information to determine the state of emergency;
- any other information helpful in establishing the substantiation of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Should Clarissa contact any other entity?
Clarissa should contact the Division of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities (DDID) and report the incident, as well as notify her supervisor, branch manager, and director of the report being filed.
What follow-up should Clarissa complete?
Clarissa should follow up with the APS worker (if accepted) 1 time per week until the investigation is completed. All information and follow-up should be documented in GFIS.
Download a copy of GField 9- Reporting of Suspected Abuse to your desktop for future reference.