A nurse in a hospital setting assesses an older adult and is unsure if the assessment data warrant notification to the authorities for elder abuse. Which action is most appropriate for the nurse at this time?

When a nurse is faced with uncertainty about potential elder abuse based on assessment data, following hospital protocol for reporting is the most appropriate action. Healthcare facilities typically have established guidelines and policies to address suspected abuse, ensuring that concerns are evaluated by appropriate authorities trained to handle these sensitive situations.

By adhering to these protocols, the nurse contributes to the protection and safety of the older adult while also following legal and ethical responsibilities. This process often involves notifying designated personnel or departments who are skilled in investigating such claims, thus safeguarding the well-being of the patient and ensuring that their rights are upheld.

Other options may not address the situation adequately. Simply documenting findings and doing nothing does not take action on the potential risk to the patient. Discussing the findings with the family before reporting might compromise the integrity of the investigation and could also put the older adult at further risk. Making a personal judgment before reporting could lead to overlooking important indicators of abuse or not taking necessary action based on biases or assumptions. Hence, following established protocol is crucial for professional accountability and patient protection.