A CNA notices unexplained bruises in the shape of fingerprints on a resident's upper arm. The resident whispers, 'The night CNA grabbed me hard.' The CNA's FIRST action is to:
Explanation
Under W&I §15630, a CNA in a long-term care facility is a mandated reporter of suspected elder/dependent adult abuse. The reporting flow: report immediately to the charge nurse and administrator AND personally ensure a report is made by phone to the local LTC Ombudsman or law enforcement (immediately for physical abuse) and a written report (SOC 341) within 2 working days. Confronting the suspected abuser (d) risks evidence destruction and retaliation. Waiting (b) or gossiping (c) violates mandated reporter duty and may expose the CNA to criminal penalty under §15630(h).
Law Reference: W&I §15630; W&I §15610.07This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
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