Under W&I §15630, a mandated reporter who suspects physical abuse of a long-term care resident must make a TELEPHONE report:
Explanation
W&I §15630(b)(1)(A) requires immediate telephone (or via confidential internet report) notification, or as soon as practicably possible, to the local ombudsman, law enforcement, or APS depending on setting (in an LTC facility, ombudsman/law enforcement for physical abuse and serious bodily injury). A written report (form SOC 341) must follow within 2 working days. The resident's consent is NOT required. Delaying for family (c) or resident permission (a) violates the statute. Failure to report is a misdemeanor with fines up to $5,000 and possible jail time under W&I §15630(h).
Law Reference: W&I §15630(b)(1)(A); W&I §15658This 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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