If a person under your care shows unexplained bruising, what should you do?

When a person under your care shows unexplained bruising, the proper course of action is to report it to the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center. This is crucial because unexplained bruising can be a sign of potential abuse or neglect. It's essential to treat this situation with seriousness and sensitivity. Many individuals may not report or disclose potential abuse due to fear or other factors, so as a caregiver, it’s your responsibility to act in their best interest.

Reporting such incidents ensures that trained professionals can investigate the situation further, provide the necessary support and ensure the person is safe. Adults, especially those who may be vulnerable due to health or cognitive reasons, rely on their caregivers to advocate for their well-being.

The other choices suggest inaction or minimal engagement that could potentially jeopardize the individual's safety and well-being. Ignoring the issue or waiting until a later time diminishes the urgency needed to address potential harm. By contacting the reporting center, you are taking the responsible and ethical step to ensure that proper protocols are followed and that the individual's rights and safety are protected.