Which of the following is a common indicator of elder abuse or neglect that CNA must report?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Unexplained injuries
• C. Regular baths
• D. Improved appetite

Answer: (B)

Unexplained injuries are a red flag for potential elder abuse or neglect because injuries that residents can’t account for or that don’t match their story raise suspicion that harm may have occurred. As a CNA, notice such injuries and report them promptly to the supervising nurse and follow facility policy, documenting what you observed and any statements from the resident. This duty helps protect the resident and ensure safe care. Weight gain, regular baths, and improved appetite are not typical indicators of abuse; they do not suggest harm by a caregiver in the same way unexplained injuries do.