Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What action should a therapist take if an elderly client reports financial exploitation?

1. Interview the client regarding the specifics of the alleged exploitation.

2. Call APS immediately and file a written report of elder abuse within 24 hours.

3. Seek legal assistance concerning the financial exploitation.

4. Call APS and file a written report of elder abuse within 2 days.

The correct answer is: Call APS and file a written report of elder abuse within 2 days.

In situations where an elderly client reports financial exploitation, the most appropriate action is to ensure that a report is made to the appropriate authorities as swiftly as possible. Option B indicates that the therapist should call Adult Protective Services (APS) immediately and file a written report within 24 hours. This immediate response is critical because it ensures that the alleged exploitation is addressed quickly, helping to protect the client from further harm and potentially preventing the exploitation from continuing. When a therapist learns of possible elder abuse, including financial exploitation, they have an ethical and legal duty to act in the best interest of their client. This often means reporting the case to ensure that the necessary resources and investigations can be initiated to protect the vulnerable individual. Timely reporting is essential since delays can lead to further exploitation. While other options may include interviewing the client for specifics or seeking legal assistance, they do not prioritize the immediate safety and welfare of the client. Waiting to make a report or focusing on gathering more information can prolong the risk for the client. Therefore, promptly contacting APS is crucial in these situations to provide immediate intervention and support for the elderly individual facing exploitation.