Care Certificate

250 videos, 11 hours and 6 minutes

Course Content

Physical Abuse

Video 114 of 250
2 min 29 sec
English
English
Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course or enter your email below to watch one free video.

Unlock This Video Now for FREE

This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.

Physical Abuse of Vulnerable Adults: Signs & Reporting

Profile of Potential Perpetrators

Those who inflict physical harm on vulnerable adults often share certain characteristics:

  • Relationship Status: More likely to be unmarried.
  • Living Arrangements: Typically cohabit with their victims.
  • Employment Status: Often unemployed.
  • Substance Abuse: May struggle with alcohol or drug issues.
  • Caregiver Role: Some might be caregivers to those they abuse.

Physical Indicators of Abuse

Signs that suggest potential physical mistreatment encompass:

  • Visible injuries: bruises, sprains, burns, or fractures.
  • Unusual marks: abrasions resembling rope or strap impressions.
  • Signs of trauma: unexplained hair or tooth loss.
  • Internal injuries: pain or bleeding from ears, mouth, or other body parts.
  • Patterned bruising: indicating shaking, grabbing, restraint, or possible sexual abuse.
  • Neglected injuries: wounds healing without proper treatment.

Suspicion Arising Factors

Several factors can raise the alarm about non-accidental injuries:

  • Distinct patterned injuries.
  • Inconsistent explanations for the cause of injuries.
  • Delays in seeking medical attention.
  • History of suspicious injuries or hospitalisations.
  • Usage of different medical facilities to avoid detection.

Behavioural Indicators of Abuse

Behavioural patterns that may hint at physical mistreatment include:

  • Unexplained or implausibly explained injuries.
  • Varied explanations from family about injury causes.
  • Repeated similar injuries or dubious hospital stays.
  • Procrastination in obtaining medical care for injuries.

Importance of Vigilance

It's paramount to be alert to these signs and promptly report any suspicions of abuse to the relevant authorities.