In cases of suspected abuse or neglect, what should be your FIRST priority?

In cases of suspected abuse or neglect, the first priority should always be to ensure your own safety. This means assessing the environment for potential dangers and understanding the dynamics at play before taking any further actions. If the scene is unsafe, approaching the patient or providing care can lead to additional harm to yourself or the patient.

Ensuring personal safety is crucial in these situations because if you become a victim or are unable to perform your duties effectively, you will be unable to help the patient. After ensuring that the area is secure, appropriate actions can be taken, such as summoning law enforcement, conducting an assessment, or attempting to remove the patient from harm's way. Prioritizing your safety first creates a stable environment in which proper assessment and intervention can be carried out without added risk.