What is abuse of a vulnerable adult?
Abuse of a vulnerable adult, under Washington law, is the willful action or inaction that inflicts injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation, or punishment on a vulnerable adult. It includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, mental abuse, and improper chemical, physical, or mechanical restraints.
What is neglect of a vulnerable adult?
Neglect of a vulnerable adult is defined in Washington State as a pattern of conduct or inaction by a person or entity with a duty of care that: • fails to maintain the physical or mental health of a vulnerable adult • fails to avoid or prevent physical or mental harm or pain to a vulnerable adult, or • demonstrates a serious disregard of consequences of such a magnitude as to constitute a clear and present danger to the vulnerable adult's health, welfare, or safety Neglect can result in permanent harm or disfigurement, or death.
What are the signs of vulnerable adult abuse and neglect?
Adults who are abused or neglected may suffer from: • Bedsores or pressure ulcers • Malnutrition, dehydration • Repeat falls • Fractures • Poor hygiene • Burns • Welts • Bruising • Abrasions • Lacerations • Sprained or broken bones • Head injuries • Repeat injuries • Unprescribed restraints • Over-medication or under-medication • Failure to diagnose or treat a serious medical condition • Death
