Ethical considerations of elder abuse: identifying the breach

The wound care clinician is often confronted with issues of elder abuse because pressure ulcers and other forms of skin injury coincide with this abuse. Although the legal system is explicit in defining elder abuse, the context in which cases present can be emotionally compelling and morally complicated. This article examines the current legal descriptions of elder abuse. Additionally, because of the vague nature of some cases, ethical obligations are presented in particular in the presence of certain physical manifestations such as pressure ulcer development and other forms of skin injury. A case study is presented to provide a context wherein ethical issues can be discussed. Opportunities for clinician-driven change are offered.