Indicators of Patient Abuse and Neglect

Abuse, neglect or exploitation of a patient or resident of a care facility is a crime. Report instances of abuse to the Attorney General's Patient Abuse Toll-Free Tip Line at:

1-877-ABUSE TIP (1-877-228-7384)

Physical Abuse

• Frequent unexplained injuries or complaints of pain without obvious injury
• Burns or bruises suggesting the use of instruments, cigarettes, etc.
• Passive, withdrawn and emotionless behavior
• Lack of reaction to pain
• Injuries that appear after the person has not been seen for several days
• Patient complains of physical abuse

Sexual Abuse

• Injury to the genital area
• Difficulty in sitting or walking
• Fear of being alone with caretakers
• Patient reports a sexual assault

Neglect

• Obvious malnutrition
• Lack of personal cleanliness
• Habitually dressed in torn or dirty clothes
• Obvious fatigue and listlessness
• Begs for food or water
• In need of medical or dental care
• Left unattended for long periods
• Bed sores

Financial Abuse

• Mismanagement of personal funds
• Lost, stolen or destroyed property