California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What is a primary duty of a mandated reporter?

1. Must report suspected abuse

2. Must report actual abuse

3. Must report abuse told to them by a visitor

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

A primary duty of a mandated reporter is to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. This responsibility includes reporting any suspected or observed abuse. When considering the duties of a mandated reporter, it is essential to recognize that they are required to act upon reasonable suspicion of abuse, even if definitive proof is lacking. This means that if a mandated reporter suspects that abuse may be occurring based on observed signs or information they receive, they have a legal obligation to report it to the appropriate authorities. Additionally, if they have knowledge of actual abuse, it becomes imperative to report it, as failing to do so could endanger the individuals involved. This role extends also to information gained from conversations with visitors or others, as any disclosure about potential abuse should be taken seriously and reported if it raises a concern. Thus, the correct answer encompasses all aspects of the reporting responsibilities of mandated reporters, highlighting the comprehensive nature of their duty to ensure that any form of abuse is reported to protect vulnerable individuals.