Page 32 - 2020 ARE eGuide for Clinical at Nonhospital Sites

Abuse: Identifying and Reporting

All patients must be assessed for their
physical, psychological, and social needs
during the admission process and at
regular intervals as needed. Included in
this assessment is the identification of
possible victims of abuse.

Reporting Requirements:

The Florida Abuse Hotline (800-96-ABUSE or 800-962-2873) must be notified of
any abuse involving children, disabled adults or elderly adults.
The police department is to be notified in the following circumstances: sexual
abuse of a minor or disabled person and assault or injury due to gun, knife, or other
weapon.

In the event of a rape of a competent adult, the police are called only if the victim
gives permission. If the abuse hotline is called, the Department of Children and
Family (DCF), typically coordinates the investigative process, including notifying the
police.

All suspected cases of domestic violence should be referred to Social Work
Services for further investigation. The abuse hotline is notified only if a child has
witnessed the abuse. Notify Social Work and Risk Management for all cases of
actual or suspected abuse.