Barb works in a private group home. Jamie, a competent 20 year-old resident with cerebral palsy, has been staying with his parents for the past week. When he returns in the evening with his mother, Barb notices that he seems nervous and quieter than usual. The support worker, while helping him get ready for bed, notices bruises on his arms and legs. His mother explains he fell at home. Concerned, the support worker alerts Barb. After assessing Jamie and talking with him privately, Barb believes he may have been physically abused. Barb knows she must make sure Jamie is safe and get him any needed medical assessment and treatment.
Since Jamie is a vulnerable adult, she believes he is at risk of harm. She wonders what her professional, legal and ethical responsibilities are.