What it means
Neglect is a form of abuse and can be by a caregiver or, in older adults, self-neglect. Signs can include poor hygiene, weight loss, untreated injuries or illness, unsafe living conditions and a child often left alone. In stroke care, "unilateral neglect" has a different meaning: the client ignores one side of the body and space, usually the left.
For the nurse
Nurses are mandated reporters: report suspected neglect of a child, or of an older or dependent adult, as your state and facility require. For unilateral neglect, approach from the side the client attends to and teach them to scan the ignored side.
At a glance
| Spanish | negligencia, abandono |
|---|---|
| Also written | neglected |
Related terms
caregiver
A person who looks after someone who needs help, such as a family member, friend or paid helper.
advocate
To speak up and act for a client's rights, safety and wishes; also, a person who does this.
failure to thrive
Poor growth in a child, with weight gain well below what is expected for the child's age.