Reporting in Florida

[Nataayy]

Recently, I was in a heated discussion with the ER physician over calling the police about a physical assault. I call when its a MVA, sexual assault, involves a child and elderly, gun shoot/stabbing, and domestic abuse. But when it is an old fashion fight and no one is hurt, I ask the pt if he/she want to press charges if they say no then I don't report it.

I found out in the past that its a waste of the police's time and my pt exam room to call when the pt does not want to. I hold the pt in the exam room until the police come (even if it hrs) just for the pt to tell the police "I don't want to talk about it" and leave.

In short, does Florida law or Florida BON require me to report a regular old fashion fight? I looked on internet and hospital protocols and did not find anything.

[thelema13]

I know at my hospital, it is protocol to report any suspected abuse. I think it is a waste of time, they never fess up to who did it and they never want to press charges.

[VICEDRN, BSN, RN]

I don't about in Florida but I would assume you are a mandatory reporter and are required to report any assault.

I will add as a side note that not reporting the assault means that "word will get out" that not every assault is reported by such and such facility and you can go there and state you don't want to talk about it and they will still treat and street you.

When I transferred to a facility with more lenient reporting standards (or enforcement), I noticed we spend a lot more time on assaults. Clearly, the patients have figured out which facilities to go to and which not to go to. I would your facility the one not to go to and report everything you hear!

[XB9S, BSN, MSN, EdD, RN, APN]

Moved to Florida Nursing for a more location specific response

[xoemmylouox, ASN, RN]

I would hope that all states mandate you report suspected abuse. Who else will be the voice of the victim?