Adult Protective Service Practice Exam

What action is required when it is confirmed that the adult being investigated is a child?

1. Provide services to the family

2. Report to child services and close the investigation

3. Start a separate adult case

4. Continue informing the adult

The correct answer is: Report to child services and close the investigation

When it is confirmed that the adult being investigated is indeed a child, the correct action is to report to child services and close the investigation. This is because adults and children fall under different legal and protective frameworks, particularly regarding the services and protections they require. In situations involving minors, the priority shifts to the appropriate child welfare agencies that specialize in safeguarding children and ensuring their welfare. These agencies have the necessary resources and protocols in place to address the unique needs of a child and can provide specialized services tailored to minors, which adult protective services are not designed to handle. This course of action ensures that the child receives the necessary intervention from professionals who are trained to work within the child welfare system. It also allows the adult protective services case to be resolved appropriately, as the initial concern was based on the misunderstanding of the individual's age and status. This crucial step prevents any misallocation of adult protective resources while directing the case to the appropriate authorities who can take the necessary measures to protect the child's interests.