A2.10 Adult Protective Services (APS) Medical Support

Legal Authority

The APS nurse consultant/investigator (NCI) provides medically related consultation regarding vulnerable adults.

A complete, comprehensive review of medical records;
Translation of medical terminology, lab and diagnostic testing results, medications, or disease processes;
Education on community resources;
Guidance on general adult services cases related to community resources or placement considerations;
Answering general medical questions without requiring a medical record review; or
Upon request, participation in APS branch and/or regional case consultations.

The NCI may accompany the SSW with in-home or virtual visits. With consent from the adult or responsible party, the NCI may:

Evaluate the adult’s medical needs;
Make observations regarding health and safety concerns;
Perform physical assessments;
Provide medical education; or
Recommend medical interventions based on NCI assessment findings to promote the adult's health and welfare, such as emergency medical services or medical provider evaluations to prevent, diagnose, or treat health issues.

The NCI can assist the SSW in developing interview questions for medical professionals. An NCI may accompany the SSW during interviews with medical professionals.
The SSW contacts the NCI assigned to their region to initiate a consultation.

The NCI will begin the consultation with a review of the DPP-115.
Based on a review of the DPP-115, the NCI may advise the SSW on which medical records to request to assist in the investigation. If applicable, facility policies and procedures, employee training records, and internal investigation documents may be requested.
The NCI will review the records received and provide the SSW with its findings and recommendations relevant to the case and allegation(s).

For questions on which NCI is assigned to a specific region, please contact the Adult Protection Branch at DCBSAdultProtection@ky.gov