What is the definition of abandonment in caregiving?

The concept of abandonment in caregiving specifically refers to the act of deserting a vulnerable adult without providing the necessary care and support they require. This can manifest in various ways, such as leaving a patient unattended for an extended period or ending a caregiver-client relationship without proper transition or arrangements for the client's continued care. By failing to ensure the well-being and safety of the individual, abandonment poses significant risks to their health and emotional stability.

The other options focus on different types of misconduct or negligence in caregiving. For instance, stealing from a vulnerable adult pertains to financial exploitation, while causing pain or injury relates to abuse, and failing to report changes in a client's condition falls under neglect. While all these actions are detrimental and undermine the integrity of caregiving, they do not encapsulate the specific legal and ethical dimensions associated with abandonment.