In cases of suspected child and elder abuse, a nurse practitioner should report to:

In cases of suspected child and elder abuse, the nurse practitioner has a legal and ethical obligation to report their concerns to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and support. Reporting to social services is the correct approach because these agencies are specifically designated to handle cases of abuse and neglect.

Social services are equipped to provide the necessary intervention, resources, and protective services that both vulnerable populations like children and the elderly require. They have trained personnel dedicated to assessing the situation, ensuring the safety of the victims, and working towards potential rectification of the abuse situation.

Typically, law enforcement, represented by the police, may become involved, but the initial reporting is often made to social services since they have the mandate and expertise in managing and addressing these sensitive issues. Public health departments may have a role in the broader context of public health and safety but do not handle individual abuse cases directly. Reporting to the victim's family could further endanger the victim, as abusers are often within the family unit, and addressing the situation in this manner may compromise the victim's safety and well-being.

Therefore, reporting to social services is the correct process to ensure proper support and investigation are initiated.