A mother brings her 8-year-old daughter to the clinic for the third time in 2 months. The mother states that her daughter is very active and often falls down. The mother states that her daughter eats well, but the child's weight falls below the 10th perce
The clinic record shows the child had multiple bruises on her arms at the time of the last two visits. Today the nurse notes that the child has areas of ecchymosis on her left leg and ankle. Which action by the nurse is best?
A.
Ask the child and her mother again about the child's bruises.
B.
Question the child about her accident-prone behaviors.
C.
Speak with the child alone, asking if she feels safe at home.
D.
Teach the mother to keep a diary of what her child is eating.
ANS: C
This child's presentation is suspicious. If child abuse is suspected, the nurse should question the child privately. In all situations the nurse is legally obligated to report the abuse to the proper investigating agency.
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