Final answer:
In cases of suspected child abuse, a physical examination along with X-rays or a CT scan is often performed. For pregnant individuals, an ultrasound is the safest imaging technique as it poses no radiation risk to the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diagnosis of Suspected Child Abuse and Safe Imaging During Pregnancy
In the event of suspected child abuse, a physical examination is typically conducted first. This can be followed by imaging studies such as X-rays or a CT scan if there is concern for injuries that are not apparent on physical examination alone. However, for a pregnant patient, the ultrasound is the safest imaging technique as it is the least invasive and uses no ionizing radiation, which could be harmful to the fetus.
Each imaging technique has its own uses. For instance, a CT scan can provide detailed images of bone fractures that are indicative of abuse. An MRI is useful for assessing soft tissue injuries, but is not the initial choice for suspected abuse due to the longer time required to perform the scan. For a pregnant individual, ultrasounds are preferred for monitoring the health of the fetus throughout pregnancy.