Question

A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a school-age child who was brought in by their parents and has scald burns to both hands and wrists. The nurse suspects physical abuse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a) Document the findings and discharge the child
b) Initiate a child protective services referral
c) Ask the parents for their version of the events
d) Apply burn ointment and dress the wounds

Answer 1

The nurse should initiate a child protective services referral in the case of suspected physical abuse, while also providing medical treatment and documenting findings.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a situation where a nurse suspects physical abuse of a child with scald burns to both hands and wrists, the appropriate action would be to initiate a child protective services referral. This action is critical to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the child and is a legal mandate for healthcare professionals in many jurisdictions. While providing medical care for the child is essential, including applying burn ointment and dressing the wounds, it is also necessary to document the findings meticulously. In addition, the nurse can ask the parents for their version of events, but the initiation of a protective services referral should not be delayed by this inquiry. The nurse's priority is to address the immediate medical needs and the potential safety risks to the child.