Question

The emergency department staff nurse is caring for a​ 6-year-old male client who sustained a fractured right radius. Upon physical​ examination, the nurse notes scattered bruising across the client​'s back. When asked what caused the​ bruising, the client silently stares at the floor. Based on physical assessment​ findings, the nurse suspects the client may be a victim of abuse. Which action is the priority for the nurse to​ implement?

>Contacting federal law enforcement officials
>Reporting the abuse to local law enforcement officials
>Notifying the immediate nurse supervisor
>Obtaining a referral to a hospital social worker

Answer 1

The priority action for the nurse is to contact local law enforcement officials to report the suspected abuse.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority action for the nurse to implement in this situation is contacting local law enforcement officials to report the suspected abuse. When a nurse suspects that a child may be a victim of abuse, it is their responsibility to report it to the appropriate authorities. Local law enforcement officials have the jurisdiction and resources to investigate the potential abuse and ensure the child's safety. By reporting the abuse, the nurse takes a crucial step in protecting the child and initiating the necessary intervention.