Tag: Child abuse

Did you know that healthcare providers are often the first line of defense for vulnerable patients? It is a legal and ethical obligation for many medical professionals to report suspected harm. So, **what is your initial responsibility if you suspect that a patient has been abused?**

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least one in seven children in the U.S. experienced abuse or neglect in the past year. As healthcare's first line of defense, knowing **what is the nurse's role in intervening in situations of abuse?** is not only an ethical duty but a legal one. Nurses are uniquely positioned to recognize the subtle and overt signs of abuse across all patient populations.

**Pediatric physical abuse (non-accidental trauma) is the second leading cause of mortality in infants and children.** Understanding **what is a non-accidental injury** is a crucial aspect of safeguarding vulnerable individuals. This guide provides comprehensive information to help recognize and differentiate inflicted harm from accidental trauma.

While no single factor guarantees abuse, research shows a clear link between certain circumstances and an increased risk of perpetrating or experiencing harm. Understanding what are three risk factors for abuse is a vital step toward recognizing and preventing violence and neglect in various contexts.