A 2-year-old child is rushed to the Emergency Department by very anxious parents after falling off a slide and landing on her back. On assessment, Rick Rescue, RN observes a healing abrasion to the child’s right knee, another abrasion below the chin, and small healing bruises above the right eye and left elbow. After the radiology report indicates no apparent fractures or internal injuries, the Emergency Department physician discharges the client to home with instructions for follow-up care. Rick Rescue, RN discharges the client home with the parents. What, if anything, did Rick Rescue, RN do wrong?
Explanation
Answer: A - Nurses are obligated by law to report suspected abuse to appropriate agencies or authorities. However, in this scenario, Rick Rescue, RN is correct in not suspecting or reporting abuse of this client. The minor injuries observed are common to the child’s age group. Generally, observing multiple bruises scattered across a child’s back and buttocks may be an indication of possible abuse, and warrants further assessment.
