A 4-year-old child is seen in the emergency department with a spiral f

A 4-year-old child is seen in the emergency department with a spiral fracture of the right arm. X-ray examination shows previously broken and healed bones. Which of the following is the immediate responsibility of the nurse?

a. Call social services to immediately set up foster care for the child
b. Provide information about parenting and anger management classes
c. Report the child abuse to the local legal authorities
d. Try to establish rapport and trust with the child’s family

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: C
Spiral fractures are only possible from abuse, because they require a wringing motion to occur. When working with victims of child abuse, the primary obligation of all health care providers is to protect the child. The abuse must be reported as a legal and ethical obligation.