A nurse is caring for a 7-year-old with appendicitis and multiple bruises. The nurse suspects the child is being abused. What should the nurse do?

Explanation

•The nurse should notify the physician.

•Nurses are mandated reporters and must report suspected abuse to the local authorities.

•Document the physical findings (bruises in various stages of healing) without opinions or judgment. Note any delays in treatment, inconsistencies in histories, and the names of people caring for the child during treatment.

•Questioning the mother could increase the risk of harm to the child.

•Discussing the situation with another nurse is a breach of patient confidentiality.

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