Patient and Family Centered Care Nursing Related

Review Patient and Family Centered Care Nursing related questions and content

What is a nurses legal responsibility if child abuse or neglect is suspected?

  • A. Discuss the findings with the childs parent and health care provider.
  • B. Document the observation and suspicion in the medical record.
  • C. Report the suspicion according to state regulations.
  • D. Continue the assessment.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Each state has specific regulations for reporting child abuse that must be observed. The nurse is a mandated reporter. The reporter does not need to be sure that abuse or neglect occurred, only that it is suspected. Speculation should not be documented, only the facts.