Question

Child abuse and maltreatment is not limited to a particularage—it can occur in the infant, toddler, preschool, andschool-age years. Choose one of the four age groups and outline thetypes of abuse most commonly seen among children of that age. Describewarning signs and physical and emotional assessment findings the nursemay see that could indicate child abuse. Discuss cultural variationsof health practices that can be misidentified as child abuse. Describethe reporting mechanism in your state and nurse responsibilitiesrelated to the reporting of suspected child abuse. Cite source

Answer 1

Child Abuse.

The United States federal Child Abuse and Prevention Act defines child abuse and neglect as, at minimum, " any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm , sexual abuse or exploitation; or an act or failure to act, which presents an imminent risk of serious harm".

Child abuse and maltreatment is not limited to a particular age—it can occur in the infant, toddler, preschool, andschool-age years.

Abuse in School -age children: School age children ages from 6 to 12. Common form of abuse to School age children are physical, sexual , emotional and neglect.

Warning signs and Physical and emotional assessment:

Physical Abuse ;

1. Fractured bones

2.bruices and abrasions

3.dislocations

4. New and healing lacerations

5. Fear of going home

Sexual abuse;

1. Swelling and bruises in genitalia

2. Child shows difficulty for sitting and walking

3. Inappropriate interest or knowledge in sexuality

4. Recurrent infections in the urinary tract

5. Changes in academic performance

6. Pregnancy and substance addiction in Young adolescents.

Emotional abuse:

1. Low self esteem

2. Insecurity feeling

3. Social withdrawal

5. Overly affectionate towards strangers

Neglect;

1. Beggs or steels money

2. Poor growth

3. Poor hygiene

4. Inappropriate dressing while coming to school

5. Hunger

In addition to the identification of these signs and symptoms the nurse can assess the parent or caretaker . Possible Child abuse will be there in case of

Parent / Care giver

1. Denies the existence of the problems of the child or blames the child

2. Addicted to Alcohol or drugs.

3. No concern for the child

4. Acting or seems to be depressed or apathetic.

Cultural variations and child abuse

Parental behaviour is different in various culture through out the world. One practice that is offensive to some one may seem tolerable to another one. Physical and emotional closeness between parents and children that leads to life long bond is an Asian parenting perspective that includes the establishment of parental authority and child obedience. Many practices related to health in the various culture might be based on superstitions and leads to harm in chidren physically. Example: a child who is acutely ill having Christian Scientist parents may pray for his cure rather than tacking him to hospital.

Reporting mechanism and nurse's responsibility

Nurse as a key health team member can provide important services to children who are abused. Nurse' s skill in physical examination and interview will be vital for the prosecution. Nurses must report a Child Abuse not only to protect the child but to safeguard own professional status. Each state has a child abuse hotline to report the cases. Childhelp(R) having a national child abuse hotline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 1- 800-4- A-CHILD. Most state guarantee anonymity of the reporter of the child abuse.